Michael Cera has reflected on the biggest surprise he encountered behind the scenes of Wes Anderson film ‘The Phoenician Scheme,’ a project that hit cinemas last month. While speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Cera said he hadn’t anticipated such a central role in the movie, expressing his astonishment after seeing the script for the first time.
A Closer Look at Cera’s Character and Plot Dynamics
In ‘The Phoenician Scheme,’ Cera takes on the role of Bjorn, a Norwegian entomologist enlisted to tutor the character Zsa-zsa Korda, portrayed by Benicio del Toro. The narrative quickly escalates when Bjorn finds himself entangled in a complex financial web alongside Korda and his daughter Liesel, played by Mia Threapleton, leading to a succession of offbeat assassination attempts. Through these intense dynamics, the film stands out for its unique blend of intrigue and eccentricity.
Cera’s Reaction to the Script and Working with the Team
During his interview, Cera described his immediate response after receiving the script from director Wes Anderson, noting the genuine thrill in learning about the extent of his part.
“The biggest surprise — when [director] Wes sent me the script — I didn’t expect to be along for the whole ride,”
—Michael Cera, Actor
He continued, highlighting the rewarding nature of watching Anderson at work throughout the entire production process.
“And that was thrilling to get to watch Wes basically make this whole movie.”
—Michael Cera, Actor
The chance to collaborate closely with notable cast members like Benicio del Toro and Mia Threapleton contributed to Cera’s positive outlook on the project.
“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,”
—Michael Cera, Actor
“It was nice to be along for the whole production with them.”
—Michael Cera, Actor
Commitment to Creative Vision and Teamwork
Cera explained that he approached his role with a sense of responsibility, wanting to honor both the story and Wes Anderson’s vision. He described the challenge of working with such strong material and emphasized his dedication to achieving the right performance.
“You just get one chance to make this movie, and want to make sure you deliver on the great material that Wes has created,”
—Michael Cera, Actor
“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
He credited Anderson’s relentless directorial style for boosting the confidence of everyone involved, underlining the advantages of the director’s meticulous approach.
“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
The Film’s Release and Its Significance
‘The Phoenician Scheme’ is currently playing in theaters, offering audiences a look into the stylish, whimsical, and complex world crafted by Wes Anderson. Michael Cera’s candid remarks provide insight into what it’s like behind the scenes of a Wes Anderson film and underscore the dedication involved from both cast and crew. As viewers experience the film, the passion and commitment Cera describes are evident onscreen, leaving a lasting impression and setting high expectations for future Anderson projects.
