New Movies: The Phoenician Scheme (2025) by Wes Anderson: A Whimsical Spy Comedy About Family and Oligarchies
- dailyentertainment95
- Jun 24
- 11 min read
Core Summary: A Eccentric Billionaire, His Nun Daughter, and a Secretary Embark on a Globetrotting Escape from Assassins While Pursuing a Shady Business Deal. The Phoenician Scheme (2025), directed by Wes Anderson, is a black comedy spy thriller that tells the story of Zsa-zsa Korda (Benicio del Toro), a wealthy and controversial businessman targeted by repeated assassination attempts. To secure his empire, Korda appoints his estranged daughter, Liesl (Mia Threapleton), a nun, as his sole heir. Along with his administrative secretary, Bjorn Lund (Michael Cera), they embark on a chaotic global journey to woo investors for a massive infrastructure project in the fictional country of Phoenicia, all while dodging assassins, foreign terrorists, and devious tycoons. The film blends Anderson's signature whimsical style with darker undertones, exploring themes of family, religion, capitalism's impact, and a quest for purpose.
Summary Short: A wealthy businessman and his nun daughter travel the world, dodging assassins and shady rivals, to secure a controversial business empire.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt30840798/
About movie: https://focusfeatures.com/the-phoenician-scheme/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/au/movie/the-phoenician-scheme (Australia), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/the-phoenician-scheme (UK)
Detailed Summary: A Father-Daughter Caper Across a Corrupt World
Film Overview: The Phoenician Scheme (2025) is an American/German co-production, a black comedy spy thriller/drama directed by Wes Anderson. The screenplay is by Wes Anderson, with a story by Anderson and Roman Coppola. It has a running time of 101 minutes and is rated PG-13 for violent content, bloody images, some sexual material, nude images, and smoking throughout.
The Protagonist - Zsa-zsa Korda: The story revolves around Zsa-zsa Korda (Benicio del Toro), an international maverick businessman with a controversial past, including hints of slave labor and causing famine. After surviving multiple assassination attempts and even experiencing brief "trips" to the afterlife, he realizes someone wants him dead.
An Unexpected Heir: Estranging himself from his nine sons, Korda makes a surprising choice: he appoints his long-unseen daughter, Liesl (Mia Threapleton), a nun, as the sole heir to his vast estate. This move is intended to secure the future of his empire.
The Global Scheme: Korda, Liesl, and Korda's administrative secretary, Bjorn Lund (Michael Cera), embark on a globetrotting journey. Their mission is to meet with eccentric investors (tycoons, titans, barons) to secure funding for "The Korda Land And Sea Phoenician Infrastructure Scheme," an ambitious and possibly unethical venture to exploit resources in the fictional country of Phoenicia for profit spanning 150 years.
Dodging Danger: Throughout their journey, the trio constantly dodges assassination attempts, encounters foreign terrorists, and navigates the treacherous world of devious tycoons. The chaos is interspersed with Anderson's characteristic deadpan humor, including giving out hand grenades as "peace offerings."
Liesl's Condition: Liesl agrees to join her father only on one condition: that he reveals a long-kept secret. This adds a layer of personal drama to the high-stakes corporate espionage.
Themes Explored: The film subtly touches upon themes of finding belonging in family and religion, the afterlife, and how oligarchies and shady business practices affect politics and the world. It explores whether someone who has lived a life of "mischief" can find purpose or redemption.
Anderson's Signature Style: The film features Anderson's trademark meticulous set designs, symmetrical compositions, deadpan humor, fast-paced and confusing monologues, and a star-studded ensemble cast.
Plot Summary: From Assassination Attempts to Infrastructure Dreams
The Billionaire's Predicament: Zsa-zsa Korda, a globally notorious and unscrupulous businessman, has narrowly survived numerous assassination attempts. Believing his days are numbered, and seeking to safeguard his vast, ethically questionable empire, he makes a radical decision: he disinherits his nine sons and names his estranged daughter, Liesl, a dedicated nun, as his sole heir.
A Daughter's Reluctance and a Secret: Liesl, bewildered by her father's sudden appearance and bizarre proposal, agrees to join him on his latest venture only if he finally reveals a long-held family secret. Korda accepts, and along with his perpetually flustered administrative secretary, Bjorn Lund, the unlikely trio embarks on a whirlwind global tour.
The Phoenician Infrastructure Scheme: Their objective is to secure investments for "The Korda Land And Sea Phoenician Infrastructure Scheme," a grand project in the fictional nation of Phoenicia. Korda pitches it as a venture that will yield profits for a century and a half, though hints of its morally dubious nature, including potential exploitation and corporate malfeasance, are peppered throughout his rambling monologues.
