Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme Characters Revealed: A Star-Packed Cast to Love

Wes Anderson’s next cinematic gem, The Phoenician Scheme, is already generating Oscar buzz, with its ensemble of characters stealing the spotlight. Set for release on May 30, 2025, this espionage black comedy weaves a tale of family drama, betrayal, and quirky humor, all wrapped in Anderson’s signature aesthetic.

From billionaire tycoons to rebellious nuns, this exhaustive list of The Phoenician Scheme characters  promise to captivate audiences. Let’s dive into the full lineup, exploring who’s who in this dazzling cast.

Who Are the Main Players in The Phoenician Scheme?

Leading the pack is Benicio del Toro as Zsa-zsa Korda, a charismatic businessman who’s dodged death six times—think plane crashes and pure luck. Anderson has teased that del Toro anchors nearly every scene, making Korda the heartbeat of the story.

Mia Threapleton shines as Sister Liesl, Korda’s estranged daughter, whose life as a nun clashes with her father’s lavish world. Their tense dynamic drives the plot, blending dark comedy with emotional depth. Michael Cera, ever the quirky standout, plays Bjorn Lund, Liesl’s tutor, injecting his signature awkward charm into the mix.

Which Anderson Veterans Return for This Film?

Anderson loves his recurring collaborators, and this film brings back some heavy hitters. Tom Hanks, fresh off Asteroid City, takes on the enigmatic Leland, a role shrouded in secrecy but bound to dazzle. Scarlett Johansson, another Anderson favorite, appears in a witty cameo, sparring verbally with del Toro’s Korda.

Bryan Cranston, Jeffrey Wright, and Mathieu Amalric also return, each adding their unique spice. Cranston’s part is hush-hush, but expect gravitas. Wright, from The French Dispatch, and Amalric, a staple since The Grand Budapest Hotel, round out the familiar faces. Richard Ayoade, playing a freedom fighter, brings his dry humor, fresh from The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.

Who Are the Fresh Faces in The Phoenician Scheme?

This film welcomes exciting newcomers to Anderson’s universe. Riz Ahmed dazzles as Prince Farouk, hinting at royal intrigue. Rupert Friend’s Excaliber—yes, that’s the name—screams Anderson’s love for oddball characters. Hope Davis and Charlotte Gainsbourg also debut, with Gainsbourg’s art-house cred sparking major fan excitement.

Benedict Cumberbatch, after stealing scenes in The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, plays Uncle Nubar, a “generously hairy” figure who’s sure to be unforgettable. Willem Dafoe, another first-timer, joins the fray, his versatile intensity promising a standout performance.

What Supporting Roles Round Out the Cast?

The ensemble doesn’t stop with the leads. Imad Mardnli, Tonio Arango, Imke Büchel, Jaime Ferkic, Antonia Desplat, Aysha Samuel, and Sabine Hollweck are all on board, though their roles remain mysterious. Anderson’s knack for making even bit players iconic means these names will likely shine.

One quirky standout is Cousin, a character tied to a darkly funny moment involving hand grenades—classic Anderson absurdity. With such a sprawling cast, every frame will burst with personality.

Why Does This Lineup Have Fans So Hyped?

The magic of this cast lies in its blend of star power and eccentricity. Anderson has a knack for turning ensembles into cinematic families, mixing A-listers like Hanks and Johansson with rising stars like Threapleton and Ahmed. The roles—tycoons, nuns, tutors, freedom fighters—promise a story that’s equal parts whimsical and profound.

The espionage plot, layered with a family business saga, sets the stage for a film that’s as clever as it is heartfelt. Fans are already counting down to the Cannes premiere, eager to see these characters come to life.

Some Closing Thoughts:

With The Phoenician Scheme hitting theaters May 30, 2025, this cast is poised to deliver Anderson’s most ambitious film yet.

Whether you’re here for del Toro’s swagger, Cera’s quirks, or the sheer joy of Anderson’s world, these characters will leave you enchanted. Don’t miss it.