Wes Anderson’s latest film, The Phoenician Scheme, is a visually stunning caper about a ruthless business tycoon and his estranged daughter. However, for viewers unfamiliar with Anderson’s oeuvre, the film may feel like a puzzling collection of eccentric characters and events.
Anderson’s films often exist in relation to one another like objects on a collector’s shelf, inviting listing, ranking, and comparing. But what happens when you’re dropped into his world without prior knowledge? The Phoenician Scheme attempts to tell the story of Anatole “Zsa-zsa” Korda’s transformation from a destructive capitalist to a more humane version of himself.
Despite its impressive production design and cast, the film struggles to create emotional connections between its characters. Zsa-zsa, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, is meant to be a character in the tradition of Gene Hackman’s despicable yet poignant Royal Tenenbaum. However, his backstory remains unclear, making it difficult to invest in his character.
The script fails to elucidate how Korda became so alienated from his children or what internal process he finds his way back. The relationship between Korda and his daughter, Liesl, played by Mia Threapleton, is established early on but feels like a contrivance rather than a genuine human connection.
Cyril Lannoy, played by Riz Ahmed, is the standout in the huge cast. His low-key delivery is perfectly suited to Anderson’s rat-a-tat non sequiturs. Despite this, even Cera’s charming performance as the Norwegian insect enthusiast can’t elevate the film beyond its emotional limitations.
While The Phoenician Scheme may not be Anderson’s best work, it remains a testament to his imagination and creativity. The film’s intricate box-within-boxes compositions and cleverly designed sets are undeniable assets. Nevertheless, viewers may find themselves struggling to connect with the characters on an emotional level.
Source: https://slate.com/culture/2025/05/the-phoenician-scheme-wes-anderson-movie-michael-cera.html