The first photo has been revealed ofThe Wizard of the Kremlin.The upcoming thriller will see Jude Law play Vladimir Putin, who experiences a young filmmaker becoming his advisor during his rise to power in post-Soviet Russia. In addition to Law,the film features Alicia Vikander,Paul Dano, Zach Galifianakis, Tom Sturridge, and Jeffrey Wright.The film is directed by French filmmaker Olivier Assayas, who has worked onPersonal ShopperandClouds of Sils Maria. Assayas also wrote the movie’s script.

PerThe Times,the first-look photo ofThe Wizard of the Kremlinreveals Law’s transformation as Putin. The actor wears a suit and has his hair slicked back in the photo while sporting a blank expression. He is surrounded by what appear to be extras playing members of an Arab delegation. A second photo shows Law giving a slight smile in the role.

Jude Law’s Jod Na Nawood staring at a pile of credits in Skeleton Crew episode 7 (2025)

What This Means For The Wizard Of The Kremlin

The Film Will Have Significant Fictional Elements

While Putin is a living, real-life figure,The Wizard of the Kremlinwill have fictional elements.It is based on the novel of the same name by Italian author Giuliano de Empoli. The plot features a fictional character, Vladimir Baranov (Dano in the film), who is loosely based on Vladislav Surkov. Surkov is a Russian politician and businessperson who served as one of Putin’s political advisors, helping the president keep power in the 2000s.

Jude Law’s 10 Best Movies, Ranked

Nearing veteran status while showcasing his incredible range and talent, Jude Law remains a powerful force on screen as seen in many notable films.

The only main character whose appearance has been revealed is Law, who plays the real character of Putin. Whilethe British actor does not look exactly like Putin, his dyed and slicked-back hair matches the Russian president’s style. Even his blank, perturbed expression resembles how the Russian figure is often observed in photographs. As more photos become available from the set ofThe Wizard of the Kremlin, it will be interesting to see to what extent Law’s look aligns with his Russian presidential counterpart.

A composite image of Jude Law in Cold Mountain, Sherlock Holmes, and The Talented Mr. Ripley

Our Take On The Wizard Of The Kremlin Images

The Movie Might Cause Controversy

While the hair and makeup forThe Wizard of the Kremlinseems like a fairly decent attempt, I will be most interested to see how the movie ends up being received upon its release. As evidenced by the controversy aroundlast year’s biopicThe Apprentice, movies about currently alive and controversial political figures are not always met with warm reception. I expect this Putin film to be no exception, making the production updates intriguing and potentially contentious.

Sebastian Stan as Donald Trump in The Apprentice

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