The Dirty Dozen (1967)

The Dirty Dozen (1967)

The Dirty Dozen is a classic American war film directed by Robert Aldrich, set during World War II. The story follows Major John Reisman (Lee Marvin), who is tasked with training a group of twelve convicted criminals for a secret mission behind enemy lines. These men, all hardened criminals serving long prison sentences, are given a chance at redemption by participating in a dangerous assault on a Nazi stronghold.
The film is known for its unique blend of action, dark humor, and complex characters. The “Dirty Dozen” are each given distinct personalities, from the tough and cynical to the more sympathetic, creating a dynamic group that must work together to complete the mission. As they train and prepare for the mission, their relationships evolve from mistrust to camaraderie, leading to thrilling combat sequences.
The Dirty Dozen is regarded as a groundbreaking war film, with its anti-hero protagonists and gritty tone influencing many films that followed. The film’s success led to several sequels and inspired a genre of movies featuring misfit teams tackling dangerous missions.