Cover image: TUDUM by Netflix
The middle-aged lead role is played by Rachel Weisz, who also serves as co-director of the production.
From the start, it’s clear: the series blends dark humor, sensuality, and thought-provoking storytelling—offering a fresh perspective on female desire.
A Professor Confronts Unexpected Feelings
The story centers on an unnamed protagonist who is a writer, university professor, wife, and mother. Her career has stalled, fewer students enroll in her courses, and even her daughter Sid keeps her distance. As the monotony of daily life grows suffocating, she falls into an unexpected feeling: she becomes attracted to her young new colleague, Vladimir. This obsession is both liberating and risky, reigniting her creative energy and desires.
“The series explores what women might feel and how they allow themselves to desire,” said series creator Julia May Jonas.
The protagonist’s passion quickly becomes an escape from everyday dullness, while viewers get a glimpse into her mind and fantasies.
Desire, Power, and Taboo
The lead’s marriage is also in crisis; she has been in an open relationship with her husband John (John Slattery) for years, while he faces potential legal trouble over a past issue. The series not only focuses on female desire and obsession but also dives into campus sexual politics, power dynamics, and cancel culture.
As Weisz puts it:
“Her imagination is about the power of desire—the thrilling, inspiring feeling her obsession with Vladimir awakens in her.”
This story is about female empowerment, reigniting creative energy, and discovering personal desires.
The Man Who Brings Her Back to Life
Leo Woodall plays Vladimir, the young, charismatic writer and professor who quickly becomes the object of the protagonist’s desire. A key element of the series is the viewer’s constant doubt: is it friendship or flirtation? Reality or fantasy?
“The story is told from the protagonist’s perspective, so much is open to interpretation,” Woodall explains.
This uncertainty makes the story both exciting and captivating.
Breaking the Fourth Wall
Rachel Weisz’s character often speaks directly to the camera, giving viewers direct access to her thoughts—or at least what she wants us to believe. This technique is both entertaining and provocative: the protagonist is a reliable narrator yet manipulates her own story to stay in control.
According to Slattery, this draws viewers into the story and makes the character deeply human.
Why You Should Watch
The series is based on the bestselling novel Vladimir by Julia May Jonas, which was named Book of the Year by NPR, The Washington Post, and The Guardian. This eight-episode adaptation promises to exceed expectations: a work that entertains, challenges, and inspires.
Alongside Weisz, the cast includes John Slattery, Jessica Henwick, Ellen Robertson, and Kayli Carter, all adding depth to the characters and the tangled campus intrigues.
When Can You Watch?
Vladimir will be available on Netflix starting March 5. Meanwhile, check out the trailer and get ready to be swept into a world of erotic, mysterious, and captivating obsession.
