The highly anticipated reunion of George Clooney and Brad Pitt in Jon Watts’ crime thriller, ‘Wolfs‘, aims to recapture the magic of their past collaborations but falls short. This noir-inflected film, debuting on Apple TV+ on September 27, 2024, tries to revive the sophisticated caper genre that once made Clooney and Pitt global superstars.
However, it ends up feeling like a tired throwback rather than a fresh take.
A Stale Reunion
Clooney and Pitt, who haven’t shared the screen since 2008’s ‘Burn After Reading‘, play professional fixers forced to work together when hired to cover up the same crime. While their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, it feels like a relic of a bygone era.
The film struggles to make their reunion feel relevant in a landscape where A-list star power no longer guarantees box office success.
Luxurious But Lacking Substance
‘Wolfs’ boasts high production values, with sleek New York City settings and a smooth score by Theodore Shapiro. Clooney and Pitt, dressed in all-black ensembles, bring their usual charisma, but it’s not enough to elevate the material.
Watch ‘Wolfs’ (2024) Trailer
The script, written by Watts, lacks the sharpness and wit necessary to make their banter engaging, leaving the audience with a sense of watching two stars going through the motions.
A Brief Spark from Austin Abrams
The film’s saving grace comes from Austin Abrams, who plays ‘The Kid,’ a jittery character who injects much-needed energy into the narrative. His presence kicks the film into gear, providing the most memorable moments, including a heartfelt monologue that outshines the performances of his more famous co-stars.
Abrams’ character becomes the linchpin of the story, adding a layer of urgency and unpredictability that is otherwise missing.
Conclusion: A Missed Opportunity
In the end, ‘Wolfs’ feels like a missed opportunity. It attempts to capitalize on nostalgia and star power but fails to deliver anything new or exciting. The film’s best moments come from its younger, less established actors, highlighting the fading relevance of its leading men in today’s cinematic landscape.
While it might appeal to die-hard fans of Clooney and Pitt, ‘Wolfs’ ultimately serves as a reminder that even the brightest stars can lose their shine.
