The OpenAI Board Drama is Reportedly Turning into a Movie
The tumultuous events at OpenAI in late 2023, which saw co-founder and CEO Sam Altman briefly ousted and then swiftly reinstated, are reportedly being adapted into a movie. The film, tentatively titled “Artificial,” is in development at Amazon MGM Studios and promises to dramatize the high-stakes power struggles and internal conflicts that gripped the AI company during that period.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Luca Guadagnino, the acclaimed director behind “Call Me by Your Name” and “Challengers,” is in negotiations to direct the film. The studio is also reportedly eyeing a star-studded cast, with Andrew Garfield being considered for the role of Sam Altman. Monica Barbaro (“A Complete Unknown”) is in talks to portray former CTO Mira Murati, and Yura Borisov (“Anora”) is being considered for the part of Ilya Sutskever, the co-founder who spearheaded Altman’s removal.
The screenplay is reportedly penned by “Saturday Night Live” writer Simon Rich, suggesting that the film may incorporate comedic elements. This approach could be fitting, given the often-absurd nature of the AI landscape and the dramatic turn of events at OpenAI.
In November 2023, the OpenAI board dismissed Sam Altman, citing a loss of trust in his leadership. However, following intense negotiations and public pressure, Altman was reinstated as CEO just five days later. The rapid reversal highlighted the complex dynamics within the company and the broader AI industry.
The film will likely explore the underlying tensions between prioritizing rapid technological advancement and ensuring responsible AI development, which were reportedly at the heart of the conflict.
While casting decisions are not yet final, “Artificial” has the potential to be a compelling and insightful look into one of the most dramatic episodes in the history of AI. The film’s reception will be interesting to watch, especially given the increasing awareness and use of AI tools like ChatGPT among the general public.