A High-Stakes Chase: The journey is a constant, comedic, and perilous caper. They are pursued by relentless assassins, cunning rival tycoons, and various international adversaries. Plane crashes, strange meetings, and unexpected acts (like distributing hand grenades as goodwill gestures) become routine as Korda attempts to navigate the treacherous landscape of global finance and espionage.
Unexamined Ramifications: While the film's fast pace and comedic absurdity keep the audience engaged, the darker implications of Korda's past actions (slave labor, causing famine) and the broader effects of oligarchies are presented through quick, confusing bursts rather than deep examination.
The Heart of the Story: Despite the convoluted plot, the characters, particularly the dynamic between the amoral Korda, the earnest Liesl, and the drolly bewildered Bjorn, drive the film. Liesl's journey, in particular, offers a subtle exploration of a quest for purpose and whether redemption is possible for someone like her father, culminating in a bittersweet yet definitive end to their adventure.
Director's Vision: Wes Anderson's Distinctive Cinematic Universe Wes Anderson (born 1969, Houston, Texas) is an acclaimed American film director, screenwriter, and producer, known for his unique, highly stylized visual and narrative approach. His filmography includes The Royal Tenenbaums, The Grand Budapest Hotel, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Isle of Dogs, and Asteroid City. For The Phoenician Scheme, Anderson continues to build on his signature style:
Meticulous Aesthetic: Features his trademark "meticulous set designs," "symmetrical compositions," and distinct visual palette.
Ensemble Comedy with Melancholy: A blend of "whimsical charm, ensemble comedy and rollicking mid-century adventure with an edge of quiet melancholy."
Returning Ensemble Cast: Continues his practice of working with a familiar ensemble of actors, including many of his long-time collaborators and new additions.
Deadpan Humor: Relies on "dry humour" and "monotonous line delivery" to create his characteristic comedic tone.
Exploration of Dysfunctional Families: The father-daughter relationship is central, exploring themes of belonging, inheritance, and the legacy of family business.
Moral Ambiguity and Redemption: Addresses themes of an amoral industrialist's quest for purpose and whether redemption is achievable, though often through comedic and absurd means.
Operatic Qualities: The film has "operatic qualities" and unfolds in a "whimsical world," creating an immersive, self-aware cinematic experience.
Themes: Oligarchy and Power, Family (Dysfunctional, Legacy, Belonging), Redemption and Purpose, Capitalism and Exploitation, Secrecy, Assassination, Absurdity of Wealth, and Faith.
Oligarchy and Corporate Malfeasance: Explores the shadowy world of powerful businessmen, their unethical practices, and their impact on global politics and infrastructure.
Dysfunctional Family Dynamics: The strained relationship between Korda and Liesl, and the complexities of inheritance and legacy within an eccentric family.
Quest for Purpose and Redemption: Korda's internal struggle with his past "mischief" and a desire for something more meaningful, subtly explored through his experiences.
Capitalism and Exploitation: The film touches on the dark side of business ventures, including hints of slave labor and environmental damage.
The Absurdity of Wealth and Power: Presented through whimsical and often dark comedic moments, highlighting the detached reality of the super-rich.
Faith and Morality: Liesl's role as a nun introduces a moral counterpoint to Korda's amoral world, and Korda's "trips to the afterlife" hint at a spiritual dimension.
Key Success Factors: Director's Signature Style, Star-Studded Ensemble, Genre Blend, Festival Buzz
Wes Anderson's Distinctive Vision: His highly recognizable aesthetic and narrative style attract a dedicated fanbase.
All-Star Ensemble Cast: Features a massive and impressive lineup of renowned actors, a hallmark of Anderson's films.
Intriguing Genre Blend: Combines elements of spy thriller, black comedy, and family drama for a unique cinematic experience.
Strong Critical Reception: Early reviews indicate it's "Certified Fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics finding it entertaining and visually rich.
Festival and Limited Release Buzz: Its curated release strategy creates anticipation among cinephiles.
Summary Short: May 2025 Limited Release (Focus Features), Expands June 2025, Critically Positive, Ensemble Spy Black Comedy. The Phoenician Scheme (2025), directed by Wes Anderson, was released in limited theaters on May 30, 2025, by Focus Features, and expanded nationwide on June 6, 2025. It is an espionage black comedy starring Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, and Michael Cera, with a large ensemble cast. The film received generally positive reviews, holding a "Certified Fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes (79%) and a "generally favorable" score on Metacritic (69). Its worldwide box office grossed approximately $32.02 million on a reported budget of $50 million, making it a commercial disappointment despite its critical reception.
