The Phoenician Scheme

5/29/2025

Unlike a few of the more recent Wes Anderson films, I thought this had more of a substantial story to underpin the antics as it follow the quite literally death-defying activities of entrepreneur “Korda” (Benicio del Toro). Now he’s made his squillions somewhat disreputably and has frequently been the target of assassins, so after this latest attempt sees him face down in the desert, he decides it’s time to make his will. He has loads of sons but just one daughter. She’s a nun, sworn to holy orders and is called “Liesl” (Mia Threapleton). Now she’s not the sort of “Liesl” we saw with Julie Andrews, this one is ruthlessly savvy and switched on as her father embarks on his most ambitious, secretive and toxic scheme yet - and that’s only going to further irk “Excalibur” (Rupert Friend) whom w

6/3/2025

<em>'The Phoenician Scheme'</em> is Wes Anderson being Wes Anderson (complimentary). I loved this! <em>'Fantastic Mr. Fox'</em> and <em>'The French Dispatch'</em> are works of this director that I've enjoyed most, but this 2025 release is on another level for me. It's as amusing as it as stunning, Anderson films are unmistakably Anderson and this one is no different; it has everything you'd expect from a picture of his. The all-star cast list is usual for his flicks as well, here there are plenty of actors that I enjoy; so it was never gonna disappoint, I guess. Benicio del Toro is an outstanding lead, I've always liked him as an actor (<em>'Sicario'</em>, <em>'The Hunted'</em>) but this is his first performance (at least from the ten flicks featuring him that I've now seen) that is

6/3/2025

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://talkingfilms.net/the-phoenician-scheme-review-for-fans-and-skeptics-alike-a-more-accessible-entry-point-into-wes-andersons-world/ "The Phoenician Scheme is yet another clear example of Wes Anderson's singular vision, with the filmmaker continuing to provide space for every department to shine - from Adam Stockhausen's extravagant production design to Alexandre Desplat's witty score, and Bruno Delbonnel's immaculately aligned cinematography. However, it's in the thematic exploration where the film reaches a rare point of balance: by portraying the transformation of a man consumed by vanity and ambition into a vulnerable and redeemed father figure, the writer-director offers a genuine reflection on regret, family reconnection, and personal sacrifice.

6/8/2025

I absolutely adored this film; I think it was brilliantly done. I love Wes Anderson movies, and true to his style, this film was filled with drama and some cheeky flair. I’m not quite sure what skill it takes for an actor to sit there with basically one expression throughout the entire film, yet convey a million things without saying a word. Whatever that skill is, it’s truly hypnotising, and this film showcased it perfectly. All the actors and actresses in this world were simply stunning and brilliant. On top of that, the production design was amazing, which I absolutely adore. The production design is the main reason why Wes Anderson is my favourite director. I love the vibe he creates and his aesthetic; it's kind of like a retro 70s dollhouse mixed with eating an ice cream on a v