Although not a disaster, ‘Wolfs’ fails to capture its stars’ charm.

Whenever a captivating story unfolds, we’re eager to follow, especially if it features iconic movie stars. Their presence can turn even the simplest of settings—be it hotel rooms, car interiors, or alleyways—into something special and enchanting.

This idea faces scrutiny in the comic thriller “Wolfs,” which brings together George Clooney and Brad Pitt, pairing them as charming men who effortlessly banter through tough situations. While their past collaborations in the “Ocean’s” series delighted audiences two decades ago, there’s a sense of fatigue in this latest venture. It feels as though these legendary figures have been recycling similar roles and storylines and are now showing signs of weariness.

Although Clooney and Pitt occasionally ignite the memorable chemistry reminiscent of their earlier work, particularly that of Butch and Sundance from the post-indie era, “Wolfs” struggles to capture that same magic. Writer-director Jon Watts, known for his work on the “Spider-Man” franchise, attempts to create scenarios for clever dialogue but falls short in reviving the excitement. His direction lacks the finesse of Steven Soderbergh, who masterfully understands how to showcase the charisma of leading stars.

Surprisingly, the film doesn’t pick up momentum until after the initial chaos—a crash, a scream, and a disoriented District Attorney played by Amy Ryan. It takes a full half hour for the story to gain traction. Ryan’s character, anxious about her future, seeks help from Clooney’s character, a stoic fixer with a plan. Unbeknownst to them, Pitt’s character, a solitary problem-solver, also enters the scene, leading to immediate tension as the two men, unfamiliar with each other, clash. However, when the situation escalates—highlighted by the discovery of drugs in the hotel room—Frances McDormand’s character insists they must collaborate, though the reasons remain unclear.

The initial sluggishness of the film is puzzling. Once Ryan departs, her absence is felt, revealing the low stakes of their supposed night of adventure. The drugs serve as an uninspiring plot device, and there’s a lack of an intriguing antagonist. As they pursue a young man through late-night Chinatown, the chase fails to heighten any meaningful connection to the story, and the term ‘mystery’ seems an overstatement for what follows.

Ultimately, the film hinges on the charisma of Clooney and Pitt. Stripped of clear objectives, their performances are the main draw as they navigate the convoluted scenario. After Ryan’s character exits, the overall purpose of their endeavor becomes increasingly ambiguous. It’s understood that it is meant to be a mystery, but it fails to engage effectively.

Even so, Clooney and Pitt continue to deliver a level of charm that surpasses much of what currently graces the screen. Toward the film’s conclusion, there’s a distinct nod to a renowned pairing from cinematic history, evoking memories of heartfelt farewells. While Watts may not fully achieve the intended homage, the sole takeaway from “Wolfs” is gratitude for these two stars, whose timeless allure remains enjoyable, despite the film’s shortcomings.

Source: Los Angeles Times