At the Venice Film Festival premiere of "Wolfs," his new movie with Brad Pitt, George Clooney refuted a report that the stars were paid over $35 million a piece for the film. During a press conference for the film on Sunday at the Venice Film Festival, Clooney mentioned the report to the gathered press. "[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," Clooney said, per People. "I think that’s terrible, it’ll make it impossible to make films." Clooney and Pitt also acknowledged the challenges they faced getting "Wolfs" a wide theatrical release, explaining that they had to give back a portion of their salaries to secure a limited release in theaters. Representatives for Clooney did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Clooney also explained that he and Pitt gave portions of their salaries back after a deal for a theatrical release for "Wolfs" fell through, meaning it will get a limited release. Clooney previously spoke about himself and Pitt returning some of their salaries last year to Deadline, saying, "Brad and I made the deal to do that movie where we gave money back to make sure that we had a theatrical release. At the time, that wasn’t as popular an opinion as it has become in the last year and a half now." Clooney said he and Pitt gave portions of their salaries back to secure a limited theatrical release for "Wolfs." (JB Lacroix/FilmMagic) Clooney gave his opinion on the current state of Hollywood, saying, "We’re all in this industry, and we’re trying to find our way post-COVID and everything else, and so there’s some bumps along the way." (Franco Origlia/Getty Images) The pair acknowledged the industry changes that have made getting movies released in theaters more difficult. "Yes, we wanted it to be released [in theaters]. We’ve had some bumps along the way, that happens. When I did [Clooney-directed biographical sports drama] ‘The Boys in the Boat,’ we did it for MGM, and then it ended up being for Amazon, and we didn’t get a foreign release at all, which was a surprise. There are elements of this that we are figuring out." Clooney's comments about the financial reality of the industry reflect the current state of Hollywood, where streaming services are playing an increasingly dominant role and traditional theatrical releases are becoming less common. He and Pitt's decision to give back some of their salaries to secure a limited theatrical release highlights their commitment to the cinematic experience, even as the industry evolves. "Wolfs" marks Clooney and Pitt’s first time on screen together in 16 years, since 2008’s "Burn After Reading." The movie star duo play fixers hired to cover up crimes, reluctantly brought together when they are called to the same assignment. "Wolfs" reunites Clooney and Pitt onscreen for the first time in 16 years. (James Devaney/GC Images) "Wolfs" will be in theaters Sept. 20 and available to stream a week later on Sept. 27 on AppleTV+. ## ## The Impact of Streaming on Hollywood ### ### A Changing Landscape The rise of streaming services has significantly altered the film industry, and Clooney's remarks reflect the challenges filmmakers face in navigating this new landscape. As Clooney pointed out, streaming services like Apple and Amazon are increasingly involved in film production and distribution, which can lead to changes in the traditional release model. This shift has raised concerns about the future of theatrical releases, as streaming services have become major players in the market. ## ## ## Clooney and Pitt's Impact on Hollywood ### ### A Legacy of Success Clooney and Pitt are two of Hollywood's most respected and successful actors. Their decision to give back some of their salaries for "Wolfs" speaks to their commitment to the cinematic experience and their desire to see the film released in theaters, even in a limited capacity. Their willingness to make these financial sacrifices illustrates their dedication to the film industry and their recognition of the importance of theatrical releases, even in the face of changing market dynamics. Their combined star power and influence have made a significant impact on the film industry, and their involvement in projects like "Wolfs" will continue to shape the future of Hollywood. ## ## ## The Future of Hollywood ### ### A New Era of Entertainment The film industry is in a constant state of evolution, and the emergence of streaming services is only one of the many factors shaping its future. As Clooney suggests, the industry is navigating a "revolution" in which traditional models are being challenged and new ways of producing and distributing films are being explored. The future of Hollywood will be shaped by how filmmakers adapt to these changes and find new ways to connect with audiences. The industry's future will be shaped by the choices made by actors, directors, and producers like Clooney and Pitt. ## ## ## A Look Back, A Look Ahead ### ### ## ### A New Chapter for the Industry Clooney and Pitt's comments highlight the evolving landscape of Hollywood, where streaming services are changing the way films are produced and released. Their willingness to adapt to these changes and their commitment to the cinematic experience, even in the face of challenges, demonstrate the adaptability and resilience of the industry. As the industry navigates this new era, actors, directors, and producers like Clooney and Pitt will be crucial in shaping the future of Hollywood.