**Jude Law Stars as Putin in ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’ Set to Release This May**
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Upcoming film ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’, based on Giuliano de Empoli’s French novel, will arrive in UK cinemas on May 15. The highly anticipated movie features a star-studded cast led by Jude Law, who plays the controversial figure of Russian President Vladimir Putin during the turbulent 1990s, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
The film’s newly released trailer, unveiled by Vertical on April 13, gives audiences a glimpse into the chaotic political landscape of post-Soviet Russia. Law, known for his versatile acting prowess, takes on the complex role of Putin, a former KGB officer who rises to prominence in the shadows of a nation grappling with political upheaval.
The narrative unfolds through the eyes of the fictional character Vadim Baranov, portrayed by Paul Dano. Baranov serves as a cunning advisor to Putin, and together, they navigate the turbulent waters of Russian politics. An official synopsis reveals that Baranov and Putin’s journey is marked by manipulation, violence, and deception, as they seek to establish control over a nation on the brink of chaos.
The film delves into the dark and unsettling forces that shaped modern Russian governance, opening with themes of corruption and lies that lead to tyranny and war. As stated in the synopsis, “Putin and Baranov’s reign of chaos begins with lies and corruption, escalating to assassinations, tyranny, and eventually all-out war.”
In addition to Law and Dano, ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’ features a notable ensemble cast including Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, Will Keen, and Jeffrey Wright. The film made its world debut in August 2025 at the renowned Venice Film Festival, where it garnered attention not just for its story but also for how it reflects on contemporary politics.
Commenting on the film’s thematic relevance, director Olivier Assayas remarked during a press conference that it serves as a critical reflection on modern politics, potentially resonating with viewers across the globe. Assayas described the political landscape depicted in the film as “cynical, deceptive, and toxic,” highlighting the dangerous trajectories that such forces can lead to.
Jude Law first revealed his involvement in the project in a January 2025 interview, expressing the weight of the role: “It looks like an Everest to climb.” Speaking at the Venice Film Festival, he elaborated on his belief that the film is constructed with “intelligence, nuance, and consideration,” allowing for a well-rounded portrayal of such a complex figure.
Director Assayas added further insight during the press interactions, explaining that the story of Vladimir Putin acts as a case study for broader themes of power and governance. “Part of that brought the power of Vladimir Putin in Russia, so we made a movie about what politics has become, and the very scary and dangerous situation we all feel we are in,” he stated.
As anticipation builds for ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’, audiences are eager to see how the film navigates the challenging subject matter and interprets the re-emergence of authoritarianism in the modern political climate.
With its UK release just around the corner, the film is set to spark discussions not only regarding the life of Putin but also about the moral complexities faced by those in power. As cinematic portrayals of real-world political figures continue to provoke thought and debate, ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’ is poised to make its mark this May.