Vertical Picks Up Olivier Assayas’ Political Thriller ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’ Featuring Paul Dano, Alicia Vikander, and Jude Law
EXCLUSIVE: Vertical has secured North American rights to The Wizard of the Kremlin, a political thriller featuring Paul Dano, Alicia Vikander, and Jude Law. The film is the latest work from award-winning director Olivier Assayas, known for titles such as Irma Vep.
Having premiered in the main competition at the 82nd Venice Film Festival and screened at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), The Wizard of the Kremlin is scheduled for theatrical release later this year.
Based on Giuliano da Empoli’s novel Le Mage du Kremlin, the film is set against the backdrop of early 1990s Russia. In a period marked by post-Soviet upheaval, the story follows Vadim Baranov, portrayed by Dano, as he transitions from artist to reality TV producer before becoming the spin doctor for a rising KGB agent, Vladimir Putin (played by Law). Baranov’s journey reveals his influence on the evolving landscape of Russia, as he navigates complex relationships and the blurred lines between truth and deceit. The character of Ksenia, depicted by Vikander, remains a powerful force in Baranov’s life, drawing him away from the perilous game he plays. The narrative takes a turn years later when Baranov, now enigmatic and reclusive, begins to unravel the clandestine secrets of the regime he once supported.
Written by Assayas and Emmanuel Carrère, the film also features performances from Tom Sturridge, Will Keen, and Jeffrey Wright.
Assayas expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Wizard of the Kremlin has been one of my most ambitious and most exciting projects. A political thriller and an epic, served by a dream cast. The shoot was an adventure, a challenge… and a joy. I am thrilled to team up with Vertical, and I can’t wait for North American audiences to discover the film in theaters.”
Peter Jarowey, Partner at Vertical, praised Assayas’s work, saying, “Olivier is an exceptional filmmaker who has crafted a remarkable film, offering a rare and compelling glimpse behind the Iron Curtain. With a standout cast led by Paul and Jude, we’re excited to bring the film to North American audiences later this year.”
The Wizard of the Kremlin was produced by Olivier Delbosc for Curiosa Films and Sidonie Dumas for Gaumont, with co-production from France 2 Cinéma. The film benefits from the executive production of Alexandra Abrams, Justin Ardalan-Raikes, Sylvie Barthet, and several others.
The acquisition deal was negotiated by Jarowey and SVP of Acquisitions Tony Piantedosi for Vertical, with CAA Media Finance and Gaumont representing the filmmakers.
