Chris Hemsworth’s ‘Crime 101’ Celebrated as 2026’s First Great Film
Chris Hemsworth returns to the big screen in 2026’s highly anticipated film, Crime 101. The crime thriller has already generated significant buzz, with early reactions celebrating it as the first great film of the year. Critics are drawing parallels between Crime 101 and iconic titles like Heat and Collateral, suggesting it may soon be regarded as a classic.
The All-Star Cast
Crime 101 features a stellar ensemble, including:
- Chris Hemsworth as the elusive thief
- Halle Berry as a disillusioned insurance broker
- Mark Ruffalo as a relentless detective
- Barry Keoghan in a yet undisclosed role
Critical Acclaim
Reactions from film critics have been overwhelmingly positive. JoBlo describes Crime 101 as “the first GREAT film of 2026,” applauding Amazon’s strategic decision to premiere the movie in theaters rather than on streaming platforms. The suspenseful narrative and satisfying conclusion have left viewers eager for more.
Erik Davis notes the exceptional level of action in the film, aligning it with the sentiments expressed by director Bart Layton. He highlights the movie’s sophisticated approach to the heist genre, mentioning films like Out of Sight and Thief as benchmarks.
Audience Reactions
Don Winslow, the author of the novella that inspired Crime 101, praised the adaptation, encouraging fans of crime dramas like Heat and The Departed to watch it. While Matt Neglia found some initial pacing issues, he ultimately classified it as a “cool, mid-budget crowd-pleaser.” Tom Chatalbash echoed this praise, highlighting the film’s compelling characters and immersive Los Angeles atmosphere.
About the Film
Directed by Bart Layton, Crime 101 is set to premiere on February 13, 2026. The film unfolds along the famous 101 freeway in Los Angeles, where Hemsworth’s character embarks on what he hopes will be his final high-stakes heist. His plans collide with Berry’s character, leading to an unexpected collaboration. Meanwhile, Ruffalo’s detective is hot on their trail, raising tension as the plot progresses.
The film’s 140-minute runtime promises to deliver an engaging experience as the characters navigate their moral dilemmas, blurring the lines between hero and villain.
Official Synopsis
The story depicts an elusive thief involved in high-stakes heists that leave law enforcement baffled. As he prepares for a life-altering score, he partners with a conflicted insurance broker. Meanwhile, a determined detective closes in on them, intensifying the stakes just before the multimillion-dollar heist unfolds.
With its compelling storyline and a prominent cast, Crime 101 is poised to make a significant impact in theaters, marking the beginning of an exciting cinematic year.
