“Wolfs”

The lazy comedy thriller “Wolfs” feels like a movie designed for easy consumption, one that is perfect for streaming but lacking any real depth or ambition. There isn’t much going on here, but it’s forgettably entertaining thanks to the undeniable charisma of its superstar leads.

After a young man (Austin Abrams) ends up dead in an accident in a hotel penthouse, a professional fixer (George Clooney) is called in by a local politician (Amy Ryan) to clean things up. But when a second fixer (Brad Pitt) shows up, the two “lone wolves” are forced to work together. This of course leads to a chaotic night in New York City that spirals out of control, ending in ways neither one of them expected.

The plot is paper thin and lacks originality, and the twists that drive the story are predictable. The film changes direction a few times, which gives it a sense of motion but not much substance. It kicks off with a strong opening, but the stakes feel too low to really care about what happens. There are some boring shootouts and other gunplay, but nothing too remarkable action-wise. What the movie does have going for it is the fact that Clooney and Pitt are inherently watchable.

Writer / director Jon Watts largely leans on their effortless banner and chemistry, which at least keeps things entertaining (if unremarkable). Their dynamic gives the film a laid-back vibe, as if no one involved is trying too hard — and somehow, that tends to work in the movie’s favor. It’s more about watching two seasoned stars trade witty lines and barbs than getting invested in the actual story. If you like these actors, you’ll most likely enjoy this movie.

Not every film needs to be groundbreaking to entertain, and “Wolfs” embraces that notion. It’s basic and generic, but delivers just enough charm from its two leads to make it enjoyable.

By: Louisa Moore