Filmmaker Shane Black is making his directorial comeback after seven years with the upcoming movie Play Dirty, set to release on Prime Video this October. The film stars Mark Wahlberg alongside LaKeith Stanfield and is based on an iteration of the underworld character Parker, originally created by author Donald E. Westlake.
A New Take on the Classic Parker Character
Play Dirty presents a fresh adaptation inspired by Westlake’s novel The Hunter. The character Parker has been portrayed in several previous films by actors such as Lee Marvin in Point Blank, Mel Gibson in Payback, and Jason Statham in Parker. Shane Black’s interpretation brings Mark Wahlberg into this legacy role, promising a new perspective on the infamous criminal.
Notable Cast and Team Behind ‘Play Dirty’
The production is overseen by Robert Downey Jr. and Susan Downey through their banner Team Downey. Along with Wahlberg and Stanfield, the film features a strong supporting cast including Rosa Salazar (Alita: Battle Angel), Dermont Mulroney (My Best Friend’s Wedding), Tony Shalhoub (Pain & Gain), Keegan-Michael Key (The Predator), Nat Wolf (Death Note), Chukwudi Iwuji (Pacemaker, Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 3), and Thomas Jane (The Punisher).
Plot Overview of ‘Play Dirty’
The story centers on a thief who is presented with an opportunity to execute a high-stakes heist. To succeed, he must outmaneuver a South American dictator, the New York mob, and the world’s wealthiest individual, navigating a dangerous criminal landscape filled with powerful adversaries.
Shane Black’s Signature Style and Career Highlights
Shane Black gained acclaim as the creator of the Lethal Weapon franchise and appeared as an actor in Predator before transitioning to directing. His notable works include Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, which revitalized Robert Downey Jr.’s career, the blockbuster MCU film Iron Man 3, and the darkly comedic crime movie The Nice Guys starring Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe. His last directorial project was 2018’s The Predator, which underwent significant reshoots that altered key action sequences.
Anticipation for Shane Black’s Return to Crime Thrillers
Known for his sharp wit and dark, satirical tone, Shane Black’s films often blend humor with action, as seen in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, The Nice Guys, and The Last Boy Scout. Fans of his distinctive approach are eagerly awaiting Play Dirty, which promises to reintroduce audiences to Black’s unique style in the crime genre when it premieres exclusively on Prime Video on October 1.
“Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 3”
—Chukwudi Iwuji
