Jude Law Transforms into Vladimir Putin in ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’: A Must-See Debut at the Venice Film Festival

Jude Law Plays Putin in “The Wizard of the Kremlin”

Jude Law takes on a bold role as Vladimir Putin in Olivier Assayas’ new film, “The Wizard of the Kremlin.” The movie premiered at the Venice Film Festival, stirring excitement and curiosity.

Before the premiere, Law expressed that he approached this role with care. He noted that he wasn’t worried about backlash. “I felt safe with Olivier,” he said, highlighting the thoughtfulness behind the storytelling. He emphasized that the film aims for depth, not controversy.

Law transformed himself through prosthetics, stating that his portrayal fits into a larger narrative about power and politics. He clarified, “We weren’t trying to define anything about anyone.”

The film is based on Giuliano da Empoli’s popular book, chronicling Putin’s rise to power alongside a fictional adviser, played by Paul Dano. This storyline unfolds amidst the chaos of post-Soviet Russia, with a focus on political strategy and manipulation.

Dano’s character draws inspiration from Vladislav Surkov, a real-life political strategist who significantly influenced Putin’s regime. Surkov resigned as deputy prime minister in 2013, a pivotal moment in Russian politics.

Dano described his role as “the wizard” working behind the scenes to shape political landscapes. As tensions rise due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict, the film is poised to spark discussions about modern politics.

Assayas shared his vision, saying the film reflects the complex nature of 21st-century politics. He pointed out that while the film is set in the past, its themes resonate today. “What’s happening is not just terrifying, it’s more alarming because we haven’t found solutions,” he remarked.

Although the book was written before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, da Empoli affirmed its relevance. “It still speaks volumes today,” he said.

This film is also significant as it marks Assayas’ debut in English-language filmmaking. Notably, Alicia Vikander co-stars as Dano’s character’s on-again-off-again girlfriend. Assayas explained that her role was designed to add a moral perspective to a male-dominated narrative. “We need to show the women who inhabit this world,” Vikander stated.

The production took place in Latvia since filming in Russia was not possible. Assayas described the film as more than a political commentary. He suggested it mirrors the current climate of deception and manipulation in politics.

“The Wizard of the Kremlin” competes for top honors alongside other celebrated films at the festival. While a North American release date isn’t confirmed, actor Jeffrey Wright, who plays a journalist, argues for the film’s importance. He highlighted a crucial message: the aspiration for betterment must not be lost, or we risk falling into the patterns depicted in the film.

As the discourse surrounding this film grows, it underscores a critical examination of how power operates today, inviting viewers to reflect on the political landscape we navigate.

For more on the Venice Film Festival, check out AP News.

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Paul Dano, Vadim Baranov, Jude Law, Alicia Vikander, Vladimir Putin, Jeffrey Wright, Olivier Assayas, Movies, Giuliano da Empoli, Vladislav Sourkov, Russia, Fairs and festivals, General news, Venice Film Festival, Politics, Europe, Russia Ukraine war, Entertainment, World news, Ukraine, Latvia, World News