Jude Law is gearing up for one of the most challenging roles of his career — portraying Russian President Vladimir Putin in Olivier Assayas’ political thrillerThe Wizard of the Kremlin. The film, based on Giuliano da Empoli’s best-selling novel, explores Putin’s early years in power and the inner workings of the Kremlin.
In an interview with Deadline, Law confessed to feeling daunted by the task ahead.
“I’m in the foothills looking up thinking, ‘Oh Christ, what have I said yes to?'” the actor shared.
Despite his apprehension, Law is determined to tackle the part with the same intensity and nuance he’s brought to previous roles.
What Is The Wizard of the Kremlin About?
Set during post-Soviet Russia, The Wizard of the Kremlin centers on a young filmmaker (played by Paul Dano) who becomes an unexpected advisor to Putin during his rise to power. The film delves into the machinations of Russian politics, shedding light on the early days of Putin’s presidency and the forces that shaped modern Russia.
Alicia Vikander, Zach Galifianakis, and Tom Sturridge round out the cast of this gripping political thriller, which promises to be one of the most talked-about films of the year.
Jude Law on Preparing to Play Putin
Portraying a figure as polarizing and controversial as Putin is no small feat, and Law is feeling the weight of the responsibility.
“It looks like Everest to climb,” he admitted. “I was saying yes, but inside I was going, ‘Oh God, how am I going to do this?’ But anyway, that’s for me to sort out.”
While Law hasn’t shared specifics on how he’s preparing for the role, his previous performances in The Young Popeand Firebrand demonstrate his ability to capture powerful, complex leaders with a mix of charisma and menace.
From the Vatican to the Kremlin: Jude Law’s Leadership Roles
Law is no stranger to playing world leaders. He famously portrayed Pope Pius XIII in HBO’s The Young Pope and its follow-up, The New Pope, where his portrayal of a enigmatic and controversial pontiff earned critical acclaim.
Now, with The Wizard of the Kremlin, Law is stepping into one of the most politically charged roles of his career. Unlike his fictional portrayal of the pope, his depiction of Putin will require navigating real-life historical and political complexities.
Why Law Took on the Role
Law hinted that his decision to take on such a challenging part stems from his desire to explore the human side of powerful figures.
“What drives someone to seek that level of power? What shapes their decisions and beliefs?” Law has said of previous roles. His portrayal of Putin will likely follow this same approach, offering insight into the man behind the politics.
What We Know About the Production
Director: Olivier Assayas (Carlos, Irma Vep)
Based on:The Wizard of the Kremlin by Giuliano da Empoli
Starring: Jude Law, Paul Dano, Alicia Vikander, Zach Galifianakis, Tom Sturridge
Plot: Explores Putin’s rise to power through the eyes of a young advisor.
Law continues to be one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. He recently appeared in Disney+’s Star Wars: Skeleton Crew and is slated to reprise his role as Dr. John Watson in the long-awaited Sherlock Holmes 3 alongside Robert Downey Jr.
The actor also hinted at a new iteration of the Sherlock script, saying, “There’s a great will to make it… The hope is we’re still going to do it.”
The Verdict: A Bold Role for a Bold Actor
Jude Law’s decision to play Vladimir Putin in The Wizard of the Kremlin is already generating buzz. The film’s exploration of Russia’s political landscape through the lens of Putin’s rise to power promises to be both provocative and timely.
While Law may feel daunted by the challenge, fans can expect a nuanced, deeply human performance from one of the most compelling actors of his generation.
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Now, with The Wizard of the Kremlin, Law is stepping into one of the most politically charged roles of his career. Unlike his fictional portrayal of the pope, his depiction of Putin will require navigating real-life historical and political complexities.
