Wes Anderson’s Phoenician Scheme Premieres at Cannes

Wes Anderson's film 'The Phoenician Scheme' follows Zsa-Zsa Korda, a globe-trotting, corrupt billionaire seeking reconciliation with his estranged daughter Liesl while pursuing a major infrastructure project in a fictional 1950s Middle Eastern country. The story, inspired by and dedicated to Anderson's late father-in-law, explores themes of extreme wealth, hollow legacy, and family estrangement with Anderson's signature visual flair and intricate storytelling. Benicio del Toro stars as Korda, with Mia Threapleton as Liesl and Hope Davis joining the ensemble cast. Bill Murray appears in a meaningful cameo, reinforcing the motif of problematic yet evolving father figures in Anderson’s films. The film premiered at Cannes, earning praise for its blend of comedy and melancholy. Critics highlight the film's emotional depth, intricate design, and the camaraderie among the cast.