In a striking turn of events for both Hollywood and international political storytelling, filming has officially commenced for the much-anticipated political thriller titled Kremlin Wizard, directed by Olivier Assayas. The story centers on British actor Jude Law, who takes on the role of Vladimir Putin, the Russian president whose political maneuvers have resonated throughout recent history. The first photos from the set, which surfaced on March 25, 2025, via Novaya Gazeta Europe on social media, depict Law transformed into the character of Putin, showcasing intricate makeup and tailored attire to embody the controversial figure.
As reported by the Novaya Gazeta Europe, Law's portrayal aims to delve deeper into the life and political climate of the 1990s in Russia. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Italian-Swiss writer Giuliano da Empoli, a book that explores the career of a fictional character named Vadim Baranov. Baranov, initially a television producer, is depicted as he transitions into a political strategist for a then-rising Putin, who was not yet the president.
This cinematic venture promises to unravel not just Baranov's story but also the darker secrets behind the regime that he purportedly helped build. The character of Baranov is inspired by Vladislav Surkov, a significant figure in Putin's administration, often referred to as the 'architekt' of various political strategies, including the controversial annexation of Crimea.
Surkov is an interesting subject in the realm of Russian politics; having begun his career in advertising, he quickly transitioned into public relations consulting, engaging with the government as early as March 1992. His ascent continued, culminating in a pivotal role as the deputy head of the RF President's Administration by 1999, where he became one of Putin's closest advisors.
In the wake of a turbulent political landscape in Russia between 2011 and 2013, Surkov was pivotal in establishing the United Russia party and fostering the pro-Kremlin youth movement 'Nashi', which sought to quell protests against the government. His name is also connected with the term 'Surkov propaganda', reflecting his influence on forming public perception regarding state policies.
The film aims to present a layered narrative, intertwining Baranov's fictional experiences with the real historical context underpinning the rise of Putin's power. Critics and audiences alike are poised to engage with these dramatic interpretations of actual events during a crucial period for Russian politics.
As filming unfolds in the scenic backdrop of Latvia, there is palpable excitement about how Assayas will bring the complexities of this era to the screen. With Jude Law taking center stage, the viewer's anticipation grows, especially with the emotional weight such a role carries.
This portrayal is particularly relevant today, as the global perception of Russia continues to evolve in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions and internal political dynamics, largely influenced by the very people depicted in Assayas's narrative.
Thus, Kremlin Wizard not only serves as an entertainment piece but also as a potent exploration into the systems of power and manipulation that characterize modern governance. As the film progresses, audiences will be reflecting on the implications of the story and the relevance it holds in contemporary discourse surrounding Russian leadership.
While Kremlin Wizard marks another entry into the realm of political cinema, it is crucial to observe how directors and storytellers shape narratives around living figures like Putin and historical counterparts like Surkov. This film, with its origins rooted in speculative fiction, aims to shed light on narratives that are often lost amidst the chaotic dance of politics.
As the narrative unfolds, so too will the discussion on how fiction reflects and impacts reality. As Jude Law brings Putin to life, audiences may gain insights not just into the character of a man, but the intricate machine of politics that defines his tenure. The film stands as a reminder of the power of storytelling in comprehending the complexities of our world.
