Written by Kayla Lybbert. Graphic by Kayla Lybbert.
On the evening of Monday, Oct. 26, “Paper Tiger” graced the screen of Trustees Theater. Its performances and realistic storytelling provided a vulnerable view into Director James Gray’s childhood.
The story follows two brothers, Gary and Irwin, as they unintentionally become entangled with the Russian mafia. Their continuous efforts to withhold information from each other and Irwin’s family results in exceedingly dangerous situations.
We open with a picturesque view of suburban life: Irwin having a mundane conversation with his younger son about winter storms and shutters. We are immediately transported back to 1986 Queens and into the tight-knit Pearl family. It is clear, despite the secrets and tragedy that unfold, “the core of every scene in the film is: I still love you.” (Gray) As we traverse this admirable family dynamic, it is soon made clear that nothing can prepare you for the cruelties of fate.
The visual language of this film is intriguing. It offers a naturalistic look that some love and some don’t. With the subjects often underexposed or indistinguishable from the background, it’s undeniably realistic. Gray is certainly an actor’s director and has techniques that are surprisingly effective despite his controversial visual style.
We really got to see Gray’s personality during his interview post-screening. After remarking on the bright lights and dismissing his auteur status, an insane amount of wisdom swept the theater. It’s no secret that many of his films, especially recently, are based on his life. “Paper Tiger” is no exception. He remarked how there was a span of a couple months where tragedy after tragedy broke his family apart. This may be his most personal film yet, and the storytelling involved truly transports you.
He admits that most of his childhood felt separated from malevolent reality. He wanted this film to highlight how one experience, a moment, can crystallize a whole other malicious world. It’s “peeling away a layer, until a switchblade’s in your eye.” (Gray) The dramatic switch from banal family life to violence and stalking certainly translates his experience well.
Gray explores the deep trust of a family and the internal conflict of keeping something from them. As the Pearl family begins to peel away the harsh layers of reality, there is one thing that drives them through the film: love. This dramatized reflection is Gray’s effort to reclaim the love he lost so young.
The expression “paper tiger” is a direct translation of the Chinese phrase, which describes someone or something that appears to be powerful, but is in fact harmless. This is a fitting title for Gray’s film, for it warns us of the dangers of secrets. It presents the idea that lies can only hurt us. More importantly, it reminds us to not take advantage of any moment. You never know when your world can crumble around you.
