Jude Law’s Putin Portrayal in ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’

Jude Law portrays a young Vladimir Putin in the new political thriller. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival this weekend. It is titled The Wizard of the Kremlin. Director Olivier Assayas adapts the award-winning novel.

The movie dramatizes Putin’s ruthless rise to power. Law stars alongside Paul Dano and Alicia Vikander. The project has generated significant buzz and discussion for its timely subject matter.

Jude Law Embraces Complex Putin Role Without Prosthetic Mask

Jude Law discussed his approach to playing the Russian leader. He did not use heavy prosthetics for the role. Law worked with hair and makeup to find a visual familiarity.

He also chose not to use a Russian accent. Law spoke in his natural voice throughout the film. He joked that a great wig can be transformative for a character.

Law explained the challenge of portraying Putin. He described the leader’s public persona as a mask that gives little away. The actor focused on feeling a lot internally while showing very little externally.

The Wizard of the Kremlin Explores Rise of Modern Autocracy

The film is based on Giuliano da Empoli’s novel. Paul Dano plays Vadim Baranov, a spin doctor for the Kremlin. His character is inspired by the real-life figure Vladislav Surkov.

Alicia Vikander plays Baranov’s lover, Ksenia. She serves as his moral compass. The story spans the 1990s and 2000s in Russia.

Director Olivier Assayas said the film is about modern politics. He called it a story about how 21st-century politics were invented. The movie examines the dangerous rise of authoritarian leaders.

The situation in the world today is terrifying according to Assayas. He said the film uses Putin’s story as a specific case study. The themes apply to many current authoritarian figures.

Jude Law’s performance as Vladimir Putin is a central talking point from the Venice Film Festival. The Wizard of the Kremlin offers a chilling look at the mechanics of power. The film arrives as global tensions with autocratic regimes continue to escalate.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is The Wizard of the Kremlin about?

The film is a political thriller about Vladimir Putin’s rise. It follows a propaganda mastermind who helps him. The story is based on an award-winning novel.

Is Jude Law’s character based on a real person?

Yes, Law plays a younger version of Vladimir Putin. The character is depicted from the 1990s to the 2000s. It shows his calculated ascent to ultimate power.

Who does Paul Dano play in the film?

Paul Dano plays Vadim Baranov, a Kremlin spin doctor. The character is inspired by real political strategist Vladislav Surkov. He becomes known as Putin’s “wizard”.

Why did Jude Law not use a Russian accent?

Director Olivier Assayas did not want an impersonation. Law aimed for a familiar portrayal without a prosthetic mask. The choice was a deliberate artistic decision.

When will the film be released widely?

A global release date has not yet been announced. The movie just premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Distribution deals are likely being finalized.