PLAY DIRTY, Mark Wahlberg, 2025/II. ph: Jasin Boland /© Amazon MGM Studios /Courtesy Everett Collection
BREAKING: Mark Wahlberg’s highly anticipated action comedy, Play Dirty, just premiered on Amazon Prime Video today, captivating audiences with its thrilling storyline and unexpected filming locations.
The film, based on the Parker book series by Donald E. Westlake, tells the story of Wahlberg’s character, Parker, a professional thief seeking revenge after being betrayed by his partner, Zen, played by Rosa Salazar. With the help of his ally Grofield, portrayed by LaKeith Stanfield, Parker embarks on a chaotic journey involving a treasure hunt, a South American dictator, and the New York City mob—all shot under the Australian sun.
In an exclusive reveal, it has been confirmed that Play Dirty was filmed entirely in Sydney, Australia, utilizing both studio sets and real locations. The city’s scenery was creatively transformed to mimic the urban landscapes of New York City and New Jersey. Producer James Skotchdopole highlighted the challenges of recreating winter scenes during Sydney’s summer, stating, “We had to completely shut down the streets and change all the picture vehicles to ones with left-hand drives.”
A standout sequence in the film, the opening chase, was filmed at the real-life Bankstown Paceway in Sydney, showcasing the fast-paced action that fans crave. Production designer Owen Paterson described the meticulous efforts to ensure authenticity, mentioning the use of cutting-edge technology like Unreal Engine to enhance the scene’s complexity.
The decision to film in Australia was driven by significant tax incentives from both the national and state governments. “Create New South Wales, the film commission, has been very helpful in getting us through some sticky times,” Skotchdopole noted. These incentives not only facilitated the film’s production but also showcased Australia as a prime destination for major film projects.
While much of the filming took place on carefully crafted sets, including a snowy “Candy Cane Lane” for the film’s climactic chase, the crew faced unique challenges, such as adjusting cars to drive on the opposite side of the road. “It took some up-to-the-minute techniques to make that scene happen,” Paterson explained, emphasizing the dedication of the Australian crew.
As Play Dirty hits screens, the excitement surrounding its release underscores the film industry’s adaptability and creativity. With Wahlberg’s star power and a dynamic plot, this film is poised to become a must-watch for action comedy enthusiasts.
Stay tuned for more updates and reactions as Play Dirty begins its journey in cinemas around the globe!
