Directed by Marc Forster and based on the international best-selling novel A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, the 2022 film A Man Called Otto is at once a feel-good, heart-wrenching drama that follows Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks), a curmudgeonly widower who discovers new purpose in life by forming new bonds with some unexpected friends. Sully, starring Tom Hanks in the title role, is based on Swedish author Fredrik Backman’s novel A Man Called Ove. This makes for a mature cast that emulates the pain of working through the plot.
In this blog, we will delve deeper into the cast of A Man Called Otto, the characters they portray, and how they enhance the film’s storyline. We’ll also dive into supporting characters, guest appearances, and what sets this adaptation apart.
Tom Hanks as Otto Anderson
The titular Otto Anderson is played by Tom Hanks, and at the heart of A Man Named Otto is Tom Hanks. Otto is a cantankerous, tough and lonely old man who is ready to end it all after losing the love of his life, Sonya. He has strict rules he follows and daily schedules, with lots of confrontation with his neighbors. After all, Otto wants to drive them all away but then a bubbly, friendly family moves in next door.
Hanks’ performance is strong and very emotional as he moulds Otto’s grief, frustration and eventual redemption. His performance also strikes a balance of humor and sorrow, making Otto someone that is both relatable and gloriously human. This role is yet another film in Tom Hanks’ storied career full of famous performances, showing once again the reasons why he is one of Hollywood’s most beloved personas.
Mariana Treviño as Marisol
Mariana Treviño as Marisol, Otto’s new neighbor who becomes central to his life. Marisol’s a warm, willful and nurturing woman who won’t let Otto’s cantankerousness scare her away. She really keeps pushing him out of his comfort zone and vic versa, showing him kindness where there is initially resistance.
Marisol is exciting, warm, vibrant – a foil to Otto’s coldness and distance. Her relentless attempts to befriend Otto gradually chip away at his emotional walls throughout the film. Mariana Treviño is charming, earnest and energetic, making Marisol one of the movie’s most lovable characters.
Rachel Keller as Sonya Anderson (Otto’s Late Wife)
Rachel Keller as Sonya Anderson, Otto’s deceased wife, who we see in flashbacks throughout the film. Sonya was the love of Otto’s life, and with her death, he’s feeling lost and bitter. Through flashbacks we see their beautiful love story unfold, revealing ups and downs from their early days together and as a couple.
Sonya was a teacher, a gentle soul and the one who lit up Otto’s world. Even in death, she still shapes his decisions and feelings. Rachel Keller’s performance conveys Sonya’s loving and compassionate side so well that she feels alive in Otto’s memories.
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Truman Hanks as Young Otto
In a tender bit of casting, Truman Hanks, Tom Hanks’ real-life son, portrays young Otto Anderson in the film’s flashbacks. Truman has a perfect handle on the younger Otto, who is shy, serious and hard-working before turning into the grumpy old man in the present.
Otto’s history can be gleaned through Truman’s performance, giving the audience evidence of the experiences that made Otto the way he was. The flashbacks flesh out Otto’s character, making his transformation in the present-day storyline all the more meaningful.
Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Tommy
Tommy, Marisol’s husband and Otto’s new neighbor, is played by Manuel Garcia-Rulfo. Unlike Marisol, Tommy is a little clumsy and inept with home repairs, frustrating Otto to no end. But even though Tommy annoys Otto, he is friendly and respectful.
Otto often pokes fun at his handyman skills so their dynamic often provides comic relief. But over time Otto becomes attached to Tommy and comes to view him as part of his extended family. Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, who stars as Tommy, has an innate charisma that keeps his character from being less than likable and relatable.
Cameos and Guest Appearances
Besides the leading cast, A Man Called Otto includes several supporting characters who enrich the story.
Cameron Britton as Jimmy
Cameron Britton stars as Jimmy, one of Otto’s neighbors who attempts to befriend him. Jimmy is easy going, brutally honest, and tries to brighten Otto’s mood by talking with him. He jokes in a little bit of comic relief.
Juanita Jennings as Anita
Juanita Jennings plays Anita, another community neighbor. She is a very nice woman who has known Otto for many years. Anita’s role helps to illuminate Otto’s relationships with his older neighbors, helping show what they think of him, despite his cantankerousness.
Peter Lawson Jones as Reuben
Peter Lawson Jones as Reuben, Anita’s husband and Otto’s longtime friend. Otto and Reuben have a fraught relationship—they used to be best friends; over time, they slowly drifted apart due to ideological differences. But his bond with him is strong too, and Otto does care for him at the end of the day.
Christiana Montoya and Alessandra Perez as Marisol’s Daughters
Christiana Montoya and Alessandra Perez play Marisol’s young daughters, who establish an adorable and genuinely touching bond with Otto. Although his character is grumpy, he gradually softens up to the kids, revealing a more nurturing and fatherly side of himself.
What Makes the A Man Called Otto Cast So Effective
Strong performances are just one of the reasons thatA Man Called Otto is such a touching, well-crafted film. All the actors are bringing something original and purposeful to the story:
Hanks plays Otto with a lot of heart, and he makes the character a frustrating pain in the ass but also clear-eyed and lovable.
Mariana Treviño sparkles as Marisol, infusing the film with warmth and humor.
Rachel Keller and Truman Hanks offer strong flashbacks that deepen Otto’s character.
And the supporting cast brings new dimensions of humor, friendship and heart to the film’s narrative.
As a result, this gifted cast brings the novel’s characters to life, and the movie is both moving and uplifting.
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The Cast of A Man Called Otto: Final Thoughts
Everyone in the A Man Called Otto cast is integral to making this a successful and sentimental story. And from Tom Hanks’ terrific turn as Otto to Mariana Treviño’s warm and vibrant rendition of Marisol, each character adds layers and feeling to the narrative.
The film is a beautiful blend of themes around loss, friendship, second chances and community, all of which are incredibly complemented by the excellent cast. Whether you’re familiar with the original novel A Man Called Ove, or experiencing this story for the first time, the performances in this adaptation will become burned into your memory.
If you haven’t seen A Man Called Otto yet, be sure to catch it, as it has heart-wrenching storytelling, and the cast is outstanding in it.
FAQs
Who plays Otto in A Man Called Otto?
The lead role of Otto Anderson is played by Tom Hanks. His performance brings depth and emotion to the character, balancing grumpiness with warmth and humor.
Who plays young Otto in the movie?
Truman Hanks, Tom Hanks’ real-life son, plays young Otto in flashback scenes. His portrayal connects the audience to Otto’s past and shows how he became the man he is.
Who plays Marisol in A Man Called Otto?
Mariana Treviño plays Marisol, Otto’s kind and persistent neighbor. Her energy and compassion gradually break through Otto’s hard exterior, bringing heart and humor to the film.
Who plays Sonya, Otto’s wife?
Rachel Keller stars as Sonya Anderson, Otto’s late wife, seen in flashbacks. Her gentle, loving personality adds emotional depth and explains much of Otto’s grief and behavior.
Who plays Tommy, Marisol’s husband?
Manuel Garcia-Rulfo plays Tommy, Marisol’s husband. Though clumsy and often the subject of Otto’s frustration, his good nature and patience help build a sense of community around Otto.