George Clooney and Brad Pitt reunited on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at the illustrious Venice Film Festival to unveil their latest cinematic venture, a gripping thriller titled “Wolfs.” The much-anticipated film, which casts both Clooney and Pitt as lone fixers assigned to the same high-stakes job, has already created a ripple of excitement among fans and critics alike. This new project is yet another testament to the enduring bond and professional synergy between the two Hollywood legends, who have previously shared the screen in iconic films such as the “Ocean’s” trilogy and “Burn After Reading.”
Clooney, appearing in high spirits, spoke candidly to People magazine during the film’s premiere. Reflecting on his collaboration with Pitt, Clooney humorously remarked, “There’s nothing good about it. It’s all a disaster.” He quickly shifted to a more sincere tone, adding, “It’s fun to work with people you know really well.” This light-hearted exchange highlights the camaraderie that has clearly stood the test of time, enhancing their on-screen chemistry and off-screen friendship.
The event also provided Clooney with an opportunity to address a controversial report by The New York Times, which claimed that he and Pitt had each been paid over $35 million for their roles in “Wolfs.” Clooney was quick to set the record straight. “It was an interesting article, and whatever her source was for our salary, it is millions and millions and millions of dollars less than what was reported. And I am only saying that because I think it’s bad for our industry if that’s what people think is the standard bearer for salaries… it’ll make it impossible to make films,” Clooney clarified. His comments shed light on the broader implications of inflated salary reports and their potential to distort the economic realities of the film industry.
Earlier in the year, a source told People that Clooney and Pitt were ecstatic about the opportunity to work together again.
. “Brad and George are forever friends,” the source revealed. “They like and respect each other no matter how many years in between gigs together. ‘Wolfs’ was a meaty project, and both took a real interest in it. They are excited about the film and enjoying the hell out of it as time leads up to the release.”
The world premiere of “Wolfs,” directed by Jon Watts, was nothing short of triumphant. According to Variety, the film received a 4-minute standing ovation from the audience, a clear indicator of its immediate impact. As Clooney and Pitt entered the theater, they greeted the eager crowd enthusiastically with a booming “Buonasera!” This warm acknowledgment elicited excited shouts from fans, eager to grab the actors’ attention.
When the film’s credits rolled, the emotional climax of the premiere saw Clooney and Pitt sharing a celebratory hug before grooving to the smooth tunes of Sade’s “Smooth Operator.” Clooney then turned to his wife Amal, sharing a heartfelt kiss, embodying the evening’s joyous and celebratory spirit. The pair, twinning in matching black suits, then made their way from the balcony to the auditorium, greeting the cheering fans.
Besides Clooney and Pitt, “Wolfs” boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including talents like Amy Ryan, Austin Abrams, and Poorna Jagannathan. The anticipation for the film doesn’t end here; a sequel has already been announced by Apple, with Watts and both stars committed to return. Unfortunately, Jon Watts had to miss the Venice premiere due to testing positive for COVID-19 but remains a driving force behind the successful launch and future of the franchise.
“Wolfs” is set to hit theaters on September 20, followed by its streaming debut on Apple TV+ on September 27, promising to engage a global audience with its dynamic storytelling and powerhouse performances.
The Venice Film Festival continues to be a prestigious platform for groundbreaking cinema, and this year’s edition, featuring Clooney and Pitt’s electrifying partnership, is no exception. As the festival progresses, audiences can look forward to more cinematic gems, including the debut of Brady Corbet’s three-hour post-war epic, “The Brutalist.” For now, “Wolfs” stands as a highlight, reminding us of the magic that happens when true friends and seasoned professionals come together to create art.
