LOCARNO, Switzerland — Director James Gray will receive the Pardo alla Carriera lifetime achievement award at the 2026 Locarno Film Festival, organizers said, recognizing the American filmmaker’s contribution to contemporary cinema.
Gray will be presented with the honorary award during a ceremony at Piazza Grande on Aug. 9, where he will also introduce his latest feature, “Paper Tiger,” according to festival information reported by Swiss news agency Keystone-SDA and other outlets.
The Locarno Film Festival said the award honors Gray’s body of work, which includes films such as “Little Odessa” (1994), “We Own the Night” (2007), “Two Lovers” (2008), “The Immigrant” (2013), “The Lost City of Z” (2016), “Ad Astra” (2019) and “Armageddon Time” (2022).
Locarno artistic director Giona A. Nazzaro described Gray in a festival statement as a filmmaker whose work draws on influences including film noir, literature and themes connected to identity and family. Nazzaro said the recognition was intended to celebrate Gray’s artistic approach and his contribution to cinema.
The festival will also feature screenings of selected works from Gray’s career, including “We Own the Night” and “Two Lovers,” as part of its program surrounding the director’s appearance.
“Paper Tiger,” Gray’s newest film, is scheduled to be shown after the award ceremony at Piazza Grande. The film stars Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson and Miles Teller and was presented at the Cannes Film Festival earlier in 2026, according to reports on the Locarno announcement.
Gray, who began his feature filmmaking career with “Little Odessa,” has built a filmography often centered on crime, family relationships, migration and personal identity. His work has earned international recognition, including appearances at major film festivals.
The 2026 Locarno Film Festival is scheduled to run from Aug. 5 to Aug. 15 in Switzerland. The festival has not announced any changes to the planned award presentation, with Gray’s honorary ceremony and “Paper Tiger” screening remaining the next confirmed events.
