The Wizard of the Kremlin: Controversy and Kremlin Narratives in Assayas’s Political Thriller

Olivier Assayas’s 2025 political thriller, The Wizard of the Kremlin, starring Jude Law as Vladimir Putin, has ignited debate not for its historical accuracy—the film explicitly blends fact and fiction—but for its framing of history and potential echoes of Kremlin narratives. Filmed in Latvia with a €23 million budget, the film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival in August 2025 and was subsequently screened at the Arras Film Festival in November 2025 before its wider release in France on January 21, 2026.

A Fictionalized Account of Putin’s Rise

Based on Giuliano da Empoli’s 2022 novel of the same name, The Wizard of the Kremlin follows the story of Vadim Baranov (Paul Dano) as he navigates the shifting political landscape of Russia during the final years of the Soviet Union and the early years of the Russian Federation. The film also stars Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, Will Keen, and Jeffrey Wright. Assayas co-wrote the screenplay with Emmanuel Carrère.

Latvia as a Filming Location and Concerns Over Kremlin Influence

The choice of Latvia as a filming location has drawn scrutiny. The increasing utilize of Latvian studio “Forma Pro” in Russia-focused productions has raised questions about the potential for narratives that offer a sanitized view of the Putin regime. Latvia’s proximity to Russia and cost-effectiveness make it an attractive location, but also raise concerns about the framing of sensitive political issues. The film has been criticized for potentially echoing Kremlin narratives, such as presenting the Maidan Revolution as a U.S.-orchestrated event and suggesting the require for strong central authority in Russia.

A Complex Portrayal and the Blurring of Fact and Fiction

Assayas himself acknowledged the “obstacle-filled journey” of bringing the film to fruition, from adapting a sometimes controversial source material to navigating the complexities of filming in Latvia. The film includes a disclaimer stating that it is a function of art and that characters and their statements are fictitious. Yet, critics argue that even a fictionalized portrayal can inadvertently rehabilitate the image of Putin and his inner circle, particularly at a time when accountability is paramount. The film’s exploration of morally ambiguous characters, a common trope in storytelling, becomes particularly fraught when dealing with real-world figures accused of aggression and human rights abuses.

Production Details

• Director: Olivier Assayas
• Screenplay: Olivier Assayas, Emmanuel Carrère
• Based on: The Wizard of the Kremlin by Giuliano da Empoli
• Starring: Paul Dano, Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, Will Keen, Jeffrey Wright, Jude Law
• Production Companies: Gaumont, Curiosa Films, Pierce Capital Entertainment
• Distributors: Gaumont (France), Vertical (United States)
• Running Time: 156 minutes

Looking Ahead

The Wizard of the Kremlin prompts a crucial discussion about the responsibility of filmmakers when portraying real-world political figures and events. As Hollywood continues to explore complex villains and utilize Eastern European locations, it is essential to consider the potential impact of these narratives on public perception and the broader geopolitical landscape.