James Gray discusses cinema and 'Paper Tiger' at Locarno Film Festival

Director James Gray attended the Locarno Film Festival to receive an honorary award and premiere his new film, *Paper Tiger*. During press discussions, Gray reflected on the nature of cinema, describing it as the "closest thing we have to a dream" and a "window into somebody else’s consciousness."

Regarding his directorial style, Gray admitted, "I'm not a good director of actors," explaining that he prefers to prioritize the performers' comfort and freedom to connect naturally. He noted that he often shoots rehearsals because "messiness is always interesting" and prefers to let actors lead on what they need to build their performances.

*Paper Tiger*, which stars Adam Driver and Miles Teller with supporting roles from Scarlett Johansson, follows two brothers whose pursuit of the American Dream leads them into conflict with the Russian mafia.