Rating: ★★★☆☆
Director: Jon Watts
Cast: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Austin Abrams, Amy Ryan
Runtime: 108 minutes
Platform: Apple TV+
Jon Watts, best known for his work on the Spider-Man trilogy within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, returns to his crime roots with Wolfs, a film that attempts to merge slick visuals and star power into a captivating narrative. However, while the performances of George Clooney and Brad Pitt keep the film afloat, the lack of depth in the script and the meandering pace prevent Wolfs from reaching the heights of the duo’s past collaborations.
Wolfs Movie Review: Plot Overview
Wolfs follows two experienced fixers, Jack (George Clooney) and Nick (Brad Pitt), who are tasked with working together on a complex job. As former partners, their shared history is rife with tension, which leads to moments of dry humor and sharp banter.
However, what begins as a promising setup for a thrilling crime caper soon spirals into a muddled narrative that lacks focus. While the film tries to balance suspense and comedy, it never quite hits the mark, ultimately leaving viewers wanting more substance behind the glossy exterior.
What’s Good: Star Power Steals the Show
There’s no denying that Clooney and Pitt are Wolfs’ greatest assets. Their effortless charisma is on full display throughout the film, particularly in their scenes together, where their chemistry from previous collaborations, such as the Ocean’s franchise, shines through.
Clooney’s polished, slightly serious demeanor contrasts nicely with Pitt’s more laid-back, devil-may-care approach. In a film that struggles with pacing and stakes, the two leads manage to bring energy to even the most underwhelming scenes.
Austin Abrams, a rising star, also delivers an impressive performance, standing out among veteran actors. His character brings much-needed vitality to the film, injecting moments of spontaneity and unpredictability that elevate certain sequences. Abrams proves he has the range and presence to hold his own alongside Clooney and Pitt, giving viewers a glimpse of a promising career ahead.
What’s Bad: A Thin Script Trying Too Hard
Unfortunately, Wolfs falters in its attempt to balance a witty crime thriller with emotional depth. Jon Watts, who wrote and directed the film, clearly aimed for a sharp, Tarantino-esque dialogue style. Yet, instead of achieving a natural flow, the film’s dialogue often feels forced.
There’s a sense that the movie is trying too hard to appear cool, leading to a disconnect between the characters and their motivations. The humor, which should have been a major asset, falls flat in key moments, further dampening the overall tone.
After an engaging first act that introduces the players and sets up the premise, the film loses steam. As the second act unfolds, the plot becomes more aimless, with no real stakes driving the story forward. This lack of urgency makes it hard to stay invested in the outcome, and viewers may find themselves checking out as the narrative begins to drag.
Direction and Music: A Mixed Bag
Jon Watts’ directorial style has clearly evolved from his indie roots to his blockbuster success, and there are flashes of brilliance throughout Wolfs. Some of the film’s visual moments are captivating, especially in the early stages when Watts showcases his ability to craft tension and intrigue. However, as the film progresses, the creative choices become less inspired, leaving the final act feeling routine and predictable.
The score, composed by Theodore Shapiro, complements the film’s tone without ever standing out. It’s serviceable in highlighting emotions but is ultimately forgettable. Much like the film itself, the music doesn’t leave a lasting impact, fading into the background as the credits roll.
Should You Watch It?
Wolfs will appeal primarily to die-hard fans of Clooney and Pitt, who enjoy watching the duo share the screen once again. Their undeniable charisma is enough to make the movie an enjoyable, albeit shallow, viewing experience. However, for those looking for a gripping crime drama or a clever, witty script, Wolfs may leave you feeling underwhelmed. It’s the kind of movie that works as background noise on a lazy afternoon but lacks the substance to make a lasting impression.
Wolf Movie Trailer:
Watch it if:
- You’re a fan of George Clooney and Brad Pitt’s previous collaborations.
- You appreciate slick visuals and lighthearted crime films.
Skip it if:
- You’re looking for a gripping, high-stakes narrative.
- You prefer crime films with deeper character development and sharper writing.
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