Overview

• The Phoenician Scheme, Wes Anderson's 13th feature, premiered as the opening film at the Cannes Film Festival on May 18, receiving a six-minute standing ovation alongside audible boos.
• Critics are divided on the film, with some praising its visual craftsmanship, ensemble performances, and redemption narrative, while others critique it as overly stylized and emotionally shallow.
• The story follows Zsa-zsa Korda, a tycoon played by Benicio del Toro, as he seeks reconciliation with his estranged nun daughter Liesl, portrayed by Mia Threapleton, against the backdrop of a fictional infrastructure project in mid-20th century Europe.
• The film features a star-studded cast, including Scarlett Johansson, Bryan Cranston, Tom Hanks, and Bill Murray, with Michael Cera receiving particular acclaim for his comedic performance.
• The Phoenician Scheme begins its theatrical rollout in the UK on May 23, with a limited US release on May 30 and a wide release on June 6.