Actor and filmmaker Paul Dano recently sat down with Collider's Steven Weintraub to discuss his extensive career, his latest film, "The Wizard of the Kremlin," and future projects including a follow-up to his directorial debut, "Wildlife," and potential involvement in Matt Reeves' "The Batman" sequel. Dano, known for his diverse roles and collaborations with influential filmmakers like Steven Spielberg and Paul Thomas Anderson, reflected on his filmography and shared insights into his creative process.

In Olivier Assayas' political thriller "The Wizard of the Kremlin," Dano portrays Vadim Baranov, a fictional TV filmmaker turned consultant who becomes Vladimir Putin's right-hand man, played by Jude Law. The film, based on Giuliano da Empoli's novel, delves into Baranov's personal and public life as he helps construct Putin's image of ultimate power. Dano was drawn to the project by Assayas' filmmaking, the script's compelling, dense, and hyper-intellectual nature, and its exploration of a world he knew little about, which he found relevant to modern politics and power. He approached Baranov's physicality and voice by perceiving him as a "wizard" casting a spell, a soft-spoken theater director operating from the background, focusing on the character's language and subtle cadence.

Dano highlighted a particularly "disturbing" moment when watching an early cut of the film: seeing Baranov play lovingly with his child after witnessing his ethically questionable acts. This scene underscored the theme of "complicity in evil" for Dano, prompting reflection on how individuals in power, making decisions many might disagree with, often return to seemingly normal domestic lives. He pondered how talents might be rewarded in "the wrong way" and the ease with which people can compromise their principles when seeking meaning or recognition, emphasizing the importance of a strong internal compass.

Looking ahead, Dano expressed his eagerness to return to the director's chair, hoping to make his next film in the coming year. He revealed that the script for his "Wildlife" follow-up is complete and describes it as "really different" from his debut, hinting at a more "movie-movie" approach in terms of camera language and genre, suggesting it could be "really fun."

The conversation also touched upon legendary director Steven Spielberg. When asked about his favorite Spielberg films, Dano cited "Close Encounters" as one he watches regularly, and acknowledged "Jaws" as an enduring masterpiece. He also praised "Jurassic Park," calling it "underrated" and a "masterpiece" despite its reputation as a popcorn movie. Dano also marvelled at Spielberg's extraordinary achievement of releasing both "Jurassic Park" and "Schindler's List" in the same year, 1993.

Regarding Matt Reeves' highly anticipated "The Batman" sequel, Dano, who played The Riddler in the first film, expressed his immense excitement for the project. While he doesn't know if he'll be part of it, he hopes he'll "get to dance again," signaling his desire to reprise his role. He acknowledged knowing "very little bit" about the script but is excited by what he does know, crediting Reeves' "caring and obsessive" approach and perfectionism for the quality of the films.

Reflecting on his career, Dano recalled his initial fear of being typecast early on, particularly after playing a "dorky guy with glasses." He credits "The Ballad of Jack and Rose" as a pivotal role that allowed him to play someone distinctly different from himself, building his confidence as an actor. Among his past projects, he hopes more audiences discover "Love & Mercy" and "Swiss Army Man," the latter for its playful message about being true to oneself. "The Wizard of the Kremlin" is currently in theaters.