No fear of repercussions: Jude Law on playing Vladimir Putin

Jude Law starrer The Wizard of the Kremlin received a rousing 10-minute standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival. While Jude Law stepped in as Vladimir Putin, Paul Dano was seen as Vadim Baranov, the Russian president's former right-hand man.

Set in the early 90s during the final years of the Soviet Union, the film focuses on the fictional character of reality TV star Vadim Baranov, who unexpectedly became Putin's spin doctor. The character is believed to be inspired by Vladislav Sourkov, a real-life fixer credited for shaping Putin's persona and authoritarian leadership style. Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, and Jeffrey Wright further round up the cast.

Speaking at the festival, Jude Law shared that he had no fear about portraying Putin. "I hope not naively, but I didn't fear repercussions. I felt confident, in the hands of Olivier and the script, that this story was going to be told intelligently and with nuance and consideration. We weren't looking for controversy for controversy's sake. It's a character in a broader story. We weren't trying to define anything about anyone," the actor told the media.

When asked about his preparations for the character, Law shared how his director didn't want him to hide behind prosthetics. "We worked with an amazing makeup and hair team and had reference to that period in Putin's life. We tried to find a familiarity with me. It's amazing what a great wig can do," he said. Co-written and directed by Olivier Assayas, The Wizard of the Kremlin is adapted from Giuliano da Empoli's 2022 novel of the same name.

"Beyond the passions of men navigating the dangerous fluxes of modern politics, we see the powerful cinematic sweep of history in the making. It's drama; it's action; it's about trying to make sense of the chaos that is transforming our world in the strangest, most disturbing ways," the director said while announcing the film. — ANI

Saree in the Spotlight

 Divya Dutta takes Indian elegance to Venice

National Award-winning actor Divya Dutta turned heads with her regal presence at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, being held at the iconic Venice Lido from 27th August to 6th September 2025.

Divya walked in wearing a black-and-gold saree, paired with a chic black blouse and statement earrings. The look struck the perfect balance between tradition and modernity, celebrating Indian craftsmanship on an international stage.

With a career spanning acclaimed films like Veer-Zaara, Delhi-6, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, Stanley Ka Dabba, Welcome to Sajjanpur, Sheer Qorma, Sharmaji Ki Beti, Chhaava, and her National Award-winning performance in Irada, Divya has consistently brought depth, authenticity, and brilliance to the screen. She has also been applauded for her versatility across platforms, cinema, OTT, and literature. Recently, she wowed audiences with her Telugu debut series called Mayasabha, further cementing her reputation as an artist unafraid to experiment across mediums.

Speaking at Venice, Divya shared, “It is always an honour to represent Indian cinema at such a global platform. Wearing a saree here feels like carrying my culture with me, and I am humbled by the love and warmth it has received.”

Divya Dutta’s presence at Venice is not just about style, it is a celebration of Indian cinema’s growing global footprint, and a reminder of the power of authentic storytelling that transcends borders.