The Wizard of the Kremlin

The Wizard of the Kremlin is a 156‑minute political thriller‑dark comedy that takes you straight into the chaos of early 1990s Russia. It follows Vadim Baranov, a bright young artist who morphs into a powerful spin‑doctor at the heart of the new Russian government. As the country teeters between Soviet collapse and a fledgling federation, Vadim finds himself shaping the image of a rising KGB agent—Vladimir Putin, played by Jude Law—while trying to keep his own ambitions in check. The story is a satirical look at how truth and manipulation blur when power is on the line, and it’s all set against the backdrop of a nation in flux.

The film is based on Giuliano da Empoli’s 2022 novel and was adapted by director Olivier Assayas and writer Emmanuel Carrère. It premiered in the main competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on 31 August 2025, where it earned a Golden Lion nomination. Production wrapped in March 2025 in Riga, Latvia, and the movie is a joint effort by Curiosa Films and Gaumont. In February 2026, Vertical secured U.S. distribution rights for a 2026 release.

Paul Dano stars as Vadim Baranov, a character inspired by real‑life political advisor Vladislav Surkov. The cast also includes Jude Law as the “tsar” Putin, Alicia Vikander as the magnetic Ksenia who pulls Vadim away from the dangerous game, Will Keen as Boris Berezovsky, Tom Sturridge as Dmitri Sidorov, and Jeffrey Wright as Rowland, among others. The ensemble brings a mix of sharp wit and gravitas to a story that is as much about personal ambition as it is about national destiny.

Critics have had mixed feelings. Rotten Tomatoes shows a 49 % positive rating from 39 reviews, with the consensus calling it a “dryly witty yet overwrought slow burner” that struggles with thin characters, sluggish pacing, and repetitive storytelling. Metacritic gives it a 54/100, labeling the reception as “mixed or average.” If you’re a fan of slow‑burn political satire that doesn’t rush to a punchline, you’ll likely appreciate the film’s deliberate pacing and dry humor. On the flip side, if you prefer fast‑paced thrillers or richly developed characters, you might find the film a bit sluggish and repetitive.

Overall, The Wizard of the Kremlin offers a unique, satirical lens on a pivotal moment in Russian history, blending political intrigue with dark comedy. It’s a film that will resonate with viewers who enjoy thoughtful, character‑driven stories about power and manipulation, while those looking for a more conventional thriller might walk away feeling a bit underwhelmed.