Crime 101 is a confident crime thriller that feels like a loving nod to the golden era of heist films while carving out its own identity in modern Los Angeles. Directed by Bart Layton and adapted from Don Winslow’s novella, the movie weaves a tale of an elusive jewel thief (Chris Hemsworth) planning one final, audacious score, a disillusioned insurance broker (Halle Berry) at her career’s breaking point, and a relentless detective (Mark Ruffalo) determined to bring them down. What could have been a standard cat-and-mouse chase transforms into something richer: a character-driven exploration of crossroads, ambition, and the seductive pull of one last big risk.
Chris Hemsworth anchors the film with a magnetic, understated performance as the meticulous thief Davis. Far from his larger-than-life superhero roles, he brings a frayed vulnerability to a man whose nerves are beginning to show after years of calculated precision. Halle Berry delivers a powerhouse turn as the insurance broker whose professional frustrations mirror the thief’s personal ones. Her character feels authentic—fierce, intelligent, and quietly desperate. Berry’s presence grounds the film, reminding us why she’s a force in any genre. Mark Ruffalo, channeling a world-weary Columbo vibe, plays the detective with grizzled determination and subtle humor. His pursuit feels personal, not just procedural, and his interactions with the other leads create genuine friction.
The action sequences are a highlight—heart-stopping car chases that recall The French Connection, executed with gritty realism and kinetic energy. They build suspense masterfully, blending high-speed thrills with character moments that keep the stakes personal.
Crime 101 is a hugely satisfying popcorn thriller with brains and heart. It leaves you buzzing from the adrenaline. If you’re craving a cool, confident crime epic with top-tier performances and edge-of-your-seat sequences, this is one you won’t want to miss. Highly recommended—easily one of the year’s standout thrillers!
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