‘Paper Tiger’ Joins Cannes Competition, Acquired by Neon

The film "Paper Tiger," written and directed by James Gray, has been added to the Palme d'Or competition lineup at the Cannes Film Festival and will have its world premiere there. The distributor Neon has acquired the film's North American rights, while SND will handle its French distribution.

Film Details and Synopsis

"Paper Tiger" features a cast including Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson, and Miles Teller. The film reunites Johansson and Driver, who previously worked together on "Marriage Story."

According to an official synopsis, the story follows two brothers pursuing the American dream who become involved in a scheme described as "too good to be true."

As they navigate a world of corruption and violence, their family is terrorized by the Russian 'Mafiya,' which strains their bond.

Production and Distribution

The film's producers are Rodrigo Teixeira of RT Features and Anthony Katagas of AK Productions. Additional producers include Raffaella Leone, Gary Farkas, Marco Perego, Carlo Salem, and Andrea Bucko. Executive producers are Lee Broda, Jeff Rice, Riccardo Maddalosso, and Emily Salveson.

Neon's acquisition of North American rights was first reported by Variety. With this film, Neon is involved with six titles in the Palme d'Or competition this year.

Festival Context and Statements

"Paper Tiger" was not included in the Cannes Film Festival's official lineup announced the prior week but was subsequently added as a late entry.

Cannes chief Thierry Frémaux told Variety he was hopeful the film would be added after the initial announcement, describing it as "a wonderful film, a very James Gray film, very indie."

He noted the project was "complicated to put together" and that "there are still some contractual issues to resolve."

Director James Gray has a history with the festival, having previously brought five films to Cannes: "Armageddon Time," "The Immigrant," "Two Lovers," "We Own the Night," and "The Yards." He also served on the Cannes jury in 2009.

With this addition, Gray will be one of two American filmmakers in the main competition, alongside Ira Sachs with his film "The Man I Love."