Crime 101 has hit theaters. This crime thriller is already a trending topic. Many are talking about its star-studded cast. The movie hit screens on February 13, 2026. It premiered in London earlier on January 28, 2026. This film is based on a popular novella. It brings together top Hollywood talent. Amazon MGM Studios released it in the US. Sony Pictures Releasing International handled global distribution. This release adds to the busy movie news cycle.
A Visionary Director at the Helm
Bart Layton directs Crime 101. He also co-wrote the screenplay. Layton is known for his unique approach. His past films include The Imposter and American Animals. These works blend true crime with compelling narratives. Layton has a background in documentary filmmaking. He brings that discipline to his narrative features. This meticulous research adds depth. He spoke with real jewel thieves for inspiration. He also consulted LAPD officers. His style emphasizes suspense over action. It recalls classic heist movies. Layton forgoes typical action tropes. He focuses on sharp performances.
The Source Material: Don Winslow’s Novella
The film adapts Don Winslow’s 2020 novella, also titled Crime 101. Winslow is a celebrated crime fiction author. The novella focuses on a meticulous jewel thief. This thief follows a strict code, “Crime 101”. Police initially attribute the crimes to cartels. Detective Lou Lubesnick suspects a lone wolf. The story is set along the U.S. Route 101. The film captures this duality in its title. It explores crime and the rules within it.
A Powerhouse Ensemble Cast
Crime 101 boasts an impressive cast. Chris Hemsworth stars as Mike Davis. He is an elusive jewel thief. Mark Ruffalo plays Detective Lou Lubesnick. Ruffalo is a seasoned detective character actor. Halle Berry portrays Sharon Coombs. She is an insurance broker caught in the heist. Barry Keoghan joins as Ormon. He is a volatile biker. Monica Barbaro plays Maya, Mike’s love interest. Corey Hawkins, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Nick Nolte also star. Nolte plays Money, a key underworld fence. The cast’s performances are a major highlight.
The Plot: A High-Stakes Score
Mike Davis is a disciplined jewel thief. He plans robberies carefully to avoid detection. His heists occur along the 101 freeway. He steals millions in diamonds. However, a bullet grazes him during one job. This shakes his confidence. He seeks an “ultimate score”. Mike meets Sharon Coombs. She feels undervalued at her insurance firm. He proposes a partnership for a lucrative heist. Meanwhile, Detective Lubesnick investigates the string of thefts. He believes a single suspect is responsible. Their paths inevitably collide.
Critical Reception: Positive Buzz
Critics have offered mostly positive reviews. The film is praised for its style and performances. Hemsworth’s portrayal is noted as a departure from his usual roles. Ruffalo and Berry also receive accolades. The movie is called “smart” and “slick”. It is a satisfying throwback to classic crime thrillers. Some reviews mention familiarity in its plot. However, the strong cast elevates the material. The direction and cinematography are also commended. The film holds an 87% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Box Office Performance: A Modest Start
Crime 101 had a modest opening weekend. It grossed an estimated $3.9 million on Friday. Projections estimate an $11.8 million three-day debut. This falls below some expectations given its budget. The film reportedly cost $90 million to produce. It needs to earn approximately $225 million worldwide to break even. Its theatrical run is ongoing. Word-of-mouth may help boost its performance.
Distribution and Streaming Future
Amazon MGM Studios distributed the film in the US and Canada. Sony Pictures Releasing International handled international markets. Like many modern movies, Crime 101 is expected to move to streaming. MGM releases often land on Prime Video. A specific streaming date is not yet announced. It typically takes 40-75 days for MGM theatrical releases to hit SVOD. This strategy helps capture buzz. The film’s availability on streaming platforms will expand its reach beyond initial movies news.
Crime 101 offers a compelling crime narrative. Its star power and direction make it a notable entry. The movie continues to generate discussion among fans of the genre.
