Wes Anderson's new film, "The Phoenician Scheme," is set to premiere at the Cannes Film Festival later this month, introducing Mia Threapleton in a prominent role. The actor plays Sister Liesl in the caper, which centers on a troubled father-daughter dynamic within the structure of a fast-paced story.
Threapleton, daughter of actor Kate Winslet, plays opposite Benicio del Toro, who portrays her father, Zsa-zsa Korda. The character is a wealthy businessman with many enemies seeking to kill him. After surviving an attempt on his life, Korda seeks out Liesl, whom he has not seen in years, to involve her in a land-expansion project plan.
The film's ensemble cast includes Michael Cera, Bryan Cranston, Tom Hanks, Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, and Benedict Cumberbatch. Anderson's approach to filmmaking involves housing cast and crew in the same hotel, fostering a collaborative environment.
Anderson states the movie comes "from the same well" as his earlier film, "The Royal Tenenbaums," noting thematic resonances between the two. He added that aspects of the character Zsa-zsa Korda were inspired by his father-in-law, Fouad Malouf, to whom the film is dedicated.
The director also discussed working with Gene Hackman on "The Royal Tenenbaums," describing the late actor as "the guy" for the part and possessing "epic electricity" in his scenes. Del Toro previously worked with Anderson on "The French Dispatch."
Threapleton described her audition for the role, noting Anderson watched hundreds of tapes. Anderson said Threapleton's reading stood out as completely authentic. She recalled meeting Anderson, noting his casual attire put her at ease before discussing the role. Threapleton learned she had secured the part while on a train, causing her to cry.
She has previously appeared in films and television series, including a role in "Firebrand" and Apple TV+'s "The Buccaneers." Threapleton also acted opposite her mother, Kate Winslet, in a episode of "I Am...," for which Winslet won a BAFTA. She discussed growing up with Winslet as her mother, noting her mother encouraged her desire to pursue acting independently.
The actor described her experience on the set of "The Phoenician Scheme" as like being part of a "tableau," where the action unfolds in front of the camera without extensive cuts. She noted a feeling of being in sync with Anderson's filmmaking vision.
"The Phoenician Scheme" comes to UK cinemas on May 23.Mia Threapleton shared her feelings about the film's upcoming premiere. "I am never going to forget any of it. None of it at all," she said. "I’m going to keep it close to my heart. I feel like I’m still dreaming.” Mia Threapleton Is Wes Anderson’s Next Breakout Star
