I took in Wes Anderson's new joint over the weekend, The Phoenician Scheme. If you are a fan of the auteur's work, it is indeed a must. In the context of his previous films, I would say it's good, not great, but still very enjoyable.
The chance to spend a couple of hours watching his cinematic display has never been a disappointment for me, ether live action or animated. As far as set design it's right up there with The Grand Budapest Hotel.
Benicio del Toro was the male lead. This is just his 2nd Anderson film, the other was The French Dispatch for which I thought he deserved award recognition. Here he delivers a performance which competes with Ralph Fiennes (The Grand Budapest Hotel) for best ever in one he has directed.
Mia Threapleton is a newcomer and it's obvious the apple does not fall from the tree, as the daughter of Kate Winslet.
Another newcomer was Michael Cera, who has the 3rd most screen time. Beforehand, I did not even realize he had a role in the film. He's great, and fits in as though he has always been apart of the Wes Anderson universe. Welcome aboard.
There are several other familiar faces, with supporting roles...Tom Hanks, Rupert Friend, Bryan Cranston, Scarlett Johansson & Jeffrey Wright. There are blink and you will miss them parts played by Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe and F Murray Abraham.
I sense I will appreciate the film more with a second viewing.