When Michael Cera was announced as joining the cast of a Wes Anderson film for the first time, many assumed it had already happened. Their styles are so aligned that a collaboration felt inevitable. “The Phoenician Scheme,” released by Focus Features, marks their first actual film together, with Cera playing Bjørn Lund, a Norwegian tutor and entomologist, alongside Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, Tom Hanks, and Bryan Cranston.
Cera’s character, often seen with insects and delivering lines in a whimsical Norwegian accent, adds charm to a movie filled with Anderson’s trademark visual flair and quirky storytelling. The actor revealed that he and Anderson met over 15 years ago and maintained a creative friendship, with Cera sending scripts and seeking feedback over the years.
Their collaboration almost happened earlier with “Asteroid City,” but Cera had to pull out due to personal commitments. Anderson later wrote the role in “The Phoenician Scheme” with Cera in mind. Cera embraced Anderson’s immersive production style, including shared lodging and no trailers, and frequently observed the director at work on set.
In addition to acting, Cera is transitioning into directing, with his upcoming debut “Love Is Not the Answer” featuring Pamela Anderson and Steve Coogan. Despite his off-screen privacy and absence from smartphones, Cera remains a compelling presence in film, blending absurdism with sincerity.
He’s also joined Anderson in a Mont Blanc ad, further solidifying their creative partnership. Whether or not he’s officially part of Anderson’s troupe, Cera says, “I would never say no.”
Swifteradio.com
