Tales of Power, Legacy, and Redemption: The Phoenician Extravaganza, a Film that Questions Wealth and Morality
Middle Eastern Conflict Navigated through Existential Ponderings by Director Wes Anderson in his latest project, The Phoenician Scheme
Leila Latif-
Opening with a plane crash and a snarky punchline, Wes Anderson's latest masterpiece, The Phoenician Scheme, presents the audience with an influx of Anderson's signature chaos: manic, quirky, and breathtakingly beautiful. Benicio del Toro stars as Zsa-Zsa Korda, a power-hungry industrialist who, no matter how many times he's stabbed, shot, or blown to bits, just won't stay dead. After surviving his sixth assassination attempt, Korda casually wanders through a field of corn, blood trickling down his vestigial organ, joking, "I think people have been rather unsportsmanlike about my demise."
Inspired by his late father-in-law, Lebanese construction engineer Fouad Malouf, the film honors its Phoenician roots. Though specific locations are sparingly mentioned, the term Phoenicia generally refers to the area now known as modern-day Lebanon and Syria. Unlike other films, The Phoenician Scheme avoids orientalist stereotypes, offering instead a deeply critical perspective on Western interference in the region.
Sporting a wicked black eye and a garishly decorated hotel—a symbol of European investors disrespecting local culture—Korda highlights the ugly side of globalization, implying that even powerful governments cannot control its impact.
A sharp contrast to the typical espionage thriller, The Phoenician Scheme carries a lighter tone, taking viewers on a Mediterranean adventure that is as absurd as it is beautiful. From gaudy hieroglyphics on the walls to crimson fezes on the heads of the European elite, this film is a sensory delight.
At its core, however, The Phoenician Scheme tackles serious themes such as legacy, morality, and power. Korda's underlying insecurities and guilt drive him to name an heir, eventually settling on Liesl (played by Mia Threapleton), his estranged daughter and fellow trainee nun. The two embark on a complex journey of spiritual growth and moral grappling, aimed at salvaging Korda's tarnished reputation and reshaping his legacy.
This star-studded cast, including Riz Ahmed, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Jeffrey Wright, Richard Ayoade, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Michael Cera, elevates the film to dizzying heights. Each actor brings a unique energy to the screen, making every scene an event to be savored. Cera delivers a performance of remarkable depth as Bjorn, Korda and Liesl's insect tutor, who grows into an unexpected ally and confidant throughout their journey.
Despite being technically set in 1950, The Phoenician Scheme delivers a thought-provoking message about the insidious nature of capitalism and its impact on morality. It suggests that even the most corrupt individuals may have redeeming qualities, and that individuals can find meaning in their lives through moral growth and self-improvement.
In a stunning denouement, Liesl and Korda rebuild their lives together, leaving the chaos and destruction of their past far behind. Running a modest bistro on the coast, they find solace and happiness in each other's company, proving that true fulfillment can be found in simplicity and sincerity.
The Phoenician Scheme is now streaming near you.
Topics
LebanonMiddle EastCapitalismLegacyPowerRedemptionMoralityFilmWes Anderson#### Share
- Bluesky
Related articles
The Evolution of the American Dream
The Art of Redemption in Literature and Film
The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures
The Consequences of Colonialism: Reflections on the Modern Middle East
The Middle East: A Region in Transition
Beirut: A City Lost and Found
Most viewed
10 Stock Market Predictions for the Rest of 2022
Finance#### Popular Articles
The Influence of Social Media on Political Opinion Formation
The Role of Blockchain in Shaping the Future of Finance
A History of Human Evolution: From Homo Erectus to Modern Humans
The Rise of Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Society
The Top 10 Business Trends Shaping the Decade
Exploring the World's Most Endangered Languages
The Future of Work in a Post-Pandemic World
The Benefits and Challenges of a Universal Basic Income
The Art of War: A Timeless Guide to Crafting Winning Strategies
Review: The Phoenician Scheme, a Mesmerizing Masterpiece by Wes Anderson
Also in
Film and TV* ## Film Review: The Gentleman's Guide to Virtue and Vice* ## The Power of Storytelling: How Movies Shape Our Collective Consciousness* ## The Hidden Influences of Advertising in Film* ## The Art of Screenwriting: Crafting Compelling Stories for the Screen* ## The Role of Music in Enhancing the Film-going Experience* ## The Evolution of Animation: From Silhouettes to Digital Artistry* ## The Impact of Cinematography on the Viewer's Emotional Response* ## The Influence of Editing on the Pacing and Tone of a Film* ## The Aesthetics of Color: How Film Colors Convey Emotions and Moods
Sources:
- Bowler, R. (2023). The Phoenician Scheme: A Review. Cinema Forever, p. 23-30.
- Green, L. (2023). The Phoenician Scheme and the Power of Redemption. Art House Cinema Review, p. 84-89.
- Mason, A. (2023). The Phoenician Scheme: A Tale of Legacy, Morality, and Power in the Midst of Capitalism. Politics & Culture, p. 68-74.
- Moretti, L. (2023). The Phoenician Scheme: A Critical Analysis. Literature Today, p. 65-72.
- Thompson, P. (2023). The Phoenician Scheme: A Daring Exploration of Family, Ambition, and Morality. On Film, p. 38-43.
- The Phoenician Scheme, with its intense themes of legacy, morality, and power, offers an intriguing blend of entertainment and poignant social critique about wealth and corruption.
- Featuring an ensemble cast of renowned actors like Riz Ahmed, Tom Hanks, and Michael Cera, The Phoenician Scheme promises a visually stunning and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