Awards & Nominations: Cannes Film Festival Recognition (Expected) While official award announcements for 2025 are still pending for many ceremonies, the search results indicate that The Phoenician Scheme is anticipated to be a strong contender in major film festivals, particularly the Cannes Film Festival. Searches for its awards yield a list of potential Cannes awards, suggesting it may have premiered or been highly anticipated there, or it aligns with the type of film that garners such attention.
Anticipated Cannes Recognition: Palme d'Or, Cannes Best Actress/Actor, Grand Prix, Jury Prize, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Special Jury Prize.
These are aspirational or projected awards based on the film's profile and director's reputation, rather than confirmed wins as of the current date.
Critics Reception: Generally Positive, Praise for Style and Leads, Some Repetition Concerns The Phoenician Scheme (2025) has received generally positive reviews from critics.
Rotten Tomatoes: Holds a "Certified Fresh" rating of 79% based on 197 critics' reviews, with a consensus describing it as "A caper made with all the intricacy of a Rube Goldberg machine, The Phoenician Scheme doesn't deviate from Wes Anderson's increasingly ornate style but delivers the formula with mannered delicacy."
Metacritic: Scored 69 out of 100 based on 49 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews."
Key Praises:
Signature Anderson Style: Critics widely lauded the film for its recognizable aesthetic, meticulous production design, and deadpan humor. (Screen Daily, The Oxford Student, Cinema Express)
Strong Lead Performances: Benicio del Toro's rare leading role is praised for delighting viewers. Michael Cera's performance as Bjorn Lund is highlighted as "revelatory" and one of the "best fits of performer and director maybe ever." Mia Threapleton's turn as Liesl is noted as a "breakout surprise" and a "stealth emotional weapon." (RogerEbert.com, Golden Age Cinema and Bar, New Yorker)
Entertaining Caper: Many found it a "treat," a "lovely lark," and "thoroughly entertained," particularly for its "gloriously ridiculous" moments. (New Statesman, Austin Chronicle, Sydney Morning Herald)
Subtle Emotional Depth: Some critics noted "raw emotion" peeking out at unexpected times and a "rather beautiful conclusion of simplicity and acceptance" in the father-daughter relationship. (Slant Magazine, News.co.uk)
Common Criticisms:
Overindulgence/Repetition of Style: Some felt Anderson's "increasingly ornate style" was becoming "overindulgent" or "repetitive," bordering on "self-parody." (The Oxford Student, Cinema Express, Salon.com)
Lack of Emotional Connection: A few critics found the film to be "sleepy," "drippy," or lacking an "emotional centre," stating that the plot didn't "touch me on an emotional level." (Globe and Mail, Kermode and Mayo's Take)
Convoluted Plot/Rushed Exposition: Some found the plot "contrived" or "confusing," with exposition feeling "rushed," making it hard to grasp the underlying themes fully. (The Oxford Student, Cinema Express)
Overall, The Phoenician Scheme is seen as a quintessential Wes Anderson film that delivers on his signature style and humor, with strong performances, but may leave some viewers wishing for deeper emotional engagement or a less convoluted narrative.
Reviews: Positive from Anderson Fans, Mixed from Others Reviews indicate that fans of Wes Anderson's distinct style will likely enjoy The Phoenician Scheme, while those less accustomed to or growing tired of his specific approach might find it less engaging. Audience reception is expected to be generally positive, aligning with the "Certified Fresh" critical consensus.
Box Office: Commercial Disappointment Despite Critical Acclaim The Phoenician Scheme (2025) grossed approximately $32.02 million worldwide against a reported production budget of $50 million, making it a commercial disappointment.
Domestic Box Office (US & Canada): $16.22 million.
International Box Office: $15.80 million.
Domestic Release: Limited release on May 30, 2025, expanding wide on June 6, 2025, by Focus Features.
International Release: Began May 23, 2025 (United Kingdom), with subsequent wide releases in various territories.
Performance Context: While it landed the "Top Limited Opening Of 2025" for specialty box office, its overall performance is comparable to or slightly below Anderson's recent films like The French Dispatch ($46 million worldwide) and Asteroid City ($54 million worldwide), neither of which were major box office successes given their budgets.
Production Summary: A German-American Co-Production with Anderson's Regular Collaborators The Phoenician Scheme (2025) is a co-production between Germany and the United States.
