In an ambitious move, Jude Law is set to play Russian President Vladimir Putin in 'The Wizard of the Kremlin,' a compelling examination of power and propaganda in post-Soviet Russia.
- January 11, 2025
AceShowbiz - Jude Law is preparing to take on on one of his most challenging roles yet: portraying Russian President Vladimir Putin in Olivier Assayas' upcoming film, "The Wizard of the Kremlin."
The movie, based on Giuliano da Empoli's bestselling book, is set during the early 1990s, a critical period following the collapse of the Soviet Union when Putin began his climb to power.
Speaking with Deadline, Law acknowledged the enormity of the task before him, highlighting the emotional and psychological weight attached to playing such a controversial figure.
"I say that hesitatingly because I haven't really started work on it yet. I mean, I have, but at the moment it looks like an Everest to climb, so I'm in the foothills looking up thinking, 'Oh Christ, what have I said?' That's often how I feel whilst I say yes," Law explained.
The narrative follows protagonist Vadim Baranov, an artist-turned-TV producer, played by Paul Dano. Baranov becomes a key player in crafting and manipulating public perceptions as Putin's "spin doctor" during the politician's early career.
As he blurs the lines between truth and propaganda, his love for the free-minded Ksenia, played by Alicia Vikander, poses a potential escape from the dangerous game he finds himself entangled in.
Directed by the critically acclaimed Assayas, who previously won the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Director with his 2016 film, "Personal Shopper," the film is expected to capture significant attention on the festival and awards circuits due to its subject matter. The inclusion of a star-studded cast that also features Zach Galifianakis and Tom Sturridge adds further allure.
Given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the film's release and reception are timely and poignant. As of December 31, 2024, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has reported over 40,000 civilian casualties in Ukraine, with more than 12,000 killed and 28,000 injured, underscoring the relevance of the film's themes.
However, "The Wizard of the Kremlin" is unlikely to see a release in Russia due to its critical portrayal of the Russian President. Since March 2022, major studios have ceased releasing films in Russia.
As Law gears up for the colossal task of bringing Vladimir Putin to life on screen, audiences can anticipate a film that is not only a powerful narrative but also a reflective commentary on the dynamics of power, media, and political manipulation.
