Michael Cera has revealed "the biggest surprise" about filming his new Wes Anderson movie.
Released last month, The Phoenician Scheme stars Cera as a Norwegian entomologist named Bjorn, who is hired to tutor wealthy businessman Zsa-zsa Korda (Benicio del Toro).
Things get tricky for Bjorn when he is suddenly embroiled in a financial scheme alongside Korda and his daughter Liesel (Mia Threapleton), resulting in a host of bizarre assassination attempts.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Cera shared that he didn't realise he would be featuring so prominently in the movie, and was shocked when he read the script.
"The biggest surprise — when [director] Wes sent me the script — I didn't expect to be along for the whole ride," he said. "And that was thrilling to get to watch Wes basically make this whole movie."
Related: Best film and TV tours for 2025
What to Read Next
Being able to work so closely with his colleagues was a pleasant surprise for the star, who said he found the process "very fulfilling".
"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. "It was nice to be along for the whole production with them."
Related: Jonathan Bailey reveals Elphaba and Fiyero change in the "darker" Wicked 2
Cera shared that he took his role very seriously while filming as he wanted to do justice to the story and Anderson's creative 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. "It's really good material. I think that's the challenge in a way: You just want to make sure you nail it."
"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."
The Phoenician Scheme is out now in cinemas.
Digital Spy's first print magazine is here! Buy British Comedy Legends in newsagents or online, now priced at just £3.99.
Divya is a freelance writer with experience in entertainment and lifestyle news. Described as a "telly addict" since childhood, Divya was able to translate her interests into a BJTC-accredited, Honours degree in Journalism and Media. After working in communications and marketing, Divya joined Digital Spy as a Freelance News Reporter. She has also written for various publications including Metro, Asian World News and TwitCelebGossip; as well as interviews, features and reviews on her own blog. Divya prides herself on her TV, film and showbiz knowledge, always offering (not so) fun facts to her long-suffering friends and family. From soaps to superheroes, Divya is the go-to person for tailored recommendations and up to date information.