Director: Wes Anderson
Screenplay: Wes Anderson
Story by: Wes Anderson, Roman Coppola
Producers: Wes Anderson, Steven Rales, Jeremy Dawson, John Peet
Cinematography: Bruno Delbonnel
Production Design: Adam Stockhausen
Editing: Barney Pilling
Composer: Alexandre Desplat
Production/Financing Companies:
American Empirical Pictures (Wes Anderson's production company)
Studio Babelsberg (German studio, a frequent collaborator on Anderson's European-set films)
Sales Companies:
(Not explicitly detailed, but typically handled by major studios or specialized sales agents)
Distribution Companies:
Focus Features (Domestic in the United States, a Universal subsidiary)
Universal Pictures (Worldwide distribution)
Release Date on Streaming:
Theatrical Exclusivity: Like most of Wes Anderson's films, The Phoenician Scheme was released exclusively in theaters first.
PVOD/VOD: Expected to arrive on premium video-on-demand (PVOD) storefronts (like Amazon) weeks or months after its theatrical debut.
SVOD: It is anticipated to stream on Peacock (given Focus Features' parent company, Universal), with a best guess for release in mid to late July 2025, typically 6-8 weeks after its wide theatrical release. (This is an estimate, official date not confirmed.)
Theatrical Release:
Limited Release (US): May 30, 2025
Wide Release (US): June 6, 2025
International Releases: Began May 23, 2025 (e.g., UK), with subsequent releases across Europe, Latin America, and Asia Pacific.
Cast:
Benicio del Toro as Zsa-zsa Korda
Mia Threapleton as Liesl (the nun daughter)
Michael Cera as Bjorn Lund (administrative secretary)
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
Bill Murray
Riz Ahmed
Antonia Desplat
Alex Jennings
Aysha Joy Samuel
Stéphane Bak
Director:
Wes Anderson
Why to Recommend this Movie: Signature Style, Stellar Cast, and Quirky Adventure
Distinctive Wes Anderson Film: For fans of his unique visual style, deadpan humor, and ensemble cast.
All-Star Ensemble: Features a massive and impressive lineup of beloved actors.
Intriguing Plot: A whimsical spy comedy with an eccentric billionaire and his nun daughter on a globetrotting adventure, dodging assassins.
Themes of Family and Redemption: Explores deeper themes beneath the surface of the comedic chaos.
Visually Engaging: Promises stunning cinematography and meticulously crafted production design.
Why to Watch Movie: If You Love Quirky Comedies, Stylized Cinema, and Ensemble Casts
You are a devoted fan of Wes Anderson's previous works and unique aesthetic.
You enjoy black comedies with a blend of action, espionage, and family drama.
You want to see a large ensemble of acclaimed actors delivering quirky performances.
You appreciate films that offer a distinct visual experience and a dry, often melancholic, sense of humor.
You're curious about a story that combines international intrigue with a personal quest for purpose and family connection.
Movie Trend: Auteur's Evolving Signature, Ensemble Casts, and Stylized Genre Blends The Phoenician Scheme (2025) epitomizes the ongoing trend of a prominent "Auteur's Evolving Signature," as Wes Anderson continues to refine and potentially push the boundaries of his highly recognizable style. It heavily relies on the "Ensemble Cast Phenomenon," a hallmark of Anderson's work and a popular draw for audiences. The film's blend of black comedy, spy thriller, and family drama exemplifies "Stylized Genre Blends," creating a unique cinematic niche. Despite its commercial underperformance, its critical reception within a specific niche highlights the continued importance of "Art House and Festival Cinema" even in a blockbuster-dominated landscape.
Social Trend: Corporate Ethics, Generational Legacies, and the Absurdity of Wealth The film's focus on a "controversial businessman" and his "shady business tactics" resonates with contemporary social trends concerning "Corporate Ethics and Accountability," particularly regarding global infrastructure projects and their impact on local populations. The dynamic between Zsa-zsa Korda and his daughter Liesl touches upon "Generational Legacies" and how individuals grapple with the moral baggage of their family's past. Furthermore, the film's whimsical yet unsettling portrayal of a wealthy elite navigating assassination attempts and global schemes highlights the "Absurdity and Detachment of Extreme Wealth," a theme increasingly explored in modern media. Liesl's journey as a nun also introduces a contrasting element of "Faith and Morality in a Corrupt World."
Final Verdict: A Quintessential Anderson Caper - Visually Rich, Humorously Dark, and Endearingly Eccentric The Phoenician Scheme (2025) is a visually stunning, meticulously crafted, and often hilarious black comedy spy thriller that is undeniably a Wes Anderson film through and through. While its intricate plot and rapid-fire dialogue might require active viewing, the film delights with its signature style, an exceptional ensemble cast led by a compelling Benicio del Toro and a revelatory Michael Cera, and a surprisingly tender core about family and the search for meaning in a corrupt world. Despite its commercial struggles, it's a treat for Anderson aficionados and anyone looking for a unique, quirky, and darkly humorous cinematic adventure.
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