Benicio del Toro Reveals the Challenge of Being in Every Shot in Wes Anderson’s New Film

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The Phoenician Scheme represents another collaboration project under the direction of Wes Anderson. In this new film, you’ll find many familiar faces from his ensemble, such as Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, and Bryan Cranston. Leading the cast of The Phoenician Scheme is Benicio del Toro, who previously worked with Anderson on The French Dispatch, and he is joined by newcomers to Anderson’s work, Michael Cera and Mia Threapleton.

Del Toro takes on the role of Zsa-zsa Korda, a businessman who is simultaneously launching multiple ventures, but finds himself in the line of fire from numerous opponents. Threapleton embodies their daughter Liesl, a nun, while Cera plays Bjorn, the family’s tutor.

In a conversation organized by ScreenRant, Liam Crowley chatted with Del Toro, Threapleton, and Cera to share their insights about working alongside Anderson. Del Toro explained his significant role in every shot, while Threapleton and Cera reflected on their first-hand experiences as newcomers on an Anderson production set.

Wes Anderson’s “Every Shot” Intention With Benicio del Toro

“I was scared, but not that scared…”

During the promotional interviews for Asteroid City in 2023, director Wes Anderson hinted that his upcoming project would involve a “grim, spy-themed storyline” and feature Benicio del Toro appearing in virtually every scene.

Del Toro shared with ScreenRant that he wouldn’t have felt as comfortable if Guillermo del Tort had phrased the pressure of being in every shot differently, stating, “I would’ve gotten quite nervous. I was scared, but not that terrified. The script was so compelling; it was like a motivational boost. Who wouldn’t want to play such an intriguing character? All characters – Michael’s, Mia’s, and mine – have their own arcs. That’s truly exciting for any actor because it presents both a challenge and fun.

Michael Cera & Mia Threapleton Are Wes Anderson Newcomers

“Everybody’s very gracious, and there’s a familiar atmosphere…”

In a sense, The Phoenician Scheme functioned as a gathering for del Toro, as he had previously collaborated with co-stars Jeffrey Wright and Bill Murray on Anderson’s 2021 film, The French Dispatch. It is common for Anderson to draw upon familiar actors to fill his casts, but he always introduces fresh faces with each project.

Cera explained that, as a novice with Wes Anderson’s team, he didn’t feel like an outsider. Instead, everyone was welcoming, creating a comfortable and inviting environment. In fact, they quickly integrated him into their group. For about a week and a half, the three of them worked closely with Wes in a private space, rehearsing together, which helped them focus on their shared project and develop a strong team dynamic.

At the outset, it wasn’t as if he hadn’t felt any apprehension. However, this undertaking was the most significant role Threapleton had ever taken on.

Threapleton recollected his arrival in Germany, checking into a hotel, feeling rather lonely because he didn’t know anyone. He remembered going downstairs for lunch and having a moment of thinking, “This might feel like being at a big school, I suppose I’ll sit alone for now, as I haven’t found my group yet.” Walking in, he saw the grip team and camera team, and they warmly greeted him, saying, “It’s so nice to meet you, Mia! Come join us!” They welcomed him right away, making him feel like part of the pack instead of a lone wolf.

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2025-06-02 22:50