The Wizard of the Kremlin

The Wizard of the Kremlin is a 2026 English‑language French political satire that takes you straight into the chaos of early 1990s Russia. The story follows Vadim Baranov, a bright young artist who, after a stint as a reality‑TV producer, becomes the spin‑doctor for a rising KGB agent—Vladimir Putin. As Baranov climbs the ranks, he shapes the new Russian Federation, blurring the lines between truth and manipulation. The only person who seems to keep him from fully diving into the dangerous game is the magnetic Ksenia, who tempts him away from the political whirlwind. Years later, after retreating into silence, Baranov finally opens up, revealing the dark secrets of the regime he helped build.

Directed by Olivier Assayas and co‑written with Emmanuel Carrère, the film is an adaptation of Giuliano da Empoli’s 2022 novel. It premiered in the main competition at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on 31 August 2025, earning a nomination for the Golden Lion. The cast is a star‑studded lineup: Paul Dano plays the fictional Vadim Baranov (inspired by Vladislav Surkov), Jude Law portrays the “tsar” Vladimir Putin, Alicia Vikander is Ksenia, and the supporting roles include Will Keen, Tom Sturridge, Jeffrey Wright, and others. Filming took place in Riga, Latvia, in March 2025, and the film was released in North America by Vertical in February 2026.

With a runtime of 156 minutes, The Wizard of the Kremlin is a slow‑burner that leans heavily into dry wit. Critics have been mixed: Rotten Tomatoes shows a 52 % approval rating from 44 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.” Despite the lukewarm reviews, the film’s sharp political satire and strong performances make it a compelling watch for anyone interested in the mechanics of power and the rise of modern Russia.

If you enjoy political thrillers that dissect the art of spin and manipulation—think of a blend between The Crown and The West Wing—you’ll likely find this film intriguing. Fans of historical dramas set against the backdrop of real political upheaval will appreciate the nuanced portrayal of early post‑Soviet Russia. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a fast‑paced thriller with high‑energy action, this film’s deliberate pacing and focus on dialogue might feel a bit slow. Either way, The Wizard of the Kremlin offers a unique look at how a single individual can shape a nation’s destiny, all while keeping you guessing about what’s real and what’s staged.