'Wolfs' review: Clooney and Pitt shine in familiar caper

Courtesy of Apple TV+

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If not for the one-two star power of George Clooney and Brad Pitt, then writer-and-director Jon Watts’ “Wolfs” would be a lot less appealing.  After all, it’s a pretty basic storyline about a pair of hitmen who unexpectedly cross paths and then fall into the usual routine of bickering at each other until they find common ground. It’s formulaic, sure, but in today’s streaming ecosystem, you could do worse. 

Clooney and Pitt portray fixers entangled in a chaotic situation in a New York City penthouse. The story kicks off when Margaret (Amy Ryan, solid as always), a district attorney up for reelection, calls for help after her young date (Austin Abrams) appears to have fallen to his death. Clooney’s character, known only as “Margaret’s Man,” arrives first, soothing her nerves with a speech reminiscent of a weary Michael Clayton. Shortly after, Pitt enters as “Pam’s Man,” summoned by the hotel owner (the instantly recognizable voice of Frances McDormand) to clean up the mess.

Though the two seasoned professionals are initially reluctant to work together, their sarcastic exchanges and passive-aggressive remarks drive the narrative. Complicating matters, they discover a stash of drugs, and the presumed dead kid suddenly springs back to life like a chicken with its head cut off, ramping up the chaos.

While the film features typical hijinks, car chases, and shootouts, none are particularly groundbreaking. A standout moment occurs when Abrams delivers a hilarious monologue about his predicament, leaving Clooney and Pitt in bemused disbelief.

Ultimately, it’s the chemistry and charm of Clooney and Pitt that keep "Wolfs" engaging. While it may not be a film you’ll rush to rewatch, it lays enough groundwork for the already announced sequel, you might be keen to check on them in a couple of years.

All in all, "Wolfs" is a solid, steady caper—sometimes, that’s all you need.

Grade: B- 

WOLFS streams on Apple TV+ Friday, September 27th.