Netflix’s new German sci-fi thriller Brick has gripped audiences with its intense story of a couple and their neighbors trapped inside their apartment building by a mysterious, unbreakable wall. Directed by Philip Koch, the film stars Matthias Schweighöfer and Ruby O. Fee as a couple struggling with personal tragedy while fighting to escape their surreal prison. Here’s everything you need to know about the cast and characters of Brick.
The Lead Couple: Tim and Olivia
Matthias Schweighöfer plays Tim Arnovsky, a video game developer dealing with emotional shutdown after his wife’s miscarriage. Tim uses his logical mind to lead the group in finding a way out, but his personal struggles cloud his judgment. Schweighöfer is known for his roles in Army of the Dead and Oppenheimer.
Ruby O. Fee stars as Olivia Neill, Tim’s wife and an architect. She is the emotional anchor of the group, trying to mend her broken relationship while searching for an escape. Fee previously worked with Schweighöfer in Army of Thieves and has appeared in films like Polar and Asphalt Burning.
The Neighbors: A Mix of Paranoia and Desperation
Frederick Lau plays Marvin, a drug-using Airbnb guest whose panic worsens the group’s situation. Lau is famous for his award-winning role in The Wave.
Salber Lee Williams is Ana, Marvin’s girlfriend, who tries to stay calm despite the chaos. Williams is recognized for her role in The Queen’s Gambit.
Murathan Muslu portrays Yuri, a paranoid ex-cop who believes the wall is a government conspiracy. Muslu’s chilling performance adds tension to the group’s dynamics.
Sira-Anna Faal plays Lea, a quiet observer who slowly becomes more involved in solving the mystery.
Axel Werner appears as Oswalt, an elderly tenant with wartime experience, providing wisdom amid the crisis.
The Supporting Cast
Other key characters include:
- Alexander Beyer as Friedman, a suspicious long-time resident.
- Josef Berousek as Anton, a claustrophobic and violent neighbor.
- Nader Ben-Abdallah and Daniela Galbo as other trapped residents.
The Story Behind Brick
The film follows Tim and Olivia as they wake up to find their Hamburg apartment sealed off by a futuristic black wall. With no outside help, they must work with their neighbors to uncover the truth behind their imprisonment. The movie blends psychological tension with sci-fi mystery, keeping viewers guessing until the end.
“I actually thought this was the type of storyline that Rod Serling would have written for a Twilight Zone episode.” – A viewer’s review on IMDb.
“The premise is cool: Tim and Olivia suddenly find themselves sealed inside their home by strange walls. The concept is strong, and I wanted to know what would happen next.” – Another fan reaction.
Production and Release
Brick premiered at the 2025 Munich International Film Festival before streaming on Netflix on July 10, 2025. The film’s eerie atmosphere and strong performances have drawn comparisons to classics like Cube and The Twilight Zone.
Where to Watch
Brick is available exclusively on Netflix. If you enjoy claustrophobic thrillers with psychological depth, this film is a must-watch.
Also read: Netflix’s Brick Explained: Plot, Cast, and What to Expect From the Sci-Fi Thriller
Credits: Information sourced from IMDb, Netflix Tudum, PrimeTimer, and Vague Visages.
