Wes Anderson and his cast on the set of The Phoenician Scheme.
Wes Anderson has become synonymous with a truly singular style. With intricate visuals, whimsical storytelling, and star-studded ensembles, his work is instantly recognizable. 2025 sees the acclaimed director return with The Phoenician Scheme, a film that blends Anderson’s signature aesthetic with fresh storytelling and bold new collaborations. Here’s what movie lovers and cinephiles should know about his latest project.
From Rushmore to The French Dispatch, Wes Anderson has captivated audiences with worlds awash in color, symmetry, and dry wit. His stories, though eccentric, often dig deep into family, loss, and connection. The Phoenician Scheme embodies these hallmarks while offering a fresh examination of legacy, power, and familial bonds.
Debuting at the Cannes Film Festival, Anderson’s new film centers on Zsa-Zsa Korda—a European tycoon played by Benicio del Toro—who survives an assassination attempt and names his estranged daughter, Liesl (Mia Threapleton), a nun, as his heir. This decision introduces a knotty family dynamic and sets off a chain of dramatic and comedic events, all within Anderson’s unique universe.
The cast is a mix of Anderson regulars and exciting newcomers. Familiar faces such as Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, Bryan Cranston, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Tom Hanks return. Fresh collaborators include Michael Cera and Riz Ahmed. According to The Hollywood Reporter’s exclusive interview with Wes Anderson, the director drew inspiration for Zsa-Zsa Korda from both classic European businessmen and personal family ties, adding emotional resonance to the quirky tale.
Not only does The Phoenician Scheme reunite Anderson with much of his beloved creative team, but it also marks his first live-action film not shot by cinematographer Robert Yeoman. Instead, Anderson partners with Bruno Delbonnel, known for his lush and atmospheric imagery. This blend of visionaries brings a fresh layer to Anderson’s visual storytelling. ScreenRant highlights the film’s unique reunions and the opportunity for fans to experience Anderson’s idiosyncratic vision on the big screen, especially before its wide release.
The film’s black comedy approach, sophisticated set designs, and precise performances recall The Royal Tenenbaums, one of Anderson’s most beloved works. For a sneak peek at the humor and dynamic cast interactions that await, check out the official “You Used To Work For Me” clip from the movie. If you’re drawn to dysfunctional family sagas with a twist, this entry promises both delight and depth.
The Phoenician Scheme premiered at Cannes on May 18, 2025. It enters limited release in U.S. theaters on May 30, then expands nationwide from June 6. Early screening events have allowed select audiences to catch it ahead of its wider release, building even more anticipation among fans of Wes Anderson.
Wes Anderson remains an auteur who surprises and delights, building cinematic experiences that invite viewers to look closer and, sometimes, revisit his films for hidden meaning. The Phoenician Scheme stands as proof of his enduring creativity. Whether you’re a devoted fan or discovering his style for the first time, this new film is not to be missed. For deeper dives and more coverage on Anderson’s career, don’t miss the full THR interview and feature.