Fans of George Clooney and Brad Pitt have reason to celebrate with “Wolves,” a new crime comedy that reunites the dynamic duo from Ocean’s Eleven on screen. Directed by Jon Watts, best known for his work on Tom Holland’s Spider-Man trilogy, the film is a throwback to an era when Hollywood was obsessed with witty banter and charismatic leads rather than superheroes and CGI spectacle. Though “Wolves” may be charming with its star power and effortless vibe, it ultimately delivers a movie that’s as forgettable as it is fun.
A Reunion of Icons
In “Wolves,” Clooney and Pitt play underworld fixers who are as mysterious as they are competent. Clooney’s character is a seasoned professional who fixes problems with a mysterious flair. When a high-profile district attorney (played by Amy Ryan) finds herself in a difficult situation – an accidental death and a missing drug stash – Clooney’s fixer is called in to clean up the mess. Pitt, another fixer with similar skills, soon becomes an unexpected partner due to a scheduling mess.
The chemistry between Clooney and Pitt is palpable and enjoyable. The two actors, who have aged like fine wine, share a camaraderie that feels authentic and warm. Their playful banter and mutual teasing about their ages is reminiscent of their past collaborations. It’s clear both actors are enjoying this, even if the film doesn’t live up to their combined potential.
A crime comedy with a gentle twist
“Wolves” attempts to capture the spirit of classic buddy comedies like “Midnight Run” and “48 Hours,” but with a modern twist. The film’s premise—a pair of fixers forced to work together—provides ample opportunity for humor and tension. Still, while the interactions between Clooney and Pitt are lovely, the film lacks the energy and excitement that could have elevated it to classic status.
Instead of the high-octane thrills that might be expected, “Wolves” opts for a quieter approach. The fixers’ journey through New York City to find the missing drugs is filled with moments of gentle humor and introspection. As they wander the city’s underbelly, their shared quirks and flaws become apparent, forming a bond that is as touching as it is entertaining.
A Disorienting Plot
Despite the film’s engaging main characters, “Wolves” suffers from a disorienting plot that fails to fully hold the audience’s attention. The story, which involves stolen drugs, a district attorney and a web of crime, seems underdeveloped. The narrative takes its time, often to the detriment of momentum, and many threads are left unresolved by the end.
The film’s villains—the Albanian gangsters and shady middlemen—are under-explored, and their motivations remain unclear. This lack of depth extends to the film’s main characters, who, despite their charm, are only lightly sketched. The fixer’s backstory and personal stakes are not explained in depth, leaving the viewer with a sense of missed opportunities.
A Film for Streaming
“Wolves” made its debut at the Venice Film Festival and will be available on Apple+ by the end of the month. It’s a film that fits comfortably into the streaming landscape—an enjoyable, if not groundbreaking, watch. The film’s leisurely pace and simple plot make it a suitable choice for a relaxed evening, though it may not leave a lasting impression.
The film’s easygoing nature and the pleasant presence of Clooney and Pitt are its highlights. Their chemistry and the film’s nostalgic nostalgia for classic crime comedies make it worth a watch for fans of the genre. However, those seeking a more thrilling or intellectually stimulating experience may find “Wolves” lacking much.
Final Thoughts
In short, “Wolves” is a film that delivers on its promise of bringing two beloved actors together in a charming, if slightly forgettable, crime comedy. The reunion of George Clooney and Brad Pitt is a highlight, and their effortless rapport is fun to watch. However, the film’s lack of an entertaining plot and its tendency to meander may leave some viewers wanting more.
Jon Watts has created a film that celebrates the joy of seeing familiar faces in a familiar setting, but it falls short of creating a truly memorable experience. As entertainment, “Wolves” is fun and charming, but it may not be the great film fans were hoping for. For now, it remains a delightful entertainer – perfect for a relaxed evening with two of Hollywood’s most charismatic stars.
This version of the article maintains a friendly and accessible tone while providing a comprehensive review of the film.