Neon Acquires ‘Artificial’ After Amazon MGM Dropped It

Neon, an independent distributor, has obtained the rights to the film “Artificial” directed by Luca Guadagnino. This acquisition follows a decision by Amazon MGM Studios to drop the nearly completed $40 million production. The film features Andrew Garfield portraying Sam Altman and focuses on the days surrounding Altman’s 2023 firing and reinstatement as OpenAI’s chief executive.

Amazon’s move to shelve the film surprised many, especially after its announcement of a $50 billion investment in OpenAI earlier this year. The company stated that “Artificial” would benefit from being released by a different studio. Neon plans to release the film within the year and aims to have it compete in this year’s Oscar race. The cast also includes Monica Barbaro, Yura Borisov, and Mark Rylance, with Ike Barinholtz playing Elon Musk.

Earlier this year, Amazon announced an extensive multiyear partnership with OpenAI. Despite their strong ties, Amazon MGM decided to sell the film to place it in a new home. Neon has a strong track record during awards seasons, having backed Oscar winners like “Parasite.” The company also supports films that have won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival for the last seven years.

Neon did not reveal how much it paid for the worldwide rights to “Artificial.” However, in a statement, the studio emphasized its dedication to collaborating with visionary filmmakers and delivering ambitious films to global audiences.