New Drama Explores the Rise of Putin
The latest drama by Oliver Assayas, set to premiere in Venice, revolves around a Russian spin doctor. The film features Paul Dano as Vadim Baranov, a former avant-garde artist and reality TV show producer who becomes an unofficial consultant to ex-KGB agent Putin.
Cast and Plot
The drama boasts a talented cast, including Jude Law as Putin, Alicia Vikander, Jeffrey Wright, and Tom Sturridge. The story follows Baranov as he navigates the complexities of Russian politics and becomes embroiled in Putin’s rise to power.
Mixed Reviews
The film has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising Jude Law’s performance as Putin. Damon Wise from Deadline describes the film as "captivating," noting that it offers a warning to the West about the creation of Putin’s regime. However, others have criticized the film for lacking verve and being overly long.
Critic Reviews
The International Cinephile Society gave the film four out of five stars, praising Assayas’ direction and Dano’s performance. The Next Best Picture also praised the film, giving it a score of 7/10 and noting that the script is "a joy to listen to." However, not all critics were impressed, with Little White Lies describing the film as a "commendable endeavor" that ultimately "misunderstands the treasure chest of its premise."
Cast Praise
Jude Law has received widespread praise for his portrayal of Putin, with The Telegraph describing his performance as "legitimately frightening." The Times of London also praised Law’s performance, stating that he is "perfect" as Putin.
Production
The film was adapted by Assayas and Emmanuel Carrère from Giuliano da Empoli’s novel of the same name, which is inspired by Putin’s career. The film is produced by Oliver Delbosc and Sidonie Dumas, with Gaumont handling French sales and international sales.
Conclusion
Overall, the new drama offers a unique perspective on the rise of Putin and the complexities of Russian politics. While it has received mixed reviews, the film is sure to spark interesting discussions and debates about the current state of global politics.
