Urgent Review: Stream and Download “The Phoenician Scheme” Now

Wes Anderson explores profound themes within the realms of spirituality and commerce in his charming film “The Phoenician Scheme.” Although it seems lighter than the more serious “Asteroid City,” the film showcases Anderson’s signature attention to detail. This latest work might come across as one of his more whimsical offerings, brimming with slapstick humor and visual jokes, yet it delves into significant subjects, such as prioritizing family over corporate aspirations and the ways the elite can influence events. Featuring a star-studded cast, “The Phoenician Scheme” may not ascend to the top of anyone’s Wes Anderson favorites, but its endearing qualities make it hard to dislike.

In a hilariously absurd opening scene, Benicio del Toro portrays Zsa-zsa Korda, a businessman who has narrowly escaped his sixth plane crash. The sequence, filled with comedic chaos, hints at an ongoing assassination plot against him. Korda realizes he must designate an heir to safeguard his empire. He has nine sons, many adopted in hopes of finding a future genius, but his true intent lies in preparing his daughter, a nun named Liesl (Mia Threapleton), for leadership.

In order to mentor Liesl and close a significant deal more ethically than before (no slave labor involved), Korda embarks on a worldwide quest for funding. His potential backers include a prince named Farouk (Riz Ahmed), brothers portrayed by Tom Hanks and Bryan Cranston, nightclub owner Marseille Bob (Mathieu Amalric), American Marty (Jeffrey Wright), his cousin Hilda (Scarlett Johansson), and the unforgettable Uncle Nubar (Benedict Cumberbatch), who resembles a deranged Russian Tsar. This remarkable ensemble also features Richard Ayoade, Rupert Friend, Hope Davis, Willem Dafoe, and Bill Murray as a deity. Yes, Herman Blume has finally ascended to another realm.

While everyone in this talented cast delivers the expected comedic flair, it’s Michael Cera who stands out, offering one of the most memorable performances in Anderson’s career. He plays an awkward tutor harboring a secret, proving to be a perfect match for Anderson’s style. Del Toro and Threapleton shine, but Cera embodies the spirit of the character, successfully capturing the essence of Anderson’s dialogue and providing a richly layered portrayal that surpasses initial impressions. Let’s just say he gets to showcase some impressive karate skills.

After the complexity of “The French Dispatch” and “Asteroid City,” viewers may be surprised by how uninvested they feel in “The Phoenician Scheme.” Although a murder mystery involving Liesl’s mother lurks in the background, Anderson intentionally keeps Korda’s motivations murky. The film implies a scheme, but the negotiations between Korda and the eccentric characters can feel convoluted, at times detracting from its strengths. It’s unclear what Korda actually requires from Farouk versus Marseille Bob, which disrupts the flow. The structure often feels haphazard, serving merely as a skeleton for Anderson’s more interesting themes.

What are those themes? “The Phoenician Scheme” serves as a tale of redemption for a powerful man grappling with the consequences of his actions as numerous assassination attempts force him to reflect on his life. Each time he faces death, Anderson transitions to Biblical visions of the afterlife, which suggest that Korda’s entry into Heaven won’t be seamless. The film engages with religious symbolism and life’s moral repercussions, showcasing Anderson’s growing philosophical style compared to his earlier works. Yet at times, “The Phoenician Scheme” feels as if Anderson shies away from exploring these profound ideas, opting instead for comedic absurdity. There’s potential for a deeper narrative focused on the themes surrounding those in power who recklessly navigate moral boundaries.

Zsa-zsa Korda claims to have lived by two mottos: “Who can outsmart whom?” and “Eliminate anything in your path.” These philosophies aren’t likely to land one in Heaven. “The Phoenician Scheme” reflects Wes Anderson’s introspection on the balance between success and morality, probing how someone who has bulldozed their way through life can regain a clearer perspective.

Perhaps this film is deeper than it initially seems.

This review was written following its screening at the Cannes Film Festival. It will be released on May 30^th.