Mia Threapleton has officially stepped into the spotlight with her commanding performance in Wes Anderson’s latest film, The Phoenician Scheme, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 18, 2025, to a standing ovation. At just 24 years old, the daughter of Kate Winslet has captivated audiences and critics alike, earning praise as a breakout star in this quirky, heartfelt black comedy. The film, released in select theaters on May 30, 2025, and set for wider release on June 6, marks Threapleton’s first leading role in a feature film. Critics have called her performance “electric” and “sensational,” highlighting her ability to hold her own alongside heavyweights like Benicio del Toro and Michael Cera. Let’s dive into why Mia Threapleton’s role in this film has everyone talking and how it contributes to the emotional depth of Anderson’s latest work.
Mia Threapleton’s Breakthrough as Liesl
In The Phoenician Scheme, Mia Threapleton plays Liesl, a novitiate nun and the estranged daughter of a ruthless industrialist, Zsa-zsa Korda, portrayed by Benicio del Toro. Liesl’s character is complex—fierce, deadpan, and layered with suppressed emotions from a lifetime of distance from her father. Threapleton’s ability to convey disdain, curiosity, and quiet vulnerability through subtle expressions and sharp delivery has drawn comparisons to a young Mia Wasikowska. Her performance stands out in a film packed with Anderson’s signature quirks, from meticulous set designs to a star-studded ensemble including Tom Hanks, Scarlett Johansson, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
Threapleton’s casting wasn’t a given. She earned the role through a competitive audition process, standing out among hundreds with a screen test where she improvised a nun’s costume using a napkin and hairpins. Wes Anderson himself noted her commanding presence, despite her petite stature, saying she brings a “solidity” to scenes that feels effortless. This role marks a pivotal moment in her career, proving she’s more than just a famous name—she’s a talent to watch.
Why The Phoenician Scheme Feels So Emotional
Is The Phoenician Scheme Wes Anderson’s most emotional film? Many critics think so, and Mia Threapleton’s performance is a big reason why. The film centers on the fractured bond between Liesl and her father, Zsa-zsa, who, after surviving his sixth assassination attempt, names her as his heir despite their estrangement. This father-daughter dynamic, infused with Anderson’s personal reflections on family (inspired partly by his late father-in-law), hits harder than the whimsical capers of his earlier works like Moonrise Kingdom.
The emotional weight comes from the push-and-pull between Liesl’s guarded resentment and Zsa-zsa’s desperate attempts to reconnect. Threapleton’s deadpan delivery, paired with del Toro’s nuanced portrayal of a flawed, larger-than-life tycoon, creates moments of quiet heartbreak amid the film’s absurd humor and globe-trotting adventure. Unlike Anderson’s more recent films, such as Asteroid City, which leaned into cerebral themes, this one grounds its quirks in raw human connection, making it resonate deeply with audiences.
Here’s what sets The Phoenician Scheme apart emotionally:
- Father-Daughter Tension: Liesl’s struggle to forgive her father feels universal, tapping into themes of legacy and reconciliation.
- Subtle Performances: Threapleton and del Toro convey complex emotions through restrained, Andersonian dialogue.
- Personal Inspiration: Anderson’s nod to his father-in-law adds a layer of authenticity to the story.
A New Star in Anderson’s Universe
Mia Threapleton’s rise in The Phoenician Scheme isn’t just about her performance—it’s about her seamless fit into Wes Anderson’s idiosyncratic world. Known for his loyal ensemble of actors like Bill Murray and Willem Dafoe, Anderson rarely introduces new faces with such prominence. Threapleton, however, feels like she was born for his stylized universe. Her ability to balance deadpan humor with emotional depth mirrors the best of Anderson’s past leads, yet she brings something fresh—a quiet intensity that cuts through the film’s ornate aesthetic.
Critics have noted that Threapleton’s Liesl avoids the “nepo baby” stereotype. Her prior roles in smaller projects like A Little Chaos and The Buccaneers showed promise, but this film cements her as a star in her own right. At Cannes, she received the Variety and Golden Globes Breakthrough Artist Award, a testament to her impact. Her chemistry with Michael Cera, who plays a quirky entomologist named Bjorn, adds levity and warmth, making their scenes some of the film’s most memorable.
The Buzz and Beyond
The buzz around The Phoenician Scheme extends beyond Threapleton’s performance. The film sits at 76% on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers praising its blend of dark comedy, espionage thrills, and emotional depth. Some call it a return to Anderson’s Royal Tenenbaums-era storytelling, while others argue it’s a bold evolution, blending his signature whimsy with a grittier edge. Threapleton’s role has sparked conversations about new talent in Hollywood, with fans on social media platforms buzzing about her poised, commanding presence.
For Threapleton, this is just the beginning. At 24, she’s already working on projects that promise to showcase her versatility. Her time filming in Berlin, where she swam in lakes between takes with A-listers, hints at a grounded yet ambitious spirit. As The Phoenician Scheme rolls out to theaters, audiences are eager to see how her career unfolds.
Final Thoughts
Mia Threapleton’s star turn in The Phoenician Scheme proves she’s a force to be reckoned with, bringing emotional depth to a film that balances Wes Anderson’s quirks with heartfelt storytelling. Her portrayal of Liesl, a nun grappling with her father’s legacy, anchors the movie’s exploration of family and redemption. Whether you’re a longtime Anderson fan or new to his world, Threapleton’s performance makes this film a must-see. It’s a reminder that even in a universe of assassins and elaborate schemes, the simplest human connections can leave the deepest mark.
Ready to witness Mia Threapleton’s breakout moment? Catch The Phoenician Scheme in select theaters now or everywhere starting June 6, 2025. Share your thoughts on her performance in the comments below!