When news broke that George Clooney and Brad Pitt were reuniting for “Wolfs,” expectations soared. These are two of Hollywood’s most enduring leading men, whose names alone can draw audiences. Yet, the film industry has changed dramatically since they last shared the screen in “Burn After Reading” over a decade ago. With “Wolfs,” directed by Jon Watts of “Spider-Man” fame, one might hope for a refreshing non-franchise outing. Unfortunately, the film squanders its A-list talent on a dull narrative that feels more like a corporate product than a cinematic experience.
Set against the backdrop of New York City, “Wolfs” introduces us to Margaret, a district attorney played by Amy Ryan, who finds herself in dire straits one evening. Desperate, she calls upon a mysterious fixer (George Clooney) to clean up her mess. Unbeknownst to her, the hotel’s owner, Pam, has dispatched her own operative (Brad Pitt) for the same purpose. The two men, both lone wolves in their own right, are none too pleased to be forced into collaboration.
The premise hints at potential—a clash of titans, both in character and in the real-life camaraderie of Clooney and Pitt. However, the film quickly settles into predictability. Their reluctant partnership is marked by incessant bickering that fails to amuse, and their mission becomes convoluted when they discover a stash of heroin linked to the Albanian mob. The stakes are raised, but the tension isn’t.
Character development is virtually nonexistent. Clooney’s fixer is gruff and no-nonsense, a departure from his typically suave roles, but the script doesn’t delve deeper than surface-level quirks. Pitt’s character, meanwhile, is a familiar trope—the confident professional who’s seen it all—but without any new angle or insight. Their dynamic feels forced, and their real-life friendship undermines the supposed animosity between their characters.
The supporting cast is equally underutilized. Amy Ryan’s Margaret is more plot device than person, and any potential for her character to add depth or complexity is ignored. The film relies heavily on the star power of its leads to carry the weight, but even they can’t inject life into the uninspired dialogue and lackluster plot.
Visually, “Wolfs” is competent but uninspired. There’s a slickness to the cinematography that feels more suited to a high-end commercial than a feature film. The action sequences lack energy, and the New York setting is underused—a mere backdrop rather than an integral part of the story.
The humor falls flat throughout. Attempts at banter between Clooney and Pitt often revolve around tired jokes about aging—aching backs, reading glasses, and the like. What might have been endearing nods to their real-life statuses as Hollywood veterans instead come off as lazy writing.
It’s perplexing that Jon Watts, whose “Spider-Man” trilogy revitalized the web-slinger for a new generation and grossed billions, delivers such a tepid effort here. Perhaps it’s the shift from the superhero genre to action comedy, or maybe it’s the lack of a strong script to guide his direction. Whatever the case, “Wolfs” lacks the spark and creativity that could have set it apart.
In an era where streaming services like Apple TV+ are investing heavily in original content, “Wolfs” feels like a missed opportunity. Clooney and Pitt reportedly invested their own money to ensure a theatrical release, signaling their belief in the film’s potential. Yet, despite their commitment, the end product doesn’t justify the effort.
The film industry often laments the decline of the movie star era, questioning whether big names can still draw audiences in an age dominated by franchises and superheroes. “Wolfs” seems to inadvertently support this concern. Even with two of the most charismatic actors in Hollywood, the film fails to engage or entertain meaningfully.
Ultimately, “Wolfs” is a reminder that star power alone isn’t enough. Without a compelling story, well-developed characters, and sharp writing, even the brightest talents can’t make a film shine. It’s a disappointment for fans hoping to see Clooney and Pitt recapture the magic of their earlier collaborations.
Perhaps the most frustrating aspect is the squandered potential. With a premise ripe for clever twists and dynamic interplay, “Wolfs” could have been a standout. Instead, it plays it safe to the point of tedium, leaving audiences with a forgettable experience.
In the end, “Wolfs” doesn’t offer anything new or exciting. It’s a bland addition to the action comedy genre that fails to capitalize on its assets. For viewers seeking the charisma and entertainment value that Clooney and Pitt can undoubtedly deliver, this film regrettably falls short.
