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The political machinations surrounding Vladimir Putin and Vladislav Surkov have become the subject of a new film, The Wizard of the Kremlin, directed by Olivier Assayas. The film, starring Paul Dano, Jude Law, and Alicia Vikander, was notably produced in Latvia, a decision that has drawn scrutiny, as reported by Ukrainian journalist Anna Korjagina in Le Monde. This occurred as the world nears the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
A Film Born of Political Context
The Wizard of the Kremlin premiered in the main competition at the Venice Film Festival last autumn. Initial reactions describe the film as somewhat unfocused. The narrative centres on Vadim Baranov, a young, ambitious television worker—a character based on Vladislav Surkov—and his strategies concerning Kremlin public relations and Putin’s policies, spanning from the late 1990s to the 2014 annexation of Crimea.
Echoes of Familiar Narratives
The film is based on a widely-read novel by Italian author Giuliano da Empoli, blending fiction with factual elements. Emanuel Carrère, a writer well-versed in Russian culture, co-wrote the screenplay, having previously collaborated with Kirill Serebrennikov on Limonov (2024), a film about the controversial politician and poet Eduard Limonov. While both films share connections—partial production in Latvia and a focus on figures within the Russian cultural and political landscape—Assayas’s position regarding Russia and its politics is described as clearer.
Stylistic Choices and Potential
Assayas, known for his politically-charged thrillers, presents The Wizard of the Kremlin as a series of sketches. The film suffers from abrupt shifts in plot, failing to linger on any single storyline, despite its ensemble cast. Assayas’s signature style, reminiscent of his elegant Irma Vep (1996), appears diluted, leaning towards the laconic aesthetic of early 2000s British television series and the industrial areas of Riga.
A Missed Opportunity?
The film touches upon events of the last two decades and Putin’s actions, occasionally romanticizing the “chernukha” – a Russian term for gritty, criminal subculture – and briefly featuring Latvian actors, with Andris Keišs portraying Evgeny Prigozhin. The film could have benefited from a multi-episode format, potentially attracting a wider Western European audience seeking a summary of Russian politics, albeit one lacking nuance.
Other Films in Focus
Dārta Ceriņa recommends several other recent releases. North South Man Woman (2025), directed by Morten Trovik and Suna Kim, explores cultural differences between North and South Korea, capitalism, communism, and gender dynamics. Is This Thing On? (2025), Bradley Cooper’s latest directorial effort starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern, delves into the complexities of divorce. Finally, No Other Choice (2025), by Park Chan-wook, is described as a compelling satire with a standout performance by Lee Byung-hun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central theme of The Wizard of the Kremlin?
The film explores the political strategies and machinations surrounding Vladimir Putin and Vladislav Surkov, focusing on the manipulation of public relations and the shaping of political narratives.
Where was The Wizard of the Kremlin produced?
The film was produced in Latvia, a decision that prompted scrutiny and distancing from some industry professionals, as reported by Anna Korjagina in Le Monde.
Who are some of the other films recommended alongside The Wizard of the Kremlin?
Dārta Ceriņa recommends North South Man Woman, Is This Thing On?, and No Other Choice.
Given the complex political backdrop and the film’s fragmented narrative, how might audiences interpret the message Assayas intends to convey about power and influence within the Kremlin?