Wes Anderson’s latest film, The Phoenician Scheme, is a visually stunning yet darkly satirical exploration of extreme wealth and its consequences. Set in the 1950s, the movie follows Anatole “Zsa-zsa” Korda, played by Benicio Del Toro, as he navigates his way through the world of international finance.
Korda’s obsession with accumulating wealth leads him to plan a massive infrastructure project in the Middle East, which puts him at odds with his estranged daughter, Liesl. Played by Mia Threapleton, Liesl is a novitiate who rejects her father’s corrupt business practices and grapples with her own faith and social justice.
The Phoenician Scheme is a complex web of characters, with Anderson bringing together many of his favorite actors, including Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Bill Murray, and Scarlett Johansson. However, it’s the performances of Threapleton and Del Toro that shine, making this one of Anderson’s most compelling stories.
One of the film’s central themes is the relationship between wealth and spirituality. Through Korda’s character, Anderson highlights the dark side of capitalism, where money can lead to exploitation and destruction. The movie also explores the idea that faith and social justice are often at odds with the pursuit of wealth.
Visually, The Phoenician Scheme is a masterpiece, with symmetrical compositions and exquisite textures and details. However, the film’s tone is darker than usual, with Anderson depicting scenes of violence and danger. The ending, which brings about a change of heart for Korda, raises questions about whether true redemption can come from within.
Overall, The Phoenician Scheme is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that exposes the hollowness of extreme wealth. With outstanding performances and a complex narrative, it’s a must-see for fans of Anderson and those interested in exploring the darker side of capitalism.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/05/30/nx-s1-5409087/wes-anderson-the-phoenician-scheme-review