Hollywood mega-stars George Clooney and Brad Pitt reunited with a bang at the 2024 Venice Film Festival on Sunday, September 1, for the much-anticipated premiere of their latest film, ‘Wolfs’. Directed by Jon Watts, the film sees both Clooney and Pitt portraying lone fixers who find themselves assigned to the same job. This thrilling narrative marks yet another collaboration between these long-time friends and celebrated actors.
George Clooney and Brad Pitt’s friendship dates back decades, and they have previously worked together on several high-profile projects, including the blockbuster Ocean’s trilogy and the dark comedy, ‘Burn After Reading’. The partnership has always been lauded both for its on-screen chemistry and the camaraderie that both actors share off-screen.
At the red carpet premiere, Clooney couldn’t resist adding a dash of humor when asked about working with Brad Pitt once again. “There’s nothing good about it. It’s all a disaster,” Clooney joked, before adding more seriously, “It’s fun to work with people you know really well.” The familiarity and mutual respect the two share were evident throughout the event, garnering excited reactions from fans and media alike.
The film has been a topic of discussion not just for its storyline and star cast, but also for a recent controversy regarding the salaries of its leading men. A New York Times article alleged that both Clooney and Pitt were paid over $35 million each for their roles in the film. Addressing these claims at the premiere, Clooney was quick to downplay the figures cited. “[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 stated.
Earlier in February, a close source had revealed to People magazine that both actors were eager to work together again. “Brad and George are forever friends.
. 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 source commented, emphasizing the strong bond and professional admiration that exist between the two stars.
The premiere itself was nothing short of spectacular. According to Variety, the cinematic event culminated with a 4-minute standing ovation for the film’s cast. As Clooney and Pitt entered the theater, they greeted the audience with a resounding “Buonasera!”, prompting cheers and shout-outs from adoring fans.
After the screening of the crime romp, the two actors hugged on stage before sharing a celebratory dance to Sade’s “Smooth Operator.” Clooney then turned towards his wife, Amal, and shared a heartfelt kiss with her. Following this tender moment, Clooney and Pitt descended the stairs from the balcony where they had been seated, to engage with the enthusiastic crowd. Both actors were notably twinning in black suits, adding a touch of synchronized style to their grand appearance.
‘Wolfs’ also boasts a talented supporting cast including Amy Ryan, Austin Abrams, and Poorna Jagannathan. Despite Jon Watts, the film’s director, being unable to attend the Venice premiere due to a positive COVID test, his influence was still very much present in the film.
As anticipation builds for the movie, exciting news has already emerged about its future. Earlier this month, Apple announced that a sequel to ‘Wolfs’ is already in development, with both Watts and the lead stars, Clooney and Pitt, set to return.
For those eager to experience the latest thriller from this dynamic duo, ‘Wolfs’ is scheduled to hit theaters on September 20. Additionally, the movie will be available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 27, allowing fans around the world to witness this much-anticipated reunification of two of Hollywood’s most beloved actors.
The premiere of ‘Wolfs’ at the Venice Film Festival marks not just the debut of a thrilling crime narrative but also celebrates the enduring friendship and professional partnership of George Clooney and Brad Pitt. The excitement surrounding the film and its stars attests to their indelible impact on the world of cinema.
