Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · June 9, 2025 · Entertainment

Scarlett Johansson Channels Marilyn Monroe in 'Gritty' Mafia Thriller!

Scarlett Johansson has been seen for the first time in character for her next film Paper Tiger

SCARLETT JOHANSSON SHOCKS ON SET OF NEW FILM 'PAPER TIGER' - BUT IS THIS THE END OF HER ACTING CAREER?

In a stunning turn of events, Hollywood's beloved actress Scarlett Johansson has been spotted on the set of her new film "Paper Tiger" and she's looking more dramatic than ever! The 40-year-old A-lister was seen shooting scenes outside a residential home in New York City, where she looked like she was about to burst into tears.

But what really caught our attention is Johansson's transformation into her character. Ditching her usual glamorous self for a look that's more "50s sex symbol" than "superstar," the actress sported a short, curly blonde wig and heavy makeup - including bold red lipstick à la Marilyn Monroe. Her outfit was equally striking, consisting of a conservative powder blue knit top, ivory linen blazer, and dark khaki slacks with brown open-toe high heels.

The 40-year-old movie star was shooting a scene outside a residential home in New York City where she looked distressed and near tears

But what's really got everyone talking is who she was surrounded by on set. Miles Teller, known for his roles in "Top Gun: Maverick" and "The Spectacular Now," was spotted accompanying Johansson, leading us to believe he might be playing her husband in the film. And if that wasn't enough, two young boys in private school uniforms were also seen with the pair - but what's their connection to the story?

WHAT'S 'PAPER TIGER' ALL ABOUT?

According to Deadline, "Paper Tiger" is a tense and gritty drama that revolves around two brothers trying to make a quick buck. However, they soon find themselves entangled in a scheme that's too good (or bad) to be true - leading them down a dark path of corruption and violence. The family becomes the target of brutal Russian Mafia terror, causing their bond to fray and betrayal to become an all-too-possible reality.

The Hollywood pinup had on a short, curly blonde wig with heavy makeup that included red lipstick

We're told Adam Driver, fresh from his Star Wars fame, will also star in the film alongside Johansson. And don't even get us started on the plot twists - suffice it to say that "Paper Tiger" promises to be a wild ride!

A NEW DIRECTION FOR JOHANSSON?

But what's really got everyone buzzing is Johansson's upcoming projects beyond "Paper Tiger." We know she'll star in Wes Anderson's "The Phoenician Scheme," but did you hear about her directorial debut with "Eleanor the Great"? That's right, folks - Johansson is trying her hand at directing and we can't wait to see what she comes up with!

Her clothes were conservative as she wore a powder blue knit top, an ivory linen blazer and dark khaki slacks

Speaking of which, the actress recently opened up about her experience directing in an interview. She revealed that it was a "really rewarding" process, giving her a new perspective on filmmaking and allowing her to appreciate the work that goes into bringing a story to life.

IS THIS THE END OF HER ACTING CAREER?

So, what's next for Johansson - will she focus on directing or stick to acting? The answer remains unclear. In an interview with Collider, she confessed: "I don't know... I'm not sure... I guess we'll see." And when asked if this film marks a new beginning for her, she responded with a cheeky smile, "My intention is to work on projects I would go and see... Whether they're 'Jurassic World' or this one."

Marilyn Monroe seen in her heyday in the 1950s when working for 20th Century Fox

One thing's for certain - Johansson's not hanging up her acting boots just yet! The actress clarified that she's still an actor for hire (and we can't wait to see what she does next).

In this image Teller is seen to the right as he has on a blue jacket and plaid shirt

Teller also seemed to wearing a wig as he had on prescription glasses

The star was seen getting into a cherry red sedan with yellow New York license plate

Johansson attends The Phoenician Scheme premiere at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City on May 28