Adam Driver, Miles Teller Star in 1980s Crime Drama 'Paper Tiger'

Neon has released the teaser trailer for James Gray’s upcoming 1980s crime drama, 'Paper Tiger.' The film, which stars Adam Driver, Miles Teller, and Scarlett Johansson, is inspired by Gray’s own family history and was selected to open the New York Film Festival. 'Paper Tiger' will have its limited theatrical release on November 13, 2026. The narrative is set in 1986 Queens, New York, and centers on two brothers: Gary, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is an ex-cop, and Isaac, played by Miles Teller, an engineer. Their lives become entangled when Gary involves them in a scheme with the local Russian mafia. The fallout from this criminal enterprise jeopardizes their family's safety and their aspirations for the American Dream. Scarlett Johansson plays Isaac’s wife, who navigates her own personal crises as the conflict intensifies. Director James Gray has stated that the story draws directly from his family's real-life experiences with the Russian mafia in New York during the 1980s. Neon acquired the film prior to its premiere, and it received a 10-minute standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, where it was a late addition to the 2026 competition lineup. The film is scheduled to premiere as the opening night selection of the New York Film Festival in late September 2026, followed by its limited theatrical debut on November 13, 2026. The ensemble cast also includes other actors who contribute to the period-specific atmosphere and character dynamics within the crime-ridden landscape of 1980s Queens. The film's setting in 1986 is crucial to its portrayal of the era's social and economic conditions, which influenced the characters' motivations and the unfolding plot. The involvement of the Russian mafia adds a layer of international crime and danger to the brothers' personal struggles, highlighting the complexities of immigrant life and the pursuit of opportunity in America. The critical reception at Cannes suggests a strong artistic and narrative foundation for the film, positioning it as a significant entry in the crime drama genre for 2026. The dual release strategy, opening a major film festival before a limited theatrical run, is a common approach for films aiming for critical acclaim and awards consideration.