Wes Anderson Unveils ‘The Phoenician Scheme’: Behind-the-Scenes with Gene Hackman and Cannes Adventures

CANNES, France (AP) — Wes Anderson isn’t at the wheel; that’s Laurent’s job. He’s the one driving Anderson’s bus to the Cannes Film Festival. Anderson, on the road from Paris to the South of France, joked, “I don’t drive the bus. You need four years of training and an EU license. Plus, you need to know how to reverse it!”

Anderson has a quirky tradition of taking his bus to Cannes instead of the standard festival cars, so his entire cast arrives together. This year, the lineup includes stars like Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, and Scarlett Johansson, all gearing up for the premiere of his latest film, “The Phoenician Scheme.”

Anderson has been known for his unique filmmaking style since “Bottle Rocket,” his first film in 1996. Each of his movies, whether it’s the sprawling “The Royal Tenenbaums” or the more focused “Rushmore,” carries his signature mark.

“The Phoenician Scheme” adds to his legacy with a story that’s both playful and thoughtful. Benicio del Toro shines as Zsa-Zsa Korda, a tycoon who has plans for his daughter, a novice set to inherit his questionable wealth. The film combines comedy with thriller elements, showcasing Anderson’s growth as a filmmaker.

At 56, Anderson is still thriving, with his work featured in a retrospective at the Cinémathèque in Paris. He shared personal insights during his trip, reflecting on his collection of props and costumes from his movies—some of which have been in his home for years. “My daughter plays with the ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ puppets we still have around,” he said warmly.

When discussing his relationship with frequent collaborator Jason Schwartzman, Anderson noted, “Jason once said my movies aren’t for kids but are for kids who grew up.” It’s a thoughtful take that resonates with how audiences often connect with films at different life stages.

The bonding between father and daughter in “The Phoenician Scheme” sparked questions about Anderson’s own experiences as a father. He admitted that while the story came from the dynamic between Benicio’s character and his daughter, there is an undeniable personal touch derived from his own life.

Anderson’s choice of actors, like Del Toro, often stems from their captivating screen presence. He recalled how Del Toro’s face and expressions were central to his vision for the character, which is a hallmark of Anderson’s filmmaking approach.

As the industry evolves, Anderson is aware of the challenges new directors face. “I don’t know if the kind of films I started making would be supported now,” he said, reflecting on how the landscape has changed. Yet, he remains committed to his distinct style, adapting as needed but staying true to his vision.

For further insights and more on the film, visit AP News Cannes Film Festival coverage.

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