Amazon Drops Luca Guadagnino’s Sam Altman Biopic
Amazon has stopped the distribution of the Sam Altman biopic Artificial, directed by Luca Guadagnino, according to reporting by Matthew Belloni. Sources cited by Belloni state the decision stems from the film’s negative depiction of the OpenAI founder and a recent $50 billion investment agreement between Amazon and OpenAI.
Why did Amazon stop distributing Artificial?
Mike Hopkins, the head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, decided to halt distribution after viewing an early version of the film, according to Matthew Belloni of the Puck newsletter. Sources internal to Amazon told Belloni that the final product deviated from the original script.
These sources described the finished film as darker than expected and noted that it presents Altman in a negative light. The move comes shortly after Amazon announced a $50 billion investment in OpenAI to improve the company’s artificial intelligence models.
What is the plot of the Sam Altman biopic?
The film, titled Artificial, focuses on the events of 2023 when Sam Altman was fired and subsequently rehired by OpenAI. Andrew Garfield stars as the OpenAI founder.
The movie was originally scheduled for a 2027 release. It aims to chronicle the internal turmoil and leadership shifts that defined that period for the AI company.
How does this affect the relationship between Amazon and Luca Guadagnino?
An Amazon executive told Belloni that the company maintains its respect for Guadagnino. The studio expressed hope that its professional relationship with the director will continue.
Amazon has a history of collaborating with Guadagnino, having previously produced and distributed films such as Challengers and After the Hunt.
What happens next for the film?
Because Amazon has withdrawn as the distributor, the film may need to seek a new studio or streaming platform to reach audiences. A possible next step could involve Guadagnino seeking independent financing or a different major distributor.
The film’s release date of 2027 could be affected if a new distribution partner is not secured quickly. It is likely that the final cut of the movie will remain a point of contention if the negative portrayal of Altman persists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is starring as Sam Altman in Artificial?
Andrew Garfield plays the role of the OpenAI founder.
Why did Mike Hopkins decide to stop the distribution?
According to sources cited by Matthew Belloni, Hopkins made the decision after seeing a version of the film that was darker than the script and portrayed Altman negatively.
What is the timeline for the film’s release?
The film was expected to be released in 2027.
How should studios balance corporate partnerships with creative freedom in biographical films?