Isaac Del Toro Wins Giro d'Italia Stage 17 Amid Fierce Competition

Benicio del Toro stars as the lead character Anatole 'Zsa-zsa' Korda, a European businessman and industrialist, in Wes Anderson's new film The Phoenician Scheme, which opens in theaters on May 30. Del Toro discussed the different mindset required for a lead role, comparing it to pacing oneself like a distance runner, in contrast to smaller roles where one must sprint intensely. Anderson wrote the role specifically with del Toro in mind, highlighting the director's meticulous planning and distinctive style, which also connects his recurring troupe of actors. The film portrays Korda on a journey across a fictional nation to renegotiate business deals, with intricate and eccentric production design featuring references to post-war magnates and artistic details. Critics note the film's blend of absurdity and detailed storytelling, with del Toro embodying a complex character who is both flamboyant and impervious to logic, navigating assassination attempts and complex business dealings. This collaboration continues del Toro's ongoing relationship with Anderson, following their previous work together in The French Dispatch.