The Phoenician Scheme: A Cinematic Exploration of Family and Espionage

Wes Anderson's latest film, "The Phoenician Scheme," delves into the intricate dynamics of family and business within a stylized espionage narrative. The story centers on Anatole "Zsa-Zsa" Korda, a wealthy and unscrupulous European industrialist, portrayed by Benicio del Toro. After surviving an assassination attempt, Korda seeks to mend his strained relationship with his daughter, Sister Liesl, a Catholic novice played by Mia Threapleton. Together, they embark on a journey to navigate the challenges posed by Korda's business ventures and the threats against them.

The film features an ensemble cast, including Michael Cera as Bjørn, a Norwegian entomologist and Korda's administrative assistant. Other notable actors include Riz Ahmed, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Mathieu Amalric, Richard Ayoade, Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Rupert Friend, Hope Davis, F. Murray Abraham, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Willem Dafoe, and Bill Murray. The production took place at Babelsberg Studio in Germany, with cinematography by Bruno Delbonnel and a score composed by Alexandre Desplat.

Upon its release, "The Phoenician Scheme" received generally positive reviews. Critics praised Anderson's unique blend of comedy, drama, and adventure, highlighting the film's visual style and the performances of the cast. The film premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and was released theatrically in the United States on May 30, 2025, followed by a nationwide release on June 6, 2025. It is currently available for streaming on Peacock.