Full Breakdown
Paper Tiger Trailer Unveils 1980s Crime Drama
8/12/2026, 4:20:00 AM
Core Event – Trailer Launch and Plot Overview
Neon released the first trailer for Paper Tiger on Monday. The drama, written and directed by James Gray, debuted in competition at the Cannes Film Festival and will open the New York Film Festival on the opening night in late September. Set in 1986 Queens, the story follows brothers—Adam Driver as ex-cop Gary and Miles Teller as engineer Isaac (People describes the brother as Irwin)—who become entangled in a scheme that draws the Russian mafia into their lives. Scarlett Johansson plays the brothers’ wife, whose family is placed in danger as the criminal plot threatens their pursuit of the American Dream. The film is slated for a limited theatrical release on November 13.
Background & Context – Director’s Personal Inspiration
The director’s personal connection informs the film’s depiction of immigrant-family dynamics and organized-crime pressure in a period-specific New York setting.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps – Brother Names
The trailer’s dialogue identifies the brothers as Gary and Isaac. In contrast, People’s coverage names the second brother Irwin Pearl. Both sources agree on the brothers’ occupations and the involvement of the Russian mafia, but the differing first names remain unresolved.
Official Statements & Responses – Cast Reflections
Scarlett Johansson praised working with Adam Driver, saying, “I would’ve loved to have had even more scenework with him, I love working with him,” — Scarlett Johansson, 41, told The Hollywood Reporter of Driver in May Johansson added that she also “bonded” with Miles Teller on set, describing him as “so unexpectedly tender.” Both actors have spoken about the emotional weight of portraying a family under threat, though their comments are summarized rather than quoted directly.
What’s Next – Festival Screenings and Theatrical Release
After its Cannes premiere, where it received a ten-minute standing ovation, Paper Tiger will open the New York Film Festival in late September before its limited release on November 13, positioning it for awards-season consideration.
