Olivier Assayas’s ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’ Offers a Darkly Comedic Take on Putin’s Rise

Olivier Assayas’s latest film, The Wizard of the Kremlin, a political thriller and dark comedy, premiered at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival in August 2025 and is slated for release in France on January 21, 2026. The film, based on Giuliano da Empoli’s 2022 novel of the same name, offers a satirical look at the final years of the Soviet Union and the ascent of Vladimir Putin.

A Satirical Portrait of Power

The Wizard of the Kremlin centers on Vadim Baranov, portrayed by Paul Dano, as he navigates the shifting political landscape of 1990s Russia, ultimately becoming a key figure in the government as a spin doctor. Simultaneously, the film depicts a young Vladimir Putin, played by Jude Law, as he rises to power. The film explores the manipulative tactics and power dynamics at play during this turbulent period.

Cast and Crew

The film boasts a stellar cast including Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, Jeffrey Wright, and Will Keen, alongside Dano and Law. Assayas co-wrote the screenplay with Emmanuel Carrère. The production involved Gaumont, Curiosa Films, and Pierce Capital Entertainment, with distribution handled by Gaumont in France and Vertical in the United States.

Venice Film Festival Reception

The Wizard of the Kremlin was nominated for the Golden Lion at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival. The 156-minute film has garnered attention for its unique perspective on a pivotal moment in Russian history and its darkly comedic approach to political maneuvering.

About the Source Material

The film is adapted from Giuliano da Empoli’s 2022 novel, The Wizard of the Kremlin. The novel provides the foundation for the film’s exploration of power, manipulation, and the transformation of Russia during a critical period.