Missed Chris Hemsworth & Mark Ruffalo on the Same Screen? Watch This New Crime Thriller

Just before Valentine's Day on February 13th, a film was released that's not exactly a romantic date movie, but certainly a treat for crime fans.

Crime 101 brings together a stellar cast: Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, and Barry Keoghan.

Bart Layton, the director of the crime drama American Animals, once again proves that he's more interested in the people on both sides of the law than in shootouts.

What Is 'Crime 101' About?

Mike Davis is a seasoned thief whom the police have been pursuing for years without success. After a recent robbery, a bullet whizzes past his head, prompting Mike to decide it's time to retire.

A girlfriend named Maya has appeared on the horizon, and Mike is eager to start a clean life with her. His latest case comes from Sharon, an insurance broker driven to despair by her ungrateful boss.

However, his retirement won't be quiet. Detective Lou is finally on the trail of the elusive thief, and a young, daring robber named Ormon dreams of taking Mike's place in the criminal hierarchy.

'Crime 101' Is a Masterful Mix of Crime Thriller and Well-Written, Humane Drama

If you're expecting a fast-paced action like in Michael Mann's Heat, you'll be disappointed – Layton has made a fundamentally different film. Yes, there's action, but it's focused and doesn't overshadow the main point: the characters' internal struggle.

Mike Davis isn't a cynical villain but rather a man who finds himself on the wrong side of the law. Even in the most dangerous situations, his "thou shalt not kill" rule applies, which evokes a paradoxical sympathy.

Detective Lou, on the other hand, adheres meticulously to the law but sacrifices his career for his principles. Their confrontation doesn't produce any sparks, but it does lead to a rare crime drama finale that's emotional and even almost sentimental.

'Crime 101' Is Worth Watching for Its Cast Alone – From Chris Hemsworth and Mark Ruffalo to Barry Keoghan

Chris Hemsworth, known for playing Thor, convincingly transforms into a quiet, thoughtful burglar with a strong inner core. Mark Ruffalo plays an idealistic, weary-eyed detective whose character is believable, even when he goes overboard in his zeal for duty.

Halle Berry doesn't have much screen time, but her character, Sharon, is a crucial catalyst for the plot – she is a woman driven to the point of no return by the corporate machine.

Barry Keoghan, star of Saltburn, once again proves that he plays villains best – his Ormon is young, brazen, and unscrupulous, and deeply repulsive.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Crime 101'?

• Crime 101 has 87% from critics and 84% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.2/10.

• On Letterboxd, Crime 101 scored 3.2/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Crime 101'?

Crime 101 is currently playing in theaters.