The Phoenician Scheme (2025)
Directed by Wes Anderson
[Rated PG-13] 1hr 41min
★★★½
The Phoenician Scheme is a dark comedy crime film about a wealthy family and their attempts to extort their business partners in order to move forward with their big development plans amid a sudden increase in the cost of building materials. At the same time, they’re also faced with numerous assassination attempts that try to stop them from continuing the unethical business practices that make them so much money.
Anyone familiar with Wes Anderson’s work will know exactly what to expect with this movie. From its exceptional direction and cinematography to its eccentric production design and acting, The Phoenician Scheme fits right in with the rest of Anderson’s filmography. However, this film does lack some of the cohesion and charm that usually makes his movies so special. While it has many of the same components as his previous work, they just don’t come together as effectively. Despite this, the film still manages to be quite entertaining with its incredible visual and narrative style. The story itself is very amusing, and everyone in this impressive cast gives fantastic comedic performances as well.
I recommend The Phoenician Scheme to anyone who enjoys wacky dark comedies and other Wes Anderson movies. Although this film doesn’t add anything new to Anderson’s usual style, it remains a worthy addition to his filmography that provides an enjoyable experience to fans of his distinctive filmmaking techniques.
The Phoenician Scheme is now playing in theaters. Click here to watch the Official Trailer.
– Review by Will Hopper