Andrew Garfield takes on the role of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in the upcoming biopic "Artificial," directed by Luca Guadagnino. The first trailer for the film, which centers on Altman's controversial firing and rehiring from OpenAI in 2023, was released on Tuesday.
The casting and subject matter have already divided audiences. Some social media users have expressed skepticism about the need for a biopic focused on Altman's brief tenure as CEO, while others noted Garfield's previous role in "The Social Network," a film about Facebook's founding. One commenter remarked, "Bro gets to star in a biopic about both Facebook and Open AI." Another added, "Andrew Garfield in the two most pivotal and scathing films about tech in the 21st century. Legend."
"Artificial" faced production challenges, including being dropped by distributor Amazon MGM Studios shortly after Amazon announced a $50 billion deal with OpenAI. The film was reportedly passed on by several distributors, including Netflix, A24, and Warner Bros, before being acquired by Neon.
Garfield also recently discussed his role in "The Uprising: The Rise of Robin Hood," a period film about the 1381 Peasants' Revolt. During a Q&A, he stated, "I hope that if any billionaires watch it, they're scared s***less." This comment drew criticism online, with some pointing out Garfield's own substantial earnings, including an estimated $5 million for his role as Altman in "Artificial."
Garfield's net worth is reportedly around $16 million as of 2026. His earlier notable roles include "Never Let Me Go" and playing Spider-Man in "The Amazing Spider-Man" franchise.