Actor Jude Law takes on the role of Russian President Vladimir Putin in Assayas' latest cinematic project.
In the world of cinema, anticipation is building for Olivier Assayas' English language debut, "The Wizard of the Kremlin." The film, set to premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival, is a captivating adaptation of Giuliano da Empoli's bestselling book.
Starring alongside Alicia Vikander and Jude Law is Paul Dano, who plays the role of Vadim Baranov, a character inspired by the real political strategist Vladislav Sourkov. The story unfolds against the backdrop of contemporary Russia, rooted in real, contemporary events, and is partially set in the early 1990s amid post-Soviet chaos.
"The Wizard of the Kremlin" is not primarily a political film, but a thought-provoking exploration of politics and the perversity of its methods. Olivier Assayas, the film's director, clarified in a director's statement that the film is a reflection on modern politics and the smoke screens behind which it hides.
The film's plot may provoke conversations due to Russia's ongoing three-year war in Ukraine. However, Assayas emphasised that the film is not about the rise of one man or the force with which power is imposed, but about modern politics.
The production of "The Wizard of the Kremlin" took place in Latvia due to the inability to film in Russia. The film is competing in the main competition at the Venice Film Festival, alongside titles such as "Frankenstein," "Bugonia," "The Voice of Hind Rajab," "La Grazia," and "No Other Choice."
Winners of the Venice Film Festival, including acting and directing awards, will be announced on Sept. 6. With Alicia Vikander, Jude Law, and Paul Dano delivering stellar performances, "The Wizard of the Kremlin" promises to be a film that will leave a lasting impact.
