Michael Cera discusses his surprising role in Wes Anderson movie, “The Phoenician Scheme,” sharing how the experience differed from his expectations after receiving the script. The film, which premiered last month in cinemas, casts Cera as a Norwegian entomologist and places him in the midst of both complex storytelling and an impressive ensemble.
Cera’s Unexpected Spotlight in Wes Anderson’s Latest Movie
In “The Phoenician Scheme,” Michael Cera takes on the role of Bjorn, a Norwegian bug specialist who is hired by wealthy businessman Zsa-zsa Korda, played by Benicio del Toro, to tutor him. Bjorn’s responsibilities take a dramatic turn when he is drawn into an elaborate financial plot centered around Korda and his daughter Liesel, portrayed by Mia Threapleton. This plot quickly spirals into chaos, involving a sequence of eccentric assassination attempts and building layers of intrigue around Cera’s character.
Discussing his initial reaction, Cera admitted being caught off guard by how central his part would be in the movie.
“The biggest surprise — when [director] Wes sent me the script — I didn’t expect to be along for the whole ride,”
he said. —Michael Cera, Actor. He highlighted how exhilarating it was to see Wes Anderson in his element throughout the production process.
“And that was thrilling to get to watch Wes basically make this whole movie.”
—Michael Cera, Actor.
A Creative Collaboration with an All-Star Cast
Cera expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work closely with Wes Anderson, Benicio del Toro, and Mia Threapleton. He was pleased by the fulfilling nature of their collaboration on set.
“To collaborate with people like Wes and Benicio and Mia and watch them do their thing and watch the movie come together, it’s very gratifying,”
he explained. —Michael Cera, Actor. The actor further shared his appreciation for being involved in the entire filmmaking process with his colleagues.
“It was nice to be along for the whole production with them.”
—Michael Cera, Actor.
Dedication to Bringing The Story to Life
Taking the lead seriously, Michael Cera revealed that he viewed his role as an important responsibility, wanting to do justice to both the story and Anderson’s vision.
“You just get one chance to make this movie, and want to make sure you deliver on the great material that Wes has created,”
he said. —Michael Cera, Actor. He spoke about the pressure and excitement of working with high-quality material, stating,
“It’s really good material. I think that’s the challenge in a way: You just want to make sure you nail it.”
—Michael Cera, Actor.
Cera also reflected on Wes Anderson’s directorial style, describing the rigorous pursuit of creative excellence.
“But working with Wes, you work away at it until you do feel good. He’s very relentless in that pursuit. So then you feel confident as an actor that you’re going to get it. You’re working with someone that’s not going to move on until it’s in there.”
—Michael Cera, Actor.
What Lies Ahead for “The Phoenician Scheme”
With “The Phoenician Scheme” now showing in cinemas, audiences have the opportunity to witness the dynamic interplay between Michael Cera, Benicio del Toro, and Mia Threapleton, alongside director Wes Anderson’s signature style. The movie’s unique blend of suspense, quirky humor, and ensemble cast may set a new benchmark for Anderson’s body of work and further highlight Cera’s evolving career in film.
