Cooper Koch Joins Luca Guadagnino’s Star-Studded ‘Artificial’ at Amazon MGM Studios

Cooper Koch, celebrated for his breakout role as Erik Menendez in the Emmy-nominated series "Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story," has been confirmed to join the cast of "Artificial," the highly anticipated new film from visionary director Luca Guadagnino. The announcement was made earlier this week, with Koch starring alongside Andrew Garfield and "Anora" breakout Yura Borisov in the Amazon MGM Studios production .

Koch’s addition to "Artificial" marks another milestone in his rising career. His portrayal of Erik Menendez, which earned him a Golden Globe nomination and global recognition, was lauded for its nuanced exploration of trauma and identity, themes that deeply resonated with LGBTQ+ viewers and critics alike . Koch’s previous work includes the acclaimed horror film "They/Them," which focused on LGBTQ+ experiences at a conversion camp, and his presence in "Artificial" is seen by many as a sign of increasing queer visibility in major studio films .

Luca Guadagnino, renowned for his LGBTQ+ inclusive storytelling in films like "Call Me by Your Name" and "We Are Who We Are," is directing and producing "Artificial." The film is described as a comedic drama set within the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, with a script by "Saturday Night Live" writer Simon Rich .

Official plot details remain closely guarded. However, multiple sources indicate that "Artificial" may draw inspiration from the real-world 2023 leadership tumult at OpenAI, when CEO Sam Altman was abruptly fired and then rehired within days—a high-profile event that captured public fascination and raised questions about power, ethics, and responsibility in AI development . Neither Amazon MGM Studios nor Guadagnino have confirmed this angle, maintaining an air of secrecy around the project’s narrative .

This blend of real-life tech drama and comedic storytelling is expected to offer a fresh perspective on the intersection of technology, identity, and power. For LGBTQ+ audiences, the project’s creative team—led by Guadagnino, a director known for centering queer experiences—adds an extra layer of anticipation and representation.

Cooper Koch’s casting is especially significant within the context of LGBTQ+ media representation. His career choices continue to challenge stereotypes and expand the range of queer narratives in mainstream cinema. Guadagnino’s films have long been praised for their complex, authentic portrayals of queer characters, often set against backdrops of societal change and self-discovery. The involvement of Andrew Garfield, who has previously played LGBTQ+ roles on stage and screen, further amplifies the film’s resonance with diverse audiences .

For many in the LGBTQ+ community, "Artificial" is shaping up to be more than just a star-driven comedy drama—it promises to continue Hollywood’s gradual shift toward more inclusive, multifaceted storytelling. The project’s focus on artificial intelligence and corporate intrigue signals a willingness to engage with contemporary social issues that impact all communities, including LGBTQ+ people working in tech and entertainment.

"Artificial" is produced by Simon Rich, David Heyman, Jeffrey Clifford, and Jennifer Fox of Heyday Films, bringing together a team with a track record for both critical and commercial success . The film’s combination of high-profile talent, timely subject matter, and LGBTQ+ inclusive leadership has generated significant early buzz across industry circles.

Filming is expected to commence later this year, with more details about the cast and plot anticipated in the coming months. As Hollywood continues to grapple with questions of diversity, representation, and the social impact of its stories, "Artificial" stands out as a project to watch—particularly for LGBTQ+ moviegoers eager for authentic, affirming narratives.

Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available about this groundbreaking new project.