**Gladiator 2 Rating Continues Ridley Scott’s Franchise Trend From Original Movie**

“Wolfs” is a film that truly deserves to be experienced in a movie theater. Having just watched it myself, I can assert this with confidence. Unfortunately, the chances you’ll get to see it on the big screen are slim. Initially, Apple planned a full theatrical release for George Clooney and Brad Pitt’s reunion movie, but those plans have recently been scaled back to a limited, one-week run before it hits streaming platforms. This strategy shift comes from mixed results with theatrical releases over the past year, rather than any issues specific to this film. Nevertheless, I believe this was the wrong movie to start their pullback.

**Wolfs**

*Genre: Thriller, Comedy, Crime*

*Director: Jon Watts*

*Release Date: September 20, 2024*

*Studios: Apple Studios, Plan B Entertainment, Smokehouse Pictures*

*Writers: Jon Watts*

*Cast: George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Amy Ryan, Austin Abrams, Poorna Jagannathan*

The storyline is compelling: Amy Ryan’s character finds herself in a dire situation when a young man she invited to her hotel room ends up in a pool of blood. Desperate, she calls in Clooney’s character, a seasoned “fixer,” to handle the mess. Just as he begins his work, another knock at the door reveals that the hotel, monitoring through hidden cameras, has called in another elite problem solver—played by Pitt. Now, these two experts must collaborate to navigate the chaotic scenario. With such a gripping premise and a star-studded cast featuring Clooney and Pitt, it’s a recipe for success.

**Wolfs Takes Exactly The Right Approach To Its Comedy**

Jon Watts, the writer-director of “Wolfs,” nails the comedic element without overcomplicating it. The film strikes the perfect balance between being elaborate and straightforward, akin to a more subdued version of Shane Black’s movies like “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang” and “The Nice Guys.” The humor is multifaceted, and Watts ensures we care about the characters as much as we laugh with them.

**Stellar Performances by Clooney & Pitt**

The comedic dynamic between Clooney and Pitt is electric. Their banter over trade secrets and methods adds layers to their characters. Each one knows a guy; each one has a place; whose methods are better? Their interactions are brilliantly written and performed, capturing both their rivalry and reluctant partnership.

Watts leverages Clooney and Pitt’s star personas subtly. There are jokes about their age and status as leading men that add an extra layer of meta-humor. When both characters assume they should be the first to speak, it’s not just two professionals clashing—it’s two movie stars competing for dominance.

**Austin Abrams Is Wolfs’ Secret Weapon**

Austin Abrams plays a crucial role in “Wolfs,” adding another dimension to the narrative. As the supposedly dead body that turns out to be alive, his character throws Clooney and Pitt off balance. This twist not only provides a fun plot wrinkle but also introduces a new, hilarious dynamic that enriches the story. Abrams’ interactions with Clooney and Pitt are pivotal moments that fully engage the audience.

**Character Development and Emotional Investment**

The true strength of “Wolfs” lies in its ability to make us care about its characters. Watts ensures that we are invested in watching Clooney and Pitt evolve from competitors to partners. Abrams’ character serves as a catalyst for this transformation, giving them common ground to bond over and grow towards.

**Sequel Potential**

On the day its theatrical release was reduced, it was also confirmed that a sequel is in development. Although it’s uncertain whether this will come to fruition, it presents an exciting opportunity to introduce a third character—perhaps a more ruthless fixer. Imagine Denzel Washington or Jodie Foster joining the fray, or even someone from the new generation of stars like Florence Pugh. That would be a spectacle worth watching on the big screen.

**Final Thoughts**

“Wolfs” premiered at the Venice Film Festival and runs for 108 minutes. It has an R rating for language throughout and some violent content. It will be released in U.S. theaters on September 27. With its meticulously crafted humor, strong character development, and star-studded cast, “Wolfs” is a film that shouldn’t be missed.

4.0