The most striking absence from this morning’s Cannes lineup has got to be James Gray’s “Paper Tiger,” which back in March, Variety had reported was submitted to the festival. Is this all just a stunt to build up more excitement for Gray’s movie? That’s what a few skeptics have theorized to me this morning.
Regardless, Cannes boss Thierry Frémaux has now addressed speculation about whether Gray could bring his new film to Cannes, offering cautious optimism.
The Cannes chief tells Variety that he has already seen the film and praised it highly, describing it as “a wonderful film — a very James Gray film, very indie.” He added that it reflects the director’s earliest sensibilities, comparing it to “Little Odessa” and emphasizing that Gray “has never stopped being himself.”
Frémaux also acknowledged the challenges behind the project’s production, noting that the film was “complicated to put together.” He emphasized that, for Gray, filmmaking is rarely straightforward, explaining that “to do his work as a filmmaker, he doesn’t just snap his fingers — films have to be put together.” The comments suggest that while the artistic side is complete, logistical hurdles remain — what they are? We’re not entirely sure.
According to Frémaux, the only obstacle preventing an announcement is unresolved contractual matters. “There are still some contractual issues to resolve. I hope they’ll be settled very soon and that we’ll be able to announce the film,” he said.
If those details are finalized in time, Gray’s return to Cannes could mark one of the more anticipated auteur-driven premieres of the lineup. Gray, who is beloved in France, has premiered five films at Cannes, including “Armageddon Time,” “The Immigrant,” “Two Lovers,” “We Own the Night,” and “The Yards.” He was also on the Cannes jury in 2009.
“Paper Tiger” stars Scarlett Johansson, Miles Teller, and Adam Driver; the plot centers on two brothers chasing the American Dream, only to become ensnared in a seemingly perfect scheme that unravels into a nightmare. As their world collapses into violence and corruption, their family finds itself under threat from the Russian “Mafiya,” pushing their bonds to the breaking point.
If I had to bet, given Frémaux’s openly enthusiastic praise for the film and his clear desire to include it in the lineup, it will likely be added to the Competition very soon.
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