Jude Law's portrayal of Vladimir Putin in the latest film adaptation of "The Wizard of the Kremlin" has sparked debate over whether the Russian president is being accurately depicted on screen. However, experts argue that the film actually reinforces the mythologized version of Putin promoted by the Russian media.
The film frames Putin as a perfect leader who emerged from nowhere and took control of Russia due to his exceptional qualities. In reality, it was oligarch Berezovsky and other powerful figures who played a key role in selecting him as the next president. According to Roman Badanin, a journalist who has studied Putin's biography, "Berezovsky was a political animal who wanted someone the public would understand, preferably from the security services."
The film shows no mass protests or opposition, which is a significant omission given the events of 2011-2019 in Russia. However, by omitting these scenes, the filmmakers have inadvertently provided a propaganda boost for the Kremlin.
Interestingly, the image of Putin as a powerful KGB spy may be largely fabricated. His actual role during his time at the KGB was likely more mundane, handling paperwork and technical tasks rather than engaging in high-stakes operations.
The film's attempt to subvert this myth by depicting Vadim Baranov as the true power behind the throne has also been criticized for being overly simplistic. While Baranov may have played a significant role in shaping Putin's early career, his influence is likely to be overstated in the film.
Overall, Jude Law's portrayal of Putin in "The Wizard of the Kremlin" has sparked debate over whether it accurately represents the Russian president or reinforces the mythologized version promoted by the Russian media.
The film frames Putin as a perfect leader who emerged from nowhere and took control of Russia due to his exceptional qualities. In reality, it was oligarch Berezovsky and other powerful figures who played a key role in selecting him as the next president. According to Roman Badanin, a journalist who has studied Putin's biography, "Berezovsky was a political animal who wanted someone the public would understand, preferably from the security services."
The film shows no mass protests or opposition, which is a significant omission given the events of 2011-2019 in Russia. However, by omitting these scenes, the filmmakers have inadvertently provided a propaganda boost for the Kremlin.
Interestingly, the image of Putin as a powerful KGB spy may be largely fabricated. His actual role during his time at the KGB was likely more mundane, handling paperwork and technical tasks rather than engaging in high-stakes operations.
The film's attempt to subvert this myth by depicting Vadim Baranov as the true power behind the throne has also been criticized for being overly simplistic. While Baranov may have played a significant role in shaping Putin's early career, his influence is likely to be overstated in the film.
Overall, Jude Law's portrayal of Putin in "The Wizard of the Kremlin" has sparked debate over whether it accurately represents the Russian president or reinforces the mythologized version promoted by the Russian media.