Ex-OpenAI Engineer Finds Filmmaking More Fulfilling Than AI Coding
Kasra Kyanzadeh spent two months at OpenAI as a self-described experiment. He concluded that AI coding felt isolating and mentally exhausting. He left to pursue a career in filmmaking.
Kasra Kyanzadeh’s brief tenure at OpenAI was framed by him as a deliberate test of the field’s appeal. He found the daily reality of AI coding to be solitary and draining, a stark contrast to the collaborative, expressive work he now seeks. His departure after just two months highlights a growing tension between high-pressure technical roles and personal well-being.
The shift from artificial intelligence to filmmaking underscores a broader pattern among tech workers reassessing their priorities. For Kyanzadeh, the move represents a search for tangible, human-centered output rather than abstract model improvements. His experience suggests that even prestigious engineering positions can fail to provide lasting fulfillment when they lack social connection and creative variety.
This story could resonate with professionals in demanding tech sectors, who may see their own burnout reflected in Kyanzadeh’s choice. It may encourage more workers to weigh mental health against lucrative salaries, potentially influencing hiring and retention practices. If such exits become common, companies could face pressure to redesign roles with more collaboration and creative autonomy, though the impact remains speculative for now.