Olivier Assayas’ Russian Political Drama Debuts May 15

The first official trailer for Olivier Assayas’ political drama The Wizard of the Kremlin has been released, confirming a theatrical release date of May 15, 2026. The film, which is an English-language French production, charts the ascent of Vladimir Putin into a global political figure.

The narrative focuses on the relationship between a young Vladimir Putin, played by Jude Law, and Vadim Baranov, played by Paul Dano. Baranov is a fictional character based on Vladislav Surkov, a figure widely regarded as the grey cardinal of Russian politics. The trailer positions Dano’s character as a New Rasputin and the primary driver of the film’s plot.

A Study of Power and Manipulation

Described as a political thriller and dark comedy satire, the film follows Baranov’s evolution from a young artist in 1990s Russia to an influential government official and spin doctor. The plot explores the final years of the Soviet Union and the beginning of the Russian Federation.

According to the film’s synopsis, Baranov uses violence and deception to help Putin reshape life behind the Iron Curtain. Their partnership is depicted as a reign of chaos that begins with corruption and lies, eventually escalating into tyranny, assassinations, and all-out war.

The trailer highlights Baranov’s cynical approach to geopolitics, with the specific objective to sow chaos and establish a myth that Russians are controlling the modern world.

Production and Creative Origins

Olivier Assayas directed the film and co-wrote the screenplay with Emmanuel Carrère. The project is based on the 2022 novel of the same name written by Giuliano da Empoli.

The film was produced by Sidonie Dumas and Olivier Delbosc through production companies Curiosa Films and Gaumont France 2 Cinéma. It has a running time of 136 minutes and was distributed by Gaumont in France and Vertical in the United States.

Alongside Jude Law and Paul Dano, the ensemble cast includes:

• Alicia Vikander
• Jeffrey Wright
• Tom Sturridge
• Will Keen

Festival Premiere and Critical Reception

The Wizard of the Kremlin had its world premiere on August 31, 2025, in the main competition of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, where it was nominated for the Golden Lion. While the film was warmly received during its debut, some critics expressed caution regarding its tone.

Without daring to question Baranov as a narrator, Assayas’ film consents to be interpreted as cynical. Because what is it, if not cynical, to insist on turning a chain of events that are still unfolding into a compact story?

Savina Petkova, Venice review

The film previously opened in France on January 21, 2026, prior to its upcoming May release in other markets.