Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme is an unexpectedly optimistic narrative, despite featuring a profoundly immoral anti-hero at its core. Similar to many of Anderson’s earlier works—The Royal Tenenbaums, Asteroid City, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, and Fantastic Mr. Fox—this new film delves into the emotional intricacies of a flawed father aiming to mend his relationship with his children. However, this time, Anderson introduces a novel twist by framing the tale within an espionage thriller context.
Anderson’s distinctive aesthetic—characterized by deadpan acting, pastel hues, and meticulously crafted visuals—has frequently been regarded as excessively fanciful or “twee.” Nonetheless, beneath this visual style exists a continual examination of masculinity, ambition, and disjointed family relationships. In The Phoenician Scheme, Anderson immerses his universe in spies, assassins, explosions, and toxic gas, forging a striking yet engaging contrast between brutality and visual beauty. Central to the narrative is arguably his most emotionally impactful paternal figure to date.
A Father-Daughter Connection at the Heart
Benicio del Toro plays Zsa-zsa Korda, a well-known businessman with no national loyalty and a troubled history of dubious activities. He has endured numerous assassination attempts and survived six plane crashes, earning the ire of various governments, intelligence entities, and corporate opponents. However, as he feels the weight of mortality bearing down on him, Korda shifts his focus to his estranged daughter Liesl (Mia Threapleton), a novice preparing to commit to a life as a nun.
Korda’s objective is to lure Liesl away from religious life and mentor her as the successor to his empire. To accomplish this, he recruits her assistance in his most recent undertaking—“The Phoenician Scheme”—a colossal infrastructure initiative that includes tunnels, trains, and dams. In classic Anderson fashion, Korda elaborates on the project using a series of shoeboxes, each symbolizing a distinct part of the venture. Their expedition through 1950s Phoenicia introduces them to a vibrant cast of characters portrayed by Anderson regulars like Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Richard Ayoade, Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, and Benedict Cumberbatch, along with newcomers Michael Cera and Riz Ahmed.
Though Liesl maintains that she aspires to a life of simplicity and spiritual commitment, Korda attempts to sway her with extravagant gifts, including a jeweled rosary. As their journey unfolds, her appearance begins to change—white novice garments give way to red lipstick, green eyeshadow, and a golden dagger. Simultaneously, Korda starts to reflect on his own morals, contemplating whether his business approaches—rooted in slave labor and starvation—might be ethically questionable.
Del Toro and Threapleton Captivate
The emotional friction between Korda and Liesl is tangible. Liesl harbors resentment for her father’s emotional detachment and previous shortcomings, with their exchanges marked by a subtle intensity. When she accuses him of causing her mother’s death, her tone is calm yet resolute. Korda, on the other hand, blusters and deflects—tactics typical of his business dealings—but finds himself increasingly exposed in her company.
Del Toro skillfully balances Korda’s blustering bravado with a weary gentleness, reminiscent of his role in The French Dispatch. Threapleton, in contrast, is a revelation. With expressive eyes and a naturally solemn presence, she effectively conveys a broad spectrum of emotions with finesse and elegance. Her flat delivery adds a layer of dry humor, especially when she responds to Korda’s extravagant gestures with understated comments like “I love it,” followed by genuine actions.
Their interplay is both humorous and poignant, and Anderson amplifies it with physical comedy drawing inspiration from silent film icons like Buster Keaton. Characters confront peril with exaggerated stances and deadpan expressions, crafting a delightful juxtaposition between visual absurdity and emotional restraint.
Michael Cera Finds His Perfect Role
Michael Cera, portraying bug specialist Bjorn, stands out remarkably. Initially merely a background performer with a tuft of blond curls and a mountain of luggage, Bjorn slowly uncovers a more confident, even alluring aspect. His development is both comical and surprisingly endearing. Cera’s soft Swedish accent and quirky character make him a perfect match for Anderson’s realm, with his rapport with Threapleton adding another layer of warmth to the film.
Bjorn’s evolution from awkward companion to self-assured suitor forms one of the film’s most rewarding arcs. He is one of the few Anderson characters who unabashedly embraces his peculiarities, and Cera portrays him with a blend of sincerity and playfulness that is spot-on.
An Impressive Ensemble Cast
As always, Anderson assembles a premier cast for The Phoenician Scheme. Bill Murray and Willem Dafoe deliver memorable performances in a surreal black-and-white sequence depicting heavenly visions. Bryan Cranston and Tom Hanks shine in a brief but comical subplot focusing on wounded pride.