'Crime 101': Well-Executed Crime Thriller

On Thursday, February 26, 2026, I saw ‘Crime 101.’ Despite knowing the cast but not the plot, I thought it was well-executed. It felt like a neo noir film, particularly like Steve McQueen’s ‘Bullitt’ movie with the California setting and Chris Hemsworth’s character in chases with stylish classic cars. Speaking of Hemsworth, I think he, along with co-star Mark Ruffalo, showed some star potential away from his frequent Marvel Studios films. And Halle Berry’s character proved that just because you’re older, doesn’t mean you don’t still have some gas left in the tank.

In ‘Crime 101,’ Hemsworth played a jewel thief named Mike Davis who preferred to be nonviolent while trying to be rich. I liked him best when he was just cruising around in a Dodge Challenger and charming a publicist’s assistant named Maya, played by Monica Barbaro.

Chris Hemsworth as Mike Davis in ‘Crime 101.’ Photo courtesy of IMDb.com and Amazon MGM Studios.

Monica Barbaro and Chris Hemsworth in character as Maya, and Mike Davis, respectively, in ‘Crime 101.’ Photo courtesy of IMDb.com and Amazon MGM Studios.

Because of Davis’ frequent crimes on the US Route 101, he attracted the attention of LAPD Detective Lou Lubesnick, played by Ruffalo. I liked how Ruffalo’s character tried to be a classic macho-type detective while on the enemy’s trail.

Corey Hawkins and Mark Ruffalo as LAPD Det. Tillman and Det. Lou Lubesnick from ‘Crime 101.’ Photo courtesy of IMDb.com and Amazon MGM Studios.

And while I forget how she got mixed up in one of Davis’ heists, Halle Berry played an insurance broker named Sharon, who tried to prove to her disrespectful male colleagues that even though she’s older, she can still close a deal with clients and deserved the money and prestige that comes with it.

Overall, I liked ‘Crime 101.’ I liked the action and stunts, Hemsworth’s cool nature, Ruffalo’s gritty ambition, and Berry’s powerful sass. My only note is I think there should’v been a happier ending for Hemsworth’s character.

Check out ‘Crime 101’ in theaters now. Rated “R.”

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