Jude Law to tackle Putin role in 'The Wizard of the Kremlin'
He played the young Albus Dumbledore and the first American pope. Now, Jude Law has received another unique job offer. It seems he will be portraying Vladimir Putin in a new project.
Jude Law probably needs no introduction. Many people will certainly remember the actor from productions such as "The Holiday," "The Talented Mr. Ripley," "Enemy at the Gates," "The Young Pope," and the "Sherlock Holmes" and "Fantastic Beasts" series. Recently, he joined the "Star Wars" universe, appearing in the series "The Skeleton Crew." This year, a new instalment of the "Sherlock" adventures is set to premiere, where Jude plays Dr. Watson. In 2026, a movie featuring Jude as Vladimir Putin is planned for release. What is known about this project?
Jude Law in another film about Putin
The British actor confirmed his involvement in "The Wizard of the Kremlin", where he will portray Russian President Vladimir Putin. The project with Jude will be directed by Olivier Assayas. It's a story based on the bestselling novel by Giuliano da Empoli.
The production focuses on a young filmmaker, Vadim Baranov, played by Paul Dano. This character unexpectedly becomes a key advisor to Putin during his rise to power in post-Soviet Russia. In the book, Baranov recounts his career, the "tsar", his rise to power, and how he became involved in significant international politics. Although, as da Empoli commented, the character of Baranov is fictional, media outlets suggest he may be inspired by a real person close to Putin — Vladislav Surkov, who was a rap enthusiast, former theatre director, writer, PR chief for a television channel, and entrepreneur. Today, he's regarded as a behind-the-scenes power at the Kremlin. Until 2020, he was reported to be an advisor to Putin.
The cast also includes Alicia Vikander, Zach Galifianakis, and Tom Sturridge, suggesting a film full of absurdities with elements of comedy is in the making.
In a conversation with Deadline, Jude Law admitted that the role of Putin is a significant challenge for him. "I am in the first stage of preparation. This project is like climbing Mount Everest, so at this moment I'm standing in front of a great mountain and taking the first steps, and I'm thinking, Jesus, what have I gotten myself into? Somehow, I will have to deal with it," the actor said.
