
The Phoenician Scheme
dir. Wes Anderson
69
8 sourcesSynopsis
Wealthy businessman Zsa-zsa Korda appoints his only daughter, a nun, as sole heir to his estate. As Korda embarks on a new enterprise, they soon become the target of scheming tycoons, foreign terrorists, and determined assassins.
Critics consensus
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.
Audience consensus
Another meticulously staged production by Wes Anderson, The Phoenician Scheme is an A-list variety show that will particularly tickle Andersonites with its whimsical dead-pan delivery of verbal delicacies.
What resonated with audiences
'The Phoenician Scheme' features Wes Anderson's signature style with symmetrical compositions, vibrant colors, and whimsical dialogue. The film explores themes of family dynamics, business intrigue, and moral dilemmas. The ensemble cast, including Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, and Michael Cera, delivers standout performances. The cinematography and production design are praised for their meticulous detail and creativity. However, some reviewers find the plot convoluted and the humor hit-or-miss. The film's pacing and emotional depth are also points of contention, with some finding it engaging and others feeling it lacks substance. Overall, 'The Phoenician Scheme' is seen as a visually stunning but narratively uneven addition to Anderson's filmography.

Directed byWes Anderson
StarringBenicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, Michael Cera, Riz Ahmed, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston
Written byWes Anderson, Roman Coppola
CinematographyBruno Delbonnel
EditingBarney Pilling
MusicAlexandre Desplat
The Phoenician Scheme
2025 · PG-13 · 1h 42m
Comedy, Adventure, Crime
Wealthy businessman Zsa-zsa Korda appoints his only daughter, a nun, as sole heir to his estate. As Korda embarks on a new enterprise, they soon become the target of scheming tycoons, foreign terrorists, and determined assassins.
Our Verdict
69
'The Phoenician Scheme' features Wes Anderson's signature style with symmetrical compositions, vibrant colors, and whimsical dialogue. The film explores themes of family dynamics, business intrigue, and moral dilemmas. The ensemble cast, including Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, and Michael Cera, delivers standout performances. The cinematography and production design are praised for their meticulous detail and creativity. However, some reviewers find the plot convoluted and the humor hit-or-miss. The film's pacing and emotional depth are also points of contention, with some finding it engaging and others feeling it lacks substance. Overall, 'The Phoenician Scheme' is seen as a visually stunning but narratively uneven addition to Anderson's filmography.
Critics Consensus
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.
Audience Consensus
Another meticulously staged production by Wes Anderson, The Phoenician Scheme is an A-list variety show that will particularly tickle Andersonites with its whimsical dead-pan delivery of verbal delicacies.
