Chris Hemsworth’s latest movie isn’t just another option on a streaming service, as it’s a deliberate throwback to the kind of film that demands a theatrical viewing. The actor himself emphasized the need for a theatrical viewing experience for Crime 101.
Chris Hemsworth on why Crime 101 should be watched in theaters
In the lead-up to the film’s release, Chris Hemsworth has been vocal about the unique power of seeing a film like Crime 101 in a theater. He pinpoints a shifting audience appetite, stating, “I think there’s a resurgence in the appetite for films like this, because there is nothing like sitting in a cinema with a bunch of strangers with a big box of popcorn.”
This sentiment echoes fan reactions, with one writing, “Hemsworth nailed it. Nothing beats the collective gasp, the tense silence, then the whole theater exploding when the twist hits.”
This collective energy is central to the film’s design. Based on Don Winslow’s novella and directed by Bart Layton, Crime 101 channels the gritty spirit of 1990s crime classics. Hemsworth stars as a cunning jewel thief operating along Los Angeles’s 101 freeway, pursued by a relentless detective played by Mark Ruffalo. The formidable cast, including Halle Berry and Barry Keoghan, intensifies the film’s dramatic stakes. It offers a sophisticated cat-and-mouse game built on performance and tension rather than just spectacle.
Backing this vision, Amazon MGM Studios is fueling anticipation with a major marketing push, including a large-scale IMAX rollout and unique partnerships, like a fan event with e-sports organization 100 Thieves. The film premiered globally in cities like London and Los Angeles ahead of its wide release on February 13, 2026, building strong word-of-mouth.
While a handful of preview viewers expressed reservations, the overall response confirms Chris Hemsworth’s movie successfully taps into a craving for intelligent, character-driven thrillers.
Originally reported by Devanshi Basu on ComingSoon.
