Uristocrat Preview: The Phoenician Scheme by Wes Anderson
Key Takeaways
- Director: Wes Anderson
- Genre: Espionage comedy-drama with Anderson's signature style
- Setting: 1950s fictional Middle Eastern country, Phoenicia
- Cast: Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, Michael Cera, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, and others
- Runtime: 105 minutes
- Release Date: May 30, 2025 (U.S. theaters)
Overview
Wes Anderson's latest film, The Phoenician Scheme, offers a whimsical yet poignant tale set in the fictional country of Phoenicia during the 1950s. The story follows Anatole "Zsa-zsa" Korda (Benicio del Toro), a wealthy industrialist with grand plans for an infrastructure project. After surviving an assassination attempt, Korda seeks to reconcile with his estranged daughter, Liesl (Mia Threapleton), a novice nun, inviting her to be his heir and partner in his ambitious venture.
The film delves into themes of wealth, legacy, and redemption, all wrapped in Anderson's distinctive visual and narrative style. Critics have noted that while the film maintains Anderson's signature aesthetics, it also ventures into darker and more emotional territory, exploring the complexities of familial relationships and the moral ambiguities of ambition.
A Moment to Remember: The Bathtub Scene
One of the most talked-about scenes at the Angelika screening was what fans are calling “the bathtub scene”—a single-take sequence set in a tiled, sunlit bathroom where Anatole Korda (Benicio del Toro) soaks in a clawfoot tub. Shot in overhead symmetry with gentle pastel lighting, the scene merges comedy and existential unease.
Benicio del Toro initially questioned the unique way director Wes Anderson wanted to shoot the slow-motion bathtub scene. Anderson instructed the actors to perform their actions rapidly while filming in slow motion, a technique that del Toro found perplexing. However, after spending about eight hours filming the choreographed scene in a bathtub, he was impressed by its unique, ballet-like quality and felt it was worth the effort. Despite generally avoiding watching his own performances, del Toro found the scene visually striking and was pleased with the outcome.
Critical Reception
The Phoenician Scheme has garnered generally positive reviews, with critics praising its rich visuals, compelling performances, and emotional depth. Mia Threapleton's portrayal of Liesl has been highlighted as a standout, bringing a nuanced performance that complements del Toro's complex depiction of Korda.
While some reviewers have pointed out the film's intricate plot and dense narrative, many agree that it offers a rewarding experience for fans of Anderson's work, blending his trademark whimsy with a more mature exploration of themes like mortality and moral responsibility.
What's Next?
The Phoenician Scheme is currently playing in select theaters across the United States. For those unable to attend the theatrical release, the film is expected to be available for digital purchase by late June or early July, with streaming on Peacock anticipated by mid-to-late July 2025.
