Jude Law has taken on the controversial role of Vladimir Putin in The Wizard of the Kremlin, a political thriller by director Olivier Assayas that premiered at the Venice Film Festival on 31 August 2025.
Law embodies the Russian leader by immersing himself in Putin’s body language, scowl, and mannerisms, delivering an unsettlingly accurate portrayal. Nonetheless, he avoided a direct impersonation, opting instead to retain his own voice and inflect it with subtle physical cues, foreshadowing a younger, more nuanced version of Putin.
At Venice, Law made a point of dismissing fears that the role might invite backlash, emphasising that the film aims to portray a complex character within a larger political story.
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Adapted from Giuliano da Empoli’s bestselling novel, the film follows fictional spin doctor Vadim Baranov, played by Paul Dano, who helps elevate Putin to power in post-Soviet Russia. The ensemble cast also includes Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, Jeffrey Wright, and Will Keen.
The film was met with a strong response at its Venice premiere, earning nearly a 12-minute standing ovation and entering the main competition for the Golden Lion.
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