Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Wes Anderson’s ‘The Phoenician Scheme’ Opens Nationwide with Visuals Lauded and Story Debated

Critics have praised the film’s meticulous 1950s-inspired imagery along with its lead performances.

The Phoenician Scheme
Image
Image
Wes Anderson directing Benicio del Toro in The Phoenician Scheme

Overview

  • The film opened widely in US theaters on June 6 after premiering at Cannes on May 18 and debuting in the UK on May 23.
  • Bruno Delbonnel’s silky 35mm cinematography and Anderson’s signature symmetrical framing have drawn consistent praise for evoking a stylized 1950s dollhouse world.
  • Benicio del Toro’s portrayal of industrialist Zsa-zsa Korda and Mia Threapleton’s turn as his nun daughter have been singled out for emotional depth within a crowded ensemble that features Tom Hanks and Michael Cera.
  • Critics remain split on the film’s narrative substance, with some finding the espionage-driven plot too dense and stylized, and others appreciating its exploration of morality, spirituality and familial redemption.
  • Co-written by Anderson and Roman Coppola, the PG-13-rated feature includes artful assassination attempts and cameos from Scarlett Johansson, Jeffrey Wright and other high-profile actors.