Anatole “Zsa-zsa” Korda, portrayed by Benicio del Toro, takes center stage in Wes Anderson’s highly anticipated new film “El Esquema Fenicio.” Co-written with Roman Coppola, the film is set in post-war Europe during the 1950s and follows Korda, one of the wealthiest men on the continent. After surviving his sixth assassination attempt, Korda embarks on the final phase of his most ambitious venture: the large-scale exploitation of a forgotten strategic region.
With immense wealth and numerous adversaries ranging from governments to ruthless competitors, Zsa-zsa faces personal and financial risks that could jeopardize his legacy. In a surprising twist, he decides to appoint his estranged daughter Liesl (Mia Threapleton), a 20-year-old currently living in a convent, as his successor.
Teaming up with her personal tutor Bjorn (Michael Cera), Zsa-zsa and Liesl dive into the contemporary landscape of the Independent Great Phoenicia to negotiate business deals that could either save or doom their empire. Throughout their journey, Liesl also seeks to uncover the truth behind her mother’s unsolved murder, a case that has haunted the family for a decade.
The film delves into the intricate dynamics between father and daughter, revealing layers of ambition, betrayal, and redemption. Anderson notes that “El Esquema Fenicio” seeks to portray the archetype of the European magnate of the era—a character reminiscent of Onassis and Niarchos, characterized by significant influence and questionable ethics. “Zsa-zsa is a worldly man with few qualms about telling the truth,” explains Anderson.
Benicio del Toro delivers a captivating performance that connects him with cinematic antiheroes like Charles Foster Kane. The stellar cast also includes Mia Threapleton, Michael Cera, Riz Ahmed, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Scarlett Johansson, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
With Anderson’s signature visual style, rich with eccentric characters, vibrant colors, and a narrative that blends humor with drama, “El Esquema Fenicio” is poised to be one of the year’s most awaited films. It presents a compelling exploration of power, family, and the complexities of the human soul.
The film is set to premiere this Thursday, June 5, in theaters across Panama. This combination of suspenseful storytelling and a star-studded cast promises an engaging cinematic experience that resonates with audiences worldwide.