Hollywood icons George Clooney and Brad Pitt recently opened up about their mixed feelings regarding the release strategy of their latest film, Wolfs. The highly anticipated comedy, written and directed by Jon Watts, marks the reunion of Clooney and Pitt after 16 years since their last collaboration in Burn After Reading (2008). Despite their star power, Wolfs will see only a limited theatrical release before it premieres on Apple TV, a decision that has left the actors feeling somewhat disappointed.
“It’s a bummer,” Clooney admitted during a press event on Sunday. He acknowledged that while streaming platforms like Apple TV are essential for the future of filmmaking, offering new opportunities and expanding audiences, there’s still something special about the traditional theatrical experience that streaming can’t fully replicate.
“We’ll always be romantic about the theatrical experience,” Pitt added. “At the same time, I love the existence of the streamers because we get to see more story, we get to see more talent, it gets more eyes. It’s a delicate balance right now, and it’ll right itself.”
Wolfs is a classic crime caper where Clooney and Pitt play lone-wolf professional fixers who are forced to collaborate, leading to a series of comical mishaps. Originally, Apple had planned to give the film a wide theatrical release before bringing it to its streaming platform. However, the plan changed, and now Wolfs will only appear briefly in select U.S. theaters before its global debut on Apple TV.
When asked what it means for the industry when two of its biggest stars can’t secure a broad cinema release, Clooney jokingly remarked, “Clearly we’re declining.” However, both actors emphasized their gratitude for still being able to work on projects they love, especially with people they enjoy working with.
“I got to say, just as I get older, just working with the people that I really enjoy spending time with has really become important to me,” said Pitt, who turned 60 last year. Clooney, in a playful jab, quipped that Pitt, at 74, is “very lucky at this age to still be working.”
On a more serious note, Clooney took the opportunity to refute a recent New York Times report that claimed both he and Pitt were paid over $35 million each for their roles in Wolfs. “I’m only saying that because I think it’s bad for our industry if that’s what people think is the standard bearer for salaries. I think that’s a terrible thing. It will make it impossible to make a film,” he said.
Despite their concerns, Clooney and Pitt remain optimistic about the future of filmmaking. Wolfs is currently being showcased out of competition at the Venice Film Festival, which runs until September 7. The film’s release will undoubtedly spark further conversation about the evolving dynamics between traditional cinema and streaming platforms.
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