In a bold move, filmmakers have taken on the task of portraying the enigmatic Vladimir Putin, a leader still very much in power, in the new film 'The Wizard of the Kremlin.' This movie, an adaptation of Giuliano da Empoli's novel, offers a unique perspective on Russia's transformation from a Soviet dictatorship to a modern-day czardom.
The film's central figure is not Putin himself, but his media advisor, Vadim Baranov, played by Paul Dano. Through Baranov's eyes, we witness the rise of Putin and the evolution of a new Russia. The story begins during the fall of communism, a time of great change and uncertainty, and follows Baranov's journey from electronics salesman to avant-garde theater director, and eventually, to the heart of Russian politics.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the film is its portrayal of the 'anything goes' Russia of the 1990s. This was a period of lawlessness, where capitalism ran wild, creating a new class of oligarchs while leaving millions impoverished. It was in this environment that Baranov realized the arts had little power, and he set out to be at the center of this new, chaotic Russia.
Baranov's rise is intertwined with that of Putin, a KGB officer who, with the guidance of Baranov and the backing of oligarch Boris Berezovsky, ascends to the presidency. The film highlights the idea that Russians have a deep-rooted need for authority, a concept that Putin, with his KGB background, understands and exploits. This is a key insight into Putin's mindset and his approach to governance.
The movie also delves into Baranov's role as Putin's media guru, showcasing his innovative use of the internet to spread extremist ideas and destabilize the West. It's a chilling reminder of the power of information manipulation in the digital age.
While the film's dialogue is sharp and insightful, the overall story feels somewhat rushed and abstract. However, Jude Law's portrayal of Putin is a standout, offering a revealing glimpse into the man's psyche. We see his composure, his ironic smile, and his flashes of anger, all of which hint at his complex personality—a mix of canniness, brutality, and a deep-seated resentment of the West.
In contrast, Baranov, based on the real-life Vladislav Surkov, remains an enigma. Some viewers may find this frustrating, but it's precisely this elusiveness that makes him an intriguing character. He represents a type of politically savvy, morally vacant strategist that seems to exist in every corner of the globe.
'The Wizard of the Kremlin' is not so much an exposé of Putin's authoritarianism as it is a capture of a symbolic figure of our time. Baranov, and by extension, Putin, represent a dangerous allure—the excitement of serving malevolent power, even at the cost of one's own destruction. It's a thought-provoking exploration of the dark side of human nature and the allure of absolute power.
This film is a must-see for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of modern Russia and the minds of those who shape its destiny.
