Wes Anderson’s ‘The Phoenician Scheme’ Arrives: A deep Dive into His Signature Style

Wes Anderson’s new film, The Phoenician Scheme, is now in select theaters, expanding wide on June 6th. It’s a film brimming with familiar Andersonian touches: meticulously designed sets, a convoluted family dynamic, and at its heart, an eccentric patriarch.

This time, it’s Zsa-zsa Korda, portrayed by Benicio Del Toro, a wealthy and somewhat shady international businessman. Korda deals in “armaments, aviation, infrastructure, and the negotiation of clandestine trade agreements.”

A romantic Vision of the Past

Unlike Quentin Tarantino, who often revisits and alters history, Wes Anderson appears content to perpetually reside in an idealized version of it. Zsa-zsa, though a dubious character, possesses impeccable taste, a captivating spirit, and a genuine recognition for nature.

could today’s high-flying, rule-bending elite learn a thing or two from such imaginative and charismatic figures?

Near-Death Experiences and Family Reckoning

The film opens with Zsa-zsa aboard his private plane when disaster strikes: a fuselage panel detaches, leading to a crash landing. This brush with mortality triggers a series of surreal, black-and-white visions, reminiscent of Luis Bunuel, where Zsa-zsa faces a kind of otherworldly judgment.

These experiences prompt Zsa-zsa to reconnect with his daughter, liesl, played by mia Threapleton. Liesl,a nun in training,is drawn into her father’s latest ambitious scheme: “the Korda Land And Sea Phoenician Infrastructure Scheme.”

An Elaborate Scheme and Star-Studded Cast

The specifics of the scheme are less vital then the journey it entails. Liesl joins Zsa-zsa, along with the family’s eccentric Norwegian tutor and entomologist, Bjorn, portrayed by Michael Cera. Cera’s performance is a comedic highlight.

Tom Hanks and Bryan Cranston also shine as mustachioed West Coast businessmen, embroiled in a hilarious and competitive game of horse. This scene is a standout, but the film is filled with memorable moments.

Mayhem and Memorable Encounters

A meeting with Marseille Bob,a French nightclub owner played by Mathieu Amalric,erupts into chaos with armed revolutionaries. Ther’s also an absurd quicksand sequence and a slapstick brawl between Zsa-zsa and his brother, Uncle Nubar, brilliantly portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch.

The film reinforces why top-tier actors eagerly collaborate with Anderson, regardless of role size.Within his structured style, there’s ample room for actors to shine.

Benicio Del Toro’s Zsa-zsa Korda is a compelling, complex character.

Deeper Themes and Potential Redemption

Anderson’s films often reward multiple viewings due to their rich details and layered references. The Phoenician Scheme invites viewers to consider the motivations of characters like Zsa-zsa and whether redemption is possible.

Zsa-zsa himself suggests his childhood shaped his actions. Ultimately, the film posits that the drive to win, to outdo others, is a key motivator for such men.

But does Anderson believe a man like Zsa-zsa can truly change? The film suggests a glimmer of hope, an optimistic outlook from a director known for his consistent, recognizable style.

Wes Anderson’s Distinctive Style

Wes Anderson has carved a unique niche in cinema. His films are known for their symmetrical compositions, vibrant color palettes, and meticulously crafted worlds. The Grand Budapest Hotel, such as, showcases this aesthetic perfectly.

His dedication to detail, combined with quirky characters and deadpan humor, creates a viewing experience that is both visually stunning and intellectually engaging. The Royal Tenenbaums is another excellent example of his style.

Have you seen The Phoenician Scheme? What are your favorite Wes Anderson films? Share your thoughts in the comments below!