Unveiling ‘The Phoenician Scheme’ (2025): A Comprehensive Review by Roger Ebert

Wes Anderson’s latest film, "The Phoenician Scheme," is a delightful mix of humor and deeper themes. While it feels lighter than "Asteroid City," it still showcases Anderson’s signature style and craftsmanship. At first glance, the film seems like pure fun—there’s plenty of physical comedy and quirky moments. But beneath the surface, it raises questions about family versus business and the influence of powerful elites.

Benicio del Toro plays Zsa-zsa Korda, a businessman who has survived multiple assassination attempts. The film opens with a wild sequence where Korda survives a plane crash, setting the tone for his chaotic journey. He must name an heir to his empire, and while he has nine sons, his true focus is on his daughter Liesl, a nun portrayed by Mia Threapleton.

Korda’s mission is to teach Liesl the ropes while securing funding for a significant deal, this time prioritizing ethics over profit. His journey takes him across the globe, where he meets a colorful cast of characters—including Riz Ahmed as a prince and Tom Hanks and Bryan Cranston as brothers. Even with such star power, it’s Michael Cera who stands out. He plays an awkward tutor with a secret, delivering a layered performance that captures Anderson’s unique dialogue style.

While "The Phoenician Scheme" offers comedic moments, the plot can feel aimless. Its murder mystery subplot involving Liesl’s mother is murky, leaving viewers puzzled about Korda’s true objectives. The film sometimes loses pace, making it hard to grasp the significance of various characters and their interactions.

Beyond its humor, "The Phoenician Scheme" touches on themes of redemption and moral questioning. Korda’s near-death experiences lead him to reflect on his life, contrasting his worldly power with the idea of a righteous existence. Anderson uses religious imagery to explore these notions, creating a more thoughtful narrative than his earlier works.

Korda summarizes his life with two mottos: “Who could lick who” and “If something gets in your way, flatten it.” These ideas paint a stark picture of his character. Ultimately, "The Phoenician Scheme" serves as Anderson’s contemplation on the duality of success and integrity, inviting us to ponder what truly matters in life.

Interestingly, user reactions have varied. Some fans appreciate the blend of humor and depth, while others find the plot lacking. Despite these mixed reviews, it’s clear that Anderson’s film sparks conversation about power and morality.

In a world where powerful figures often manipulate for their gain, this film resonates. Perhaps it’s not so light-hearted after all.

For more insights into Wes Anderson’s themes, check out this NPR discussion.

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