Play Dirty

An uncredited second director on 1962's "Lawrence of Arabia," the name Andre DeToth is not one you typically see discussed in cinematic circles as one of the greats. However, with a generous output of work through the 40s, 50s and 60s, DeToth certainly established himself as a notable figure in film history, weaving from noirs to westerns and perhaps best known for directing the original "House of Wax" in 3D (DeToth, ironically, could not see 3D for himself, having lost one eye at an early age).

DeToth blended western vibes into his final film, a war picture inspired by the exploits of various units in North Africa during World War II. "Play Dirty" is now available in a limited-edition Blu-ray from Twilight Time Movies, and this 1968 example of combat-centered cinema is a fantastic final entry by an underrated film artist.

The film features an excellent cast led by Michael Caine, Nigel Green and Harry Andrews, and follows a group of anti-heroes in North Africa during the war. These abhorrent and indifferent operate outside the mainstream military, embodying the unsympathetic vibes of western characters such as those in Sam Peckinpah's "The Wild Bunch." The film was shot by Edward Scaife ("The Dirty Dozen") and features an exhilarating score from Michel Legrand.

The restoration is a labor of love that shines with clarity in both visuals and sound, while the story pops and sizzles with excitement and unexpected thrills. Bonus features include an isolated music and effects track, as well as the original theatrical trailer.

"Play Dirty"
Twilight Time Movies Blu-ray
$29.95
https://www.twilighttimemovies.com/play-dirty-blu-ray/