Lovers of all things eccentric rejoice as Wes Anderson’s latest film, “The Phoenician Scheme,” hit theatres on May 30.
Known for his signature bright colors, beautiful cinematography and quirky characters, Anderson continues to deliver delicious visuals in his latest film. The Longhorn filmmaker delves into darker subjects, adding gory and violent elements to his usual whimsy. Despite these enticing new roads, the plot falls flat, relying on strong characters to carry audiences through its hour and 41-minute runtime.
The film follows opulent businessman Zsa-zsa Korda (Benicio Del Toro) as he reunites with his aspiring-nun daughter, Sister Liesl (Mia Threapleton). The two must work together to gain funding for his latest enterprise, the Korda Land and Sea Phoenician Infrastructure Scheme, while running from various government officials and hired assassins who want to stop them.
The opening credit scene reminds audiences of Anderson’s visual genius as they watch a beautiful aerial shot of Kora in the bath. Nurses tend to him as he bathes with a perfectly placed plate of eggs and a book in hand. Stunning color grading and pleasing symmetry allow this scene to rival Anderson’s most iconic visuals.
In addition to impressive scenes, the film’s characters prove fascinating and well-developed. Mia Threapleton breathes life into Sister Liesl, delivering an impressive performance equal parts angsty and hilarious. Michael Cera (Superbad) celebrates his first appearance in a Wes Anderson film with his role as Bjørn Lund, a bug expert who falls for Sister Liesl. Cera’s usual awkward demeanour proves a perfect fit for Anderson’s writing style.
Cera is not the only humorous celebrity cameo. A dramatic basketball battle complete with outlandish trick shots by Bryan Cranston’s and Tom Hanks’ characters stands among the film’s highlights.
Despite the funny moments, star-studded cast and gorgeous visuals, Anderson seems to bite off more than he can chew. Vague religious themes, most obviously manifested through a recurring shot of the afterlife, remain disconnected from the film’s central plot.
The story itself feels of little importance, making for a pleasant viewing experience of individual scenes that lack overall cohesion and emotional depth. Uncharacteristic gory depictions, including a dead animal carcass being sliced open and a bullet plucked from a live torso, make for a new, darker side of Anderson’s universe. But this shocking new side appears superfluous as the plot remains thin and uncomplicated.
Although this new side of Anderson is exciting to see, “The Phoenician Scheme” feels more like a fun first attempt, rather than a masterpiece. Fans of his usual whimsy will enjoy themselves, but those looking for a new magnum opus are better left rewatching old favorites.
3.5 shoeboxes out of 5
