Crime 101 Review: A Stylish Heist Thriller with Chris Hemsworth at the Wheel
In the high-octane world of cinematic crime, Crime 101 emerges as a bracing tale of a master thief, skillfully lifting a trick or two from the playbook of Michael Mann. Directed by British film-maker Bart Layton, known for the true-crime docudrama American Animals, this adaptation of Don Winslow's novella presses the pedal hard to the metal, delivering a very stylish high-stakes armed robbery thriller.
Plot and Characters: Precision and Turmoil on Route 101
Chris Hemsworth stars as Mike, a highly controlled and super-cool thief who executes jewel robberies with the nonviolent precision of a ballet-dancing brain surgeon. Armed with sleek black performance cars and Glock handguns, Mike operates under the mentorship of Money, played by Nick Nolte, a leathery old tough guy who guided him out of foster care and into a life of crime. However, Mike's meticulously planned hits along California's Route 101 catch the attention of LAPD detective Lou Lubesnick, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, a dishevelled yet smart cop reminiscent of Columbo.
As the story unfolds, Mike faces internal qualms when things go horribly wrong, and Money considers replacing him with Ormon, a trigger-happy youngster played by Barry Keoghan. Ormon's undisciplined nature, flashy motorbike, and dyed blond hair stand in stark contrast to Mike's cool demeanor. The tension escalates when Mike recruits troubled insurance agent Sharon, played by Halle Berry, for inside information on a lucrative solo job, all while hiding his criminal life from his girlfriend Maya, portrayed by Monica Barbaro.
Style and Substance: Homage and Critique
Layton's direction in Crime 101 forgoes the indirect mannerisms of his earlier films, instead applying a full-throttle approach to this enjoyable spectacle. The film revs its engine entertainingly and loudly, leaving a sizzling streak of rubber on the tarmac with its fast-paced action and sleek aesthetics. While it nods to Michael Mann's style, it avoids the military hardware and overhead convoy shots that would make it a full homage, focusing instead on character-driven drama.
However, the movie stumbles when it attempts to claim the moral high ground through perfunctory social commentary, such as brief scenes depicting LA's homeless population. A moment where Ruffalo's detective rides a city bus crowded with low-net-worth individuals feels underdeveloped, raising questions about its relevance in a story centered on high-stakes theft.
Release and Overall Impression
Overall, Crime 101 is a highly watchable film that balances style with suspense, making it a compelling addition to the heist genre. It is set for release on 12 February in Australia and 13 February in the UK and US, promising audiences a thrilling ride through the world of master thieves and moral dilemmas.
