'Paper Tiger' trailer out: Adam Driver, Miles Teller face Russian Mafia threat in James Gray film
Washington, August 11
NEON has unveiled the first trailer for 'Paper Tiger', James Gray's 1980s-set crime drama starring Adam Driver, Miles Teller and Scarlett Johansson, ahead of the film's planned theatrical release during the heart of awards season.
Written and directed by Gray, 'Paper Tiger' is set in 1986 Queens, New York, and follows brothers Gary and Isaac, played by Driver and Teller respectively.
Gary is a former police officer, while Isaac is an engineer. The brothers become caught up in a dangerous scheme initiated by Gary, eventually drawing them into the orbit of the Russian mafia.
The unfolding conspiracy threatens the brothers' pursuit of the American Dream while putting strain on their relationship and placing their family in serious danger. Johansson plays Isaac's wife, a character dealing with turmoil of her own as the situation escalates.
The newly released trailer presents a tense and atmospheric New York City, establishing the film's gritty crime-thriller setting and the growing danger surrounding the brothers. The drama is set to receive a limited release in the United States on November 13.
Before its theatrical rollout, 'Paper Tiger' will open the New York Film Festival at the end of September.
The film previously had its world premiere in competition at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received a 10-minute standing ovation following its screening, as per Deadline.
As per Deadline, Gray has said the story is loosely based on his own family's encounter with the Russian mafia in 1980s New York City, giving the film a personal connection to the period and setting explored in the drama.
NEON acquired 'Paper Tiger' shortly before the Cannes Film Festival, where the film was added as a late entry to the 2026 Competition lineup.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The "American Dream" angle feels familiar since we see similar aspirations in our own films. The Russian mafia element adds an interesting layer. Scarlett Johansson is always a plus. The 10-minute standing ovation at Cannes says a lot. 🙌
Interesting that it's based on Gray's own family experiences. That usually adds authenticity. However, the plot feels a bit standard for a crime thriller—brothers in trouble with mafia. Hopefully the execution makes it stand out. The trailer looks promising though.
Bros caught in a dangerous situation is a classic trope, but when done well, it's brilliant. The setting in 1986 and the Russian mafia angle feels fresh for mainstream audiences. I hope the story focuses more on the emotional strain on the family rather than just action. Trailer looks intense!
I love period pieces, and the 80s aesthetic in the trailer is spot on. The acting pedigree is fantastic—Driver, Teller, Johansson—this could be an awards season favorite. The personal connection from Gray adds depth. Can't wait for the release in November. 🎬
The "American Dream" theme is universal, but I hope the film doesn't glorify crime. That said, Gray's films are usually character-driven, and this one seems no different. The brotherly conflict is something we see in Indian cinema too, so it should resonate. Good trailer overall.
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