Wes Anderson’s latest cinematic confection has finally emerged from its perfectly symmetrical chrysalis, and darlings, it’s everything we hoped for — and then some. “The Phoenician Scheme” isn’t just another entry in Anderson’s whimsical portfolio; it’s shaping up to be the most talked-about indie sensation since A24’s Oscar sweep last year.
The newly-dropped trailer serves up Benicio del Toro as Zsa-zsa Korda (and yes, that name is absolutely meant to be drawled over a martini). Del Toro, fresh off his surprising turn in last fall’s “Dune: Messiah,” brings his signature brooding intensity to the role of Europe’s most enigmatic weapons dealer-slash-aviation mogul.
Here’s where things get deliciously complicated. Enter Mia Threapleton — Kate Winslet’s daughter, for those keeping score — donning a nun’s habit as Sister Liesl. When daddy dearest takes an unexpected nosedive (literally), she inherits his empire, setting up what promises to be the most stylishly dysfunctional father-daughter drama since “Succession” took its final bow.
Anderson, speaking to Le Monde back in ’23, dropped this little bon mot: “My next feature film will be linear, with Benicio Del Toro in every shot…” Well, honey, when Wes Anderson promises “linear,” you know there’s bound to be a twist sharper than this season’s Balenciaga collection.
The supporting cast? Simply divine. Michael Cera (still riding high from his Emmy nod) plays Bjorn Lund, a tutor whose awkward flirtations practically scream “Anderson archetype.” Then there’s the usual suspects: Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Scarlett Johansson (taking a breather from her Broadway run), Benedict Cumberbatch, and — because the universe demands balance — Bill Murray.
But wait — plot twist behind the camera! Anderson’s longtime visual collaborator Robert Yeoman isn’t calling the shots this time. Instead, French cinematographer Bruno Delbonnel (whose work on “Inside Llewyn Davis” still haunts dreams) is bringing his moody magic to Anderson’s meticulously crafted world. Shot at Babelsburg Studios — where “Grand Budapest Hotel” worked its charm — this change-up feels like watching your favorite restaurant bring in a Michelin-starred guest chef.
Focus Features has penciled in a May 30 limited release, expanding nationwide June 6 — just in time to serve as counterprogramming to whatever superhero spectacle Marvel’s cooking up for summer ’25. Word on the street suggests Cannes is practically salivating to add this to their lineup (announcement due April 10, but who’s counting?).
In an age where streaming algorithms keep force-feeding us recycled franchise fare, Anderson’s latest feels like stumbling into a vintage champagne bar when you’re desperate for something — anything — besides mass-produced cola. Whether “The Phoenician Scheme” will join the pantheon of Anderson’s greatest hits remains to be seen, but darling, at least it’s giving us something fresh to gossip about over brunch.
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