Gavin Goudey Says He Was in Awe of “Paper Tiger” Costar Adam Driver Before They Met: ‘Oh My God, That’s Kylo Ren’ (Exclusive)

**Gavin Goudey Reflects on His Experience Working with Adam Driver in ‘Paper Tiger’**

Emerging talent Gavin Goudey has expressed his admiration for Adam Driver, highlighting how the seasoned actor profoundly influenced him during the filming of the upcoming crime drama, ‘Paper Tiger’. The film, which also stars Scarlet Johansson and Miles Teller, explores the journey of two brothers whose pursuit of the American Dream leads them into perilous dealings with the Russian mafia.

Goudey, who is making his feature-film debut, shared insights from his time on set during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the film’s premiere at the New York Film Festival on September 25, 2026. The 20-year-old actor portrays Driver’s character’s nephew, which, he noted, made it easier for him to connect with his role. Describing the experience, he remarked, “It was kind of the easiest part of my job — was to look up to him — because I already naturally do that.”

The young actor admitted to being particularly starstruck by Driver, who is well-known for his role as Kylo Ren in the Star Wars saga. “He’s Kylo Ren,” Goudey said, adding, “It was just like, ‘Oh my God, that’s Kylo Ren… I mean, I love that guy.” This sense of awe became a source of inspiration for Goudey as he navigated his first major acting role.

Throughout filming, Goudey observed Driver’s meticulous approach to his craft, which imparted valuable lessons about preparation and confidence. He recalled a specific scene where Driver showcased his musical talents by playing the piano. “Each take we did of that — he did something different,” Goudey explained. “He changed the rhythm, the timing, the song, and each time it was beautiful. And I also found that correlates the same with his acting.” The consistency in Driver’s performance, despite its variations, impressed Goudey and reinforced the significance of thorough preparation for an actor.

Beyond Driver, Goudey found himself learning from the entire ensemble cast, including Scarlett Johansson. As he portrayed Driver’s character’s nephew, Goudey was particularly struck by Johansson’s understanding of physicality in acting. He noted that before emotional scenes, she would consciously use her body as a tool to prepare mentally and physically, which he found enlightening. He shared with E! News, “That’s our instrument as actors, our body — and she would use that to get herself there, and to get herself back out of it, too.”

Moreover, he credited Miles Teller, who plays his character’s father, with teaching him about the practical aspects of working on a professional set. Goudey stated, “Miles actually taught me a lot of technical stuff, like how to operate on set,” acknowledging that this was his first time on a production of such scale. “It was really, really cool to witness how he operates as number one on the call sheet, and how he treats everybody around him.”

‘Paper Tiger’ is set against the backdrop of 1980s New York City, following the brothers Gary, portrayed by Driver, and Irwin, played by Teller, as their ambitious dreams become dangerously intertwined with the Russian underworld. Their aspirations not only put their lives at risk but also endanger the well-being of Irwin’s wife, Hester, portrayed by Johansson.

The film, described as a gritty exploration of familial bonds and the perils of ambition, is directed and co-written by James Gray, a filmmaker known for his compelling storytelling and character-driven narratives. ‘Paper Tiger’ is poised for release in theatres on November 13, and Goudey’s performance is already generating buzz among industry insiders.

As Goudey embarks on what promises to be a notable acting career, his first experience on a major film set appears to have equipped him with invaluable insights. His interactions with established stars have not only inspired him but have also instilled a profound appreciation for the art of acting — a journey that audiences will soon witness in the debut of ‘Paper Tiger’.