New Films Offer Glimpses into Kremlin Power Dynamics and Modern Romance
A French-language literary success has spurred new cinematic explorations of power, politics, and the search for connection. A novel by Giuliano Da Empoli, initially achieving widespread popularity with nearly 800,000 copies sold in France, serves as a backdrop for a trio of films offering distinct perspectives on contemporary life.
Decoding the Kremlin: “Le Mage du Kremlin”
Olivier Assayas’s “Le Mage du Kremlin” delves into the inner circle of Vladimir Putin, focusing on the figure of Vadim Baranov – the president’s key, behind-the-scenes advisor. American actor Paul Dano embodies Baranov with an “enigmatic” presence, according to reviews. The film reportedly spans over three decades of post-Soviet Russia, charting Putin’s ascent to power beginning in 1999, a role powerfully portrayed by Jude Law.
Described as a “solid radioscopie of modern Russia,” the film is praised for its rhythm, performances, and often “passionate” storytelling. While acknowledged as “dense” and at times “too talkative,” “Le Mage du Kremlin” offers a compelling look at the intersection of power, intrigue, and the complexities of the Russian political landscape. Assayas’s work continues to demonstrate his talent for large-scale international narratives.
Navigating Love and Anxiety: “Amour Apocalypse”
In contrast to the political thriller, Anne Emond’s “Amour Apocalypse” presents a unique blend of romantic comedy and explorations of depression and eco-anxiety. The film draws heavily from the director’s personal experiences, utilizing humor as a means of “exorcising” difficult emotions.
The story centers on Adam, a man in his forties who owns a kennel and is searching for a partner. His quest leads him to fall for the customer service representative assisting him with a broken light therapy device – a search for both functional repair and personal healing.
“Amour Apocalypse” is lauded as an “original” and “charming” film, despite its willingness to embrace tonal shifts and tackle challenging themes. The film’s success builds on the momentum of “Simple comme Sylvain,” which previously received a César Award, highlighting the strength of contemporary comedy originating from Quebec.
