The Wizard of the Kremlin

The Wizard of the Kremlin is a sharp, English‑language French political satire that dives into the chaotic birth of modern Russia. Directed by Olivier Assayas and co‑written with Emmanuel Carrère, the film adapts Giuliano da Empoli’s 2022 novel and follows the fictional rise of Vadim Baranov (Paul Dano) and the real‑world ascent of Vladimir Putin (Jude Law) as they reshape life behind the Iron Curtain. With Alicia Vikander, Will Keen, Tom Sturridge and Jeffrey Wright in supporting roles, the movie paints a picture of a nation in flux, where violence, deception and ambition collide.

Set against the backdrop of a collapsing Soviet Union, the story shows how Putin, a rising KGB officer, teams up with the cunning spin‑doctor Baranov to steer the new Russian Federation. Their reign of chaos starts with lies and corruption, then spirals into assassinations, tyranny and, eventually, all‑out war. The film’s tone is dryly witty, but it also takes its time, earning the label of an “overwrought slow burner” in many reviews. The 145‑minute runtime lets the characters and their schemes unfold at a deliberate pace, which can feel sluggish to some viewers.

The cast delivers strong performances: Dano embodies the art‑inspired Baranov, while Law brings a measured intensity to the “tsar” nickname. Vikander plays Ksenia, and the supporting ensemble—including Zach Galifianakis—adds depth to the political landscape. Filming took place in Riga, Latvia, and the movie premiered in the main competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival in August 2025, where it earned a nomination for the Golden Lion.

Critics have been mixed. Rotten Tomatoes shows a 52 % approval rating from 44 reviews, citing thin characters, sluggish pacing and repetitive storytelling. Metacritic gives it a 54/100, labeling the reception as “mixed or average.” Despite the unevenness, the film’s satirical edge and historical context can appeal to fans of political thrillers and those interested in the early years of the Russian Federation.

If you enjoy character‑driven political dramas that take their time to explore power dynamics, The Wizard of the Kremlin will likely resonate. On the other hand, if you prefer fast‑paced action or clear‑cut heroes, the film’s deliberate pacing and repetitive beats might test your patience. With a modest budget and a box‑office return of about 7.6 million USD, the movie proves that a thoughtful, if uneven, narrative can still find its audience.