The Wizard of the Kremlin (2026)

Power was the plan. Putin was the consequence.

Synopsis

In early 1990s Russia, amid post-Soviet chaos, brilliant young Vadim Baranov charts his path. First an artist, then a reality television producer, he becomes the spin doctor to rising KGB agent Vladimir Putin. At the heart of power, Baranov shapes the new Russia, blurring the boundaries between truth and lies, belief and manipulation.

Only the magnetic Ksenia is beyond his control, tempting him away from this dangerous game. Years later, after retreating into silence and shrouded in mystery, Baranov finally reveals the dark secrets of the regime he helped build.

The Wizard of the Kremlin / (Le mage du Kremlin)

Release Date: 2026-01-21

Director: Olivier Assayas

Cast: Paul Dano, Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, Will Keen, Jeffrey Wright, Jude Law, Andris Keišs, Magne-Håvard Brekke, Matthew Baunsgard

Genres: Drama, Comedy, Thriller

Rating: ★★★★☆ • 6.479 / 10

Runtime: 136 minutes

Country: France, United States of America, United Kingdom

Language: English

Subtitle: English (selectable)

Source: N/A

Content Rating: R