Paper Tiger
An intense crime drama by James Gray (We Own The Night, The Yards), starring Adam Driver and Miles Teller as two very different brothers who come into conflict with the ruthless Russian mafia in 1980s New York.
The brothers Irwin and Gary are doing everything in their power to realise their American dream. Irwin, in particular, longs for a better life for his family. While prosperity grows all around him, he feels being treated less favourably than Gary, who goes about his life in expensive suits and a gleaming Mercedes. Then Gary offers him a golden opportunity: to carry out a large-scale clean-up operation in the foul-smelling Gowanus Canal in Brooklyn. What appears to be a straightforward technical job turns into a nightmare. Before Irwin realises it, he finds himself entangled in the ruthless world of the Russian mafia, where corruption, violence and deceit reign supreme. When their families are also put in danger, the brothers’ loyalty and family ties are put to the test.
James Gray is a master at portraying moral ambiguity and complex family relationships. As in his finest films, in Paper Tiger he links individual destinies with universal themes. With his classic visual style, brooding atmosphere and eye for the rough edges of American life, he once again evokes the spirit of Elia Kazan. The film is driven by the inner conflicts of Gary, portrayed by Adam Driver in one of the finest performances of his career.
Written by EK