Movie enthusiasts attending the New York Film Festival will have a rare opportunity to experience James Gray's 'Paper Tiger' in its intended glory. IndieWire exclusively revealed that the film will grace the silver screen in 35mm during its opening night on Friday, September 25. Screenings are scheduled at both Alice Tully Hall (6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.) and the Walter Reade Theatre (6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.), offering multiple chances to witness the director's vision on celluloid.
Gray expressed his profound appreciation for the traditional format in a statement shared with IndieWire. "There are many ways to watch a film today, and many can be beautiful. But a 35mm print, projected right, has that thing we call ‘the magic of the silver screen.’ There is just nothing else like it," he remarked. He further emphasized that this presentation is a dream come true for him and a deserving showcase for the work of his director of photography, Joaquin Baca-Asay, and production designer, Happy Massee, among the crew. Gray sees the "silky, indelible format" as a powerful reminder of cinema's unparalleled nature, echoing his recent discussions on film having a "vinyl" moment in an increasingly digital world.
'Paper Tiger' delves into a gripping family crime saga. The narrative follows former police officer Gary Pearl, portrayed by Driver, who pulls his brother Irwin, played by Teller, into a treacherous deal involving Russian mobsters operating from New York City's docks. Meanwhile, Hester, depicted by Johansson, harbors a secret that strains her family's already fragile bonds. True to Gray's signature style, the film explores the life-altering consequences of impulsive decisions made in pursuit of the American dream.
Following its high-profile festival premiere, Neon plans to release 'Paper Tiger' in theaters starting Friday, November 13. Ahead of its wider release, Gray will also be honored at the Virginia Film Festival on October 22, where he will receive the festival's directing award. Popcorn Wire listeners can look forward to a live Q&A with Gray hosted by IndieWire's "Screen Talk" podcast co-hosts Anne Thompson and Ryan Lattanzio, which will later be available across all podcast platforms.