Political Thriller The Wizard of the Kremlin Leads Weekend Movie Releases

The cinematic landscape this weekend is headlined by a gripping exploration of power and perception in The Wizard of the Kremlin. Opening in theaters on Friday, May 15, the film provides a fictionalized yet timely look at the rise of Vladimir Putin as seen through the perspective of his cunning media mastermind, Vadim Baranov.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Olivier Assayas and adapted from the bestselling novel by Giuliano da Empoli, the thriller stars Paul Dano as Baranov. The character is a former theater director turned reality television producer who eventually transitions into the world of high-stakes politics. Dano describes the role as a super complex intimate epic, portraying a man who manipulates reality itself to shape a political leader's path to power.

Jude Law delivers a transformation of his own, portraying Vladimir Putin. Director Assayas noted that Law worked closely with him, even refining the performance via remote sessions, to capture the menacing quality required for the role. The cast is rounded out by Alicia Vikander, who plays Xenia, a character Assayas playfully refers to as the real wizard behind the scenes. The film serves as a sharp commentary on modern propaganda and the tactics used by authoritarian regimes to maintain control.

For those looking for high-octane action, director Guy Ritchie returns this weekend with In the Gray. The film stars Henry Cavill and Jake Gyllenhaal as extraction specialists tasked with creating an escape route for a senior negotiator. Ritchie’s signature blend of humor and large-scale action is on full display as the star-studded ensemble navigates a dangerous extraction mission.

Horror fans can check out Obsession, a new release from director Curry Barker. Starring Inde Navarrette, the film follows a hopeless romantic who uses a mysterious willow tree to win over his crush, only to find that his desires come with a dark and sinister price.

Finally, the family-friendly Sheep Detective, based on the book Three Bags Full by Leonie Swann, offers a unique take on the mystery genre. The film stars Hugh Jackman as a shepherd who reads detective novels to his flock. When the shepherd is found dead, his sheep take it upon themselves to solve the crime. The film features a notable voice and ensemble cast including Emma Thompson and Nicholas Braun, blending humor with an surprisingly emotional core.

From inside the Iron Curtain, this is Manny the Movie Guy for NBC Palm Springs.

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