The Kremlin’s Shadow: How Latvia Became a Stage for Russian Narratives in Film
Riga is standing in for 1990s Moscow in “The Wizard of the Kremlin,” a film exploring the power dynamics surrounding Boris Yeltsin’s failing health and the subsequent rise of Vladimir Putin. But the film’s production, and those of others like it, raise questions about Western understanding of Eastern Europe and the potential for subtly reinforcing Kremlin narratives.
A Blurred Line Between Fact and Fiction
Olivier Assayas’s film, based on the perform of Italian writer Giuliano da Empoli, deliberately blurs the lines between fact and fiction. The narrative centers on a Western journalist investigating the origins of Yevgeny Zamyatin’s dystopian novel “We,” only to find himself drawn into the orbit of Vadim Baranov – a character widely understood to be based on Vladislav Surkov, a key political strategist.
Jude Law portrays Putin (referred to frequently as “the Tsar”), while other figures like Alexei Prigozhin and Boris Berezovsky are depicted by name. This blend of real individuals and fictionalized accounts creates a complex, and potentially misleading, portrayal of events.
“Forma Pro” and the Rise of Russia-Focused Films
The production of “The Wizard of the Kremlin,” along with films like “Lemonov” (2024), has been facilitated by Latvian studio “Forma Pro.” This raises concerns, as the studio has become increasingly involved in projects dealing with Russian narratives. A recent investigation by “Le Monde” highlighted questions surrounding the financing of these films and potential connections to Russian partners.
Latvia’s Investment and Development Agency initially declined to financially support “The Wizard of the Kremlin” due to national security concerns, a decision that was met with pressure from French film organizations who argued it restricted creative freedom.
Echoes of Kremlin Propaganda
Critics argue that the film’s narrative leans towards Kremlin talking points. For example, the film presents the Maidan Revolution in Ukraine as orchestrated by the US and the CIA without offering counterarguments. It similarly suggests that a strong central authority is necessary for Russia, echoing a common justification for Putin’s authoritarian rule.
The film frames events as a consequence of Western policy, rather than Russian aggression, potentially reinforcing a narrative that absolves Russia of responsibility for its actions.
The Role of Latvian Actors
The casting of Latvian actors in roles portraying controversial figures like Alexander Zaldostanov (leader of the “Night Wolves” motorcycle club) and Yevgeny Prigozhin has also drawn criticism. While actors may relish the challenge of playing complex characters, some argue that participating in a film with a potentially biased narrative raises ethical concerns.
Kaspars Kambala’s portrayal of Zaldostanov includes the character praising Eduard Limonov, an anti-Latvian figure, further complicating the ethical considerations.
A Pattern of Narratives
“The Wizard of the Kremlin” is part of a growing trend of films shot in Latvia that explore Russian themes. Albert Serra’s “Out of This World,” which focuses on the US-Russia economic rivalry, is another example. This raises questions about whether Latvia is becoming a convenient location for productions that subtly promote narratives favorable to the Kremlin.
Navigating the Gray Zone: The Risks of Uncritical Storytelling
The film doesn’t present itself as a factual account, but the use of real-life prototypes and the ambiguity of its message create a risk of misinterpretation. As French political scientist Cécile Vaissié notes, uncritically adopting the narratives of ideologues is dangerous, especially in the context of ongoing conflict.
Did you know?
The film’s director, Olivier Assayas, has denied any collaboration with Russia regarding its funding.
FAQ
Q: Is “The Wizard of the Kremlin” a pro-Putin film?
A: The film doesn’t explicitly endorse Putin, but its narrative and framing of events have been criticized for echoing Kremlin talking points.
Q: What role did Latvia play in the film’s production?
A: Latvia served as a filming location, and the production was facilitated by Latvian studio “Forma Pro.”
Q: What are the concerns about “Forma Pro”?
A: The studio has been involved in multiple films dealing with Russian narratives, raising questions about potential connections and influence.
Pro Tip
When consuming political dramas, always consider the source, the filmmaker’s perspective, and potential biases. Cross-reference information with reputable news sources and historical accounts.
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