Rotten Tomatoes Score Drops for Jude Law’s New Thriller ‘The Wizard of the Kremlin’

Jude Law’s new political thriller “The Wizard of the Kremlin” is getting mixed reactions from critics, and its Rotten Tomatoes score has dropped to 46%, according to data.

The film is directed by Olivier Assayas and is based on the 2022 novel by Giuliano da Empoli. It tells a fictional story set in Russia during the early 1990s, following a young man named Vadim Baranov, played by Paul Dano, who rises from an artist to a powerful political strategist. Jude Law plays a young Vladimir Putin as he climbs into power, with the story showing how politics, media, and manipulation shape modern Russia.

The film also features Alicia Vikander, Will Keen, Tom Sturridge, and Jeffrey Wright. It premiered at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 31, 2025, where it competed for the Golden Lion.

According to Rotten Tomatoes, the movie holds a 46% Tomatometer score based on 98 reviews, with a 55% audience Popcornmeter from over 100 verified ratings. Critics have pointed to slow pacing, weak storytelling structure, and thin character development as key problems.

Some reviewers were more positive about the performances and themes, even if they had issues with the execution. Peter Travers wrote, “It’s Russian history for dummies, but a never better Jude Law paints a portrait of Putin as a young tyrant that rings thrillingly, scarily true.”

The general reaction from critics is split. Some say the film feels slow and unclear in its purpose, while others see it as a serious political drama with strong acting and moments of tension. One review described it as “a mildly fascinating historical-fiction footnote.”

Audience reactions are also divided. Some viewers found it interesting but slow, while others felt it lacked energy or clarity in its message.

“The Wizard of the Kremlin” focuses on themes of power, influence, and manipulation in post-Soviet Russia, showing how Vadim Baranov becomes a key figure behind the scenes of a rising political system. The story also highlights his relationship with Ksenia, who becomes the one person he cannot control.

Despite the mixed reception, the film’s Venice premiere brought attention due to its cast and political subject matter. It remains one of the more talked-about political dramas of the season, even as reviews continue to vary widely.

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