The Phoenician Scheme Movies (2025) – Wes Anderson’s Quirky Espionage Adventure

Wes Anderson returns with The Phoenician Scheme Movies (2025), a stylish espionage black comedy that blends intrigue, eccentric humor, and philosophical musings. Featuring an ensemble cast including Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, Michael Cera, Riz Ahmed, and Tom Hanks, the film delivers Anderson’s signature *symmetrical cinematography, pastel color palettes, and deadpan performances2.

set in the 1950s, the film follows Anatole “Zsa-Zsa” Korda (Benicio del Toro), a wealthy industrialist and arms dealer who narrowly survives an assassination attempt. Seeking to secure his empire, he appoints his estranged daughter, Sister Liesl (Mia Threapleton), as his temporary successor. Liesl, a novice nun, reluctantly joins her father on a globetrotting journey to finance his ambitious infrastructure project in the fictional country of *Phoenicia3.

Alongside Bjorn Lund (Michael Cera), a Norwegian entomologist turned secretary, Korda navigates shady deals, double-crosses, and existential reckonings. The film’s absurd yet captivating moments, including a basketball game of H-O-R-S-E with a Middle Eastern prince (Riz Ahmed), add to its offbeat charm.

Anderson’s meticulous craftsmanship shines through in The Phoenician Scheme, offering visually stunning set designs and quirky storytelling. Benicio del Toro delivers a magnetic performance, portraying Korda as a morally ambiguous yet oddly sympathetic tycoon. Mia Threapleton anchors the film with her dry wit and emotional depth, making her dynamic with Korda one of the film’s highlights.

While the film’s episodic structure and self-aware eccentricity may feel disjointed, its witty dialogue and absurd scenarios keep audiences engaged. Anderson’s trademark aesthetic remains intact, though some critics argue it leans too heavily on visual symmetry rather than narrative depth.

The Phoenician Scheme (2025) is a charming, visually rich, and delightfully odd espionage romp. While not Anderson’s most profound work, it’s a must-watch for fans of his unique storytelling style.