The Dirty Dozen

Director Aldrich manages to zero in on the griping and grime, the chaos and cohesiveness of Americans at war, and in so doing, makes The Dirty Dozen a clean hit that packs the highest-echelon example of wit and wallop.

The Dirty Dozen with a fairly sharp script, plenty of excitement and adventure and a good cast still doesn't swim above the flood tide of over done World War II movie themes.

It is another magnificent performance by Marvin. Among his men are Telly Savalas Jim Brown Clint Walker, Charles Bronson, John Cassavetes, Donald Sutherland, Trini Lopez and Al Mancini. Every one is a scene-stealer at one moment or another.

In spite of an intelligent performance from Lee Marvin as the officer, director Robert Aldrich spins it out at such length that by the time the men actually get to France one has lost all interest.

Robert Aldrich directs with great skill, but can't conceal the spurious ethics and titillating violence.