Luca Guadagnino's upcoming film Artificial is facing an unexpected rejection from buyers. The acclaimed Italian director, known for films such as Call Me by Your Name and Bones & All, helmed the movie, which stars Andrew Garfield alongside a star-studded cast. The project garnered much hype when it was announced in June 2025.

However, the film has reportedly been passed over by several major studios. Amid the rejection, the early screening of the movie has sparked mixed reactions.

Amazon was originally set to be the home of the film Artificial, which was announced in June 2025. However, the studio unexpectedly dropped the project. The decision came after Amazon signed a new deal with OpenAI. As per Page Six's Hollywood sources, Amazon's decision to drop the film ultimately came down to personal taste rather than any other issue.

“There wasn’t some grand conspiracy at work,” the comment read.

Artificial has already been screened for test audiences and several potential buyers, as revealed by PageSix. However, major studios, including Netflix, A24, Warner Bros., and Focus Features, all declined to acquire it. Mubi came close to buying the film but reportedly pulled out at the last minute. Reports that several other studios had already passed on the project are said to have prompted Mubi to lower its offer and ultimately reconsider the deal.

As per World of Reel, the film's test screenings also received mixed reactions. Many viewers reportedly found the first hour slow and underwhelming, though they felt the film picked up momentum in the second half. Puck's Matt Belloni shared that one potential buyer described it as "grim" and raised thought-provoking questions.

Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Artificial’ Ft. Andrew Garfield Struggles to Land Home as Netflix, and More Shrug Off

With so much chatter around the project, what is the film actually about?

The plot of Artificial has not yet been officially revealed. However, as per sources (Deadline), the film is based on the events of 2023, when Sam Altman was suddenly fired and then reinstated as OpenAI's CEO just a few days later. The movie is said to be a comedy.

However, based on reactions from critics who attended early screenings, the film may also take a darker, more thought-provoking approach than expected. It remains to be seen whether a buyer will eventually acquire the project. As per World of Reel, Artificial could make its debut at a film festival in 2026, with the Venice Film Festival as a possible premiere venue.

Amazon Dumps a Near Complete Sam Altman Movie Starring Andrew Garfield, Now Up for Grabs in Market

What do you think Andrew Garfield's film, Artificial? Let us know in the comments.