UPDATE: Mark Wahlberg’s highly anticipated action comedy, Play Dirty, is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video as of today, October 15, 2023. This film, directed by Shane Black, takes viewers on a wild ride with a plot centered around thievery, betrayal, and revenge.
In Play Dirty, Wahlberg stars as Parker, a professional thief seeking vengeance after a betrayal by his teammate, Zen, played by Rosa Salazar. Joined by his friend Grofield, portrayed by LaKeith Stanfield, Parker plunges into a chaotic adventure involving a treasure hunt, a South American dictator, and the New York City mob.
What may surprise fans is the film’s primary shooting location. While the storyline unfolds in the United States, much of Play Dirty was filmed in Sydney, Australia. Both studio sets and various locations around the city were utilized to recreate New York and New Jersey.
Producer James Skotchdopole emphasized the meticulous planning required to create an authentic East Coast look in Australia. “Everybody had to do their homework to build New York in Sydney,” he stated. The production team faced unique challenges, including filming winter scenes during Sydney’s summer, complicating the logistics of the shoot.
The film features real locations, like the Bankstown Paceway racetrack, which was the backdrop for an exhilarating chase scene. “It took some up-to-the-minute techniques to make that scene happen,” said production designer Owen Paterson. The team utilized advanced technology, including Unreal Engine, to enhance the action-packed sequences.
In addition to the racetrack, numerous custom-built sets were created for pivotal scenes, such as the log cabin where the betrayal occurs and a snowy intersection reminiscent of New Jersey winters. Visual effects were employed to add snow for the film’s climactic moments, creating a winter wonderland in the midst of Australia’s summer.
Tax incentives played a significant role in the decision to film in Australia. Skotchdopole noted that they received generous support from both national and state governments, particularly from Create New South Wales and Ausfilm. “The incentives are something that the producers can rely on,” he explained, highlighting the importance of these financial benefits for future projects.
As Play Dirty becomes available to audiences globally, viewers can look forward to an action-packed experience that cleverly combines comedy and thrilling escapades. The film’s unique filming locations and behind-the-scenes efforts add a fascinating layer to the viewing experience, making it a must-watch.
Stay tuned as more updates about Play Dirty and its success come to light! Share your thoughts and excitement on social media as this film takes the streaming world by storm!
