Overview

• The Phoenician Scheme premiered at Cannes this month, opened in UK cinemas on May 23 and began a limited U.S. release today ahead of a June 6 wide rollout.
• Benicio Del Toro stars as Zsa-sza Korda, a ruthless industrialist, opposite Mia Threapleton, who marks her major film debut as his estranged daughter, Liesl.
• Michael Cera joins Anderson’s regular troupe in his first collaboration with the director as Bjørn, a Norwegian tutor and entomologist.
• Critics have praised Anderson’s detailed production design, symmetrical compositions and distinctive color palette throughout the 1950-set adventure.
• Reviewers remain divided over the film’s narrative depth, noting its intricate plot and deadpan performances may not match the emotional warmth of Anderson’s past works.