The Phoenician Scheme is another visual treat from Wes Anderson. It gives you exactly what you expect from him: colorful sets, perfect symmetry and tiny details in every corner. Watching it felt like stepping into one of his handmade worlds where every shot looks like a painting.
The story follows Benicio del Toro as Korda, a ruthless businessman who somehow survives one attempt on his life after another. He pulls his estranged daughter Liesl a nun into his plan to secure an inheritance and get involved in a big deal called “The Phoenician Scheme.” Mia Threapleton shines as Liesl calm and emotional at the same time. Del Toro brings a mix of menace and dry humor while Michael Cera adds his own odd funny touch as a quirky assistant.
One of the film’s strongest parts is the soundtrack. The music isn’t just background noise it sets the tone for each scene. A single tune can make something feel sad funny or even tense. By the time it ended I felt like I’d heard the film as much as I’d watched it.
And then there’s the basketball scene which is hilarious. Seeing Bryan Cranston Riz Ahmed and Tom Hanks running around in that carefully staged chaos is both funny and strangely moving. The mix of their straight faces with Anderson’s quirky style makes it one of the best moments in the whole movie. It’s the kind of scene you know you’ll remember long after the credits roll.
The plot itself doesn’t rush. It’s not about big twists or action. Instead it lingers on looks objects and strange conversations. By the end I didn’t care if everything was explained. What mattered was the feeling of being inside this world for two hours. With its visuals music and performances The Phoenician Scheme is classic Wes Anderson odd funny and unexpectedly heartfelt.
If you love his style you’ll enjoy it. If you want a straight emotional story you might find it more style than substance.