AceShowbiz - Paper Tiger by acclaimed director James Gray is set to compete at the 79th Cannes Film Festival, adding significant star power to the prestigious event scheduled for May 12-23. This latest crime drama, featuring a high-profile cast including Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver, and Miles Teller, joins the competition as a late addition, confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter.

The film marks another collaboration with Gray, known for his previous Cannes selections such as The Immigrant, Two Lovers, and We Own The Night. Gray’s presence at Cannes is well-established, having served on the festival jury in 2009 and with five of his prior works competing on the Croisette.

Neon has acquired the North American rights to Paper Tiger ahead of its festival premiere. International sales are managed by The Veterans, led by Vincent Maraval and Kim Fox, while CAA Media Finance oversees North American rights. Additionally, French distributor SND has secured local distribution, fueling expectations of a strong Cannes showing.

The film is reportedly a return to Gray’s earlier, more genre-driven style. It centers on two brothers, portrayed by Adam Driver and Miles Teller, whose pursuit of the American Dream becomes complicated by a dangerous entanglement with the Russian mafia. This tense plot tests their familial bonds amidst escalating threats.

Originally, Anne Hathaway and Jeremy Strong were cast in key roles but had to exit due to scheduling conflicts. Their replacements, Scarlett Johansson and Miles Teller, reunite Johansson and Driver on screen after their acclaimed performances in 2019’s Marriage Story, a film that earned both actors Oscar nominations.

The production team behind Paper Tiger includes producers Rodrigo Teixeira (RT Features), Anthony Katagas (AK Productions), as well as Raffaella Leone, Gary Farkas, Marco Perego, Carlo Salem, and Andrea Bucko. Executive producers comprise Lee Broda, Jeff Rice, Riccardo Maddalosso, and Emily Salveson.

Neon continues to be a dominant force at Cannes, having released the last six Palme d’Or winners domestically. In 2026, they have multiple entries competing, including Cristian Mungiu’s Fjord, Hirokazu Kore-eda’s Sheep in the Box, Arthur Harari’s The Unknown, and Na Hong-jin’s Hope, alongside Paper Tiger.

The announcement came after Cannes artistic director Thierry Frémaux revealed the initial 2026 lineup on April 8, stating the selection was incomplete. Widespread speculation had already suggested that Paper Tiger would be added, especially after the confirmation of French distribution by SND.

With its compelling storyline, remarkable cast, and seasoned director, Paper Tiger is poised to be a highlight of the 79th Cannes Film Festival, reaffirming James Gray’s strong relationship with the festival and his continued influence in contemporary cinema.