Mark Wahlberg is back and ready to serve up another entertaining performance. This time, the charismatic star is tackling the popular literary character Parker in the action thriller Play Dirty. Based on Donald E. Westlake’s long-running book series, the Prime Video original follows the master thief as he teams up with his longtime ally and fellow career criminal Grofield (LaKeith Stanfield) to carry out the score of a lifetime and steal a priceless statue, facing looming threats around every corner.
Play Dirty marks the triumphant return of director Shane Black, who has also worked on the Lethal Weapon franchise, as well as films such as Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Iron Man 3, and The Nice Guys. Jam-packed with rip-roaring action sequences, exciting explosions, and snappy dialogue, Play Dirty does the enduring Westlake character justice, delivering an entertaining experience for audiences throughout its two-hour run while also giving the legendary thief’s story a unique twist.
Shane Black Gives the Iconic Master Thief His Signature Spin in ‘Play Dirty’
For decades, Hollywood has achieved varying degrees of success in adapting Donald E. Westlake’s thrilling “Parker” book series. Over the years, some of the silver screen’s most recognizable stars have portrayed the cunning character, with actors like Lee Marvin, Robert Duvall, Mel Gibson, and Jason Statham all bringing their own unique spin to the role. Now, Mark Wahlberg is slipping into the career criminal’s stealthy shoes for the action thriller Play Dirty, which follows Parker as he becomes embroiled in a high-stakes scheme to steal a priceless statue.
Instead of adapting a specific novel from the series, director Shane Black and his creative collaborators, Charles Mondry and Anthony Bagarozzi, decided to incorporate elements and characters from the books while opting for a modern setting, rather than basing it in the 1960s (when Westlake first penned them). Black also made the refreshing decision to incorporate Parker’s frequent companion Grofield into the action flick, with the gregarious, theater-loving criminal being brilliantly played by Atlanta alum LaKeith Stanfield. In an interview with TheWrap, Black said of the unique characters and their dynamics:
“And what is great to me about Parker in general is that these are not James Bond types. They’re everyday heroes…They’re completely screwed up and dysfunctional. But one thing they’re good at, and that’s the thing they come together to do, is the everyman version of what would traditionally be a Bond-type adventure.”
Stanfield’s portrayal of Grofield lends Play Dirty a more buddy-comedy tone, and his easygoing chemistry and lively banter with Wahlberg’s Parker make for a more enjoyable viewing experience. Giving the legendary robber a loyal accomplice sets the thriller apart from past adaptations, where the character often worked alone and appeared more ruthless. Wahlberg stepped in at the last minute to headline the project after Robert Downey Jr. dropped out shortly before production began, and the change-up proved to be a blessing in disguise as the actor always excels at playing a likeable antihero.
‘Play Dirty’ Is a Clever Caper Full of Charm and Chaos
Play Dirty may not be a groundbreaking cinematic achievement. However, it more than delivers for anyone looking for a fun, entertaining film that emulates the charm and nostalgia of retro action comedies, such as 48 Hrs. and Lethal Weapon. Mark Wahlberg is in fine form as the smooth and calculating Parker, who lives by his own code of conduct and believes there should be honor among thieves. He thrillingly squares off against the corrupt leader of a New York City crime syndicate, Lozini, played impressively by Tony Shalhoub in an against-type role. The film features additional appearances by stars like Rosa Salazar, Keegan-Michael Key, and Nat Wolff, all of whom bring their A-game.
The explosive opening scene of Play Dirty sets the tone for the ensuing chaos and high-octane action, culminating in a shocking finale. Parker finds himself dodging bullets as a member of his heist team goes rogue and savagely eliminates his loyal crew, including his close friend Philly (Thomas Jane). This epic betrayal sets the stage for the movie’s events as Parker reluctantly teams up with the assailant Zen (Rosa Salazar) for a bigger score involving 15th-century sunken treasure. However, he has his own personal motives for the surprising partnership that he refuses to reveal.
Overall, Play Dirty is a clever caper that features memorable performances by its stacked ensemble cast and is brimming with good ‘ole chaotic fun reminiscent of the beloved action films of cinema’s past. Though its Rotten Tomatoes score may not reflect it (it currently has just a 47% Tomatometer), Play Dirty is more than worthy of being your Friday night entertainment and is just begging to be enjoyed from the comfort of your couch, especially if you love some sharp humor with your car chases, gunfights, and explosions. Play Dirty is streaming now on Prime Video.
- Release Date
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October 1, 2025
- Runtime
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125 Minutes
- Writers
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Donald E. Westlake, Shane Black, Anthony Bagarozzi