The $14 million “Putin” biopic appears to resonate globally amid geopolitical tensions. Ahead of its release in Polish cinemas on January 10, distribution rights have already been sold in more than 50 countries.

Preparing for the lead role, Polish actor Sławomir Sobala spent two years mastering Putin’s body language and mannerisms. The Russian leader’s face, however, has been supplied by AI.

“The audience needed to see the real Putin on screen,” said Vega, quoted by Britain’s The Telegraph. “Even the best actor with great make-up wouldn’t convincingly portray a figure everyone in the world knows so well.”

The movie depicts the Russian leader as ruthless and power-hungry, and blends dramatized episodes with fictionalized segments.

A young Putin is shown declaring, “It’s better to die standing than live on your knees,” while an older version appears in controversial scenes, including a hunting party whose ‘prey’ are women dressed as Playboy bunnies.

Critics expect controversy not only over the film’s content but also its methods, as the use of AI in the entertainment industry remains contentious.

The movie apparently aroused the interest of Russian intelligence operatives. Vega recounted an incident in which he said agents posing as U.S. buyers offered $200,000 for the film’s script.

Instead, Vega sent them the contact details of Poland’s intelligence agency. “The messages immediately stopped,” he said.

Despite risks tied to upsetting the Kremlin, Vega is undeterred. “Putin only understands the language of strength,” he said, emphasizing the importance of confronting authoritarianism.