Vertical released the official trailer for The Wizard of the Kremlin on Tuesday. The video shows a dark comedy set in a chaotic post Soviet Russia. It follows a rising KGB officer who becomes Vladimir Putin and a master manipulator named Vadim Baranov as they plot to reshape the nation. The trailer promises violence, deception, and a satirical look at power.

What We Know About The Wizard of the Kremlin

The film will debut in U.S. theaters on May 15, 2026, after premiering at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival. Director Olivier Assayas leads the project and co‑wrote the script with Emmanuel Carrère. The story is based on the 2022 novel Le Mage du Kremlin by Giuliano da Empoli.

Cast and Crew

Jude Law takes on the role of Vladimir Putin, bringing a cold intensity to the character. Paul Dano plays Vadim Baranov, a clever schemer who partners with Putin. Jeffrey Wright appears as Rowland, while Alicia Vikander portrays Ksenia. Tom Sturridge joins as Dmitri Sidorov and Will Keen acts as Boris Berezovsky. The production team includes producer Olivier Delbosc for Curiosa Films and Sidonie Dumas for Gaumont. France 2 Cinéma co‑produces the picture.

Why the Trailer Matters

The Wizard of the Kremlin trailer gives fans a clear sense of tone. It mixes political intrigue with dark humor, and the visuals hint at a gritty, realistic style. Fans of political drama will notice the careful framing by director of photography Yorick Le Saux. Editor Marion Monnier stitches the scenes together with a brisk pace that keeps the story moving.

Critics have offered mixed early feedback. Rotten Tomatoes currently lists a 52 percent approval rating based on 44 reviews. Some reviewers praise the bold performances, while others question the balance of satire and seriousness. Regardless, the buzz around the film shows strong interest from audiences who enjoy political satire.

How to Watch the Trailer

You can view the full trailer on ComingSoon.net or on the official YouTube channel. The video runs just under three minutes and includes key moments that highlight the clash between Putin and Baranov. Watching the trailer gives a taste of the film’s visual style and the chemistry between Jude Law and Paul Dano.

Overall, The Wizard of the Kremlin promises a fresh take on a well known figure. The combination of a respected director, a talented cast, and a provocative script makes the upcoming release worth following. Keep an eye on release dates and watch the trailer to stay updated.

Source: Coming Soon