Chris Hemsworth’s Crime 101 Revives Steve McQueen Heist Movies

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A really excellent crime film came out this year, which is a welcome surprise since great ones seem rarer now than they used to be. These days, much of the best crime fiction is found on television, unless it’s directed by masters of the genre like Martin Scorsese, Andrew Dominik, or Guy Ritchie. This new film brings to mind the classic appeal of a well-done heist movie.

Released just days ago, this film is already being hailed by many as a standout of 2026. It perfectly captures the excitement of a classic heist movie, while also feeling fresh and modern. A lot of its appeal comes from its clear inspiration from the stylish heist films starring Steve McQueen in the 1970s.

Crime 101 Works as a Solid Heist Thriller With a Moral Center

The film creates a strong sense of place and atmosphere, reminiscent of acclaimed crime movies set in specific regions. Its success stems largely from its Los Angeles setting and well-developed characters. While the movie isn’t focused on traditional robberies, it builds momentum and emphasizes a distinct, energetic style in its action scenes, prioritizing the protagonist, Mike Davis’s, personal journey.

The movie doesn’t just focus on the main character; the supporting characters also have interesting and satisfying journeys that are clearly shown through visuals, themes, and the choices they make. Chris Hemsworth is the lead, with strong performances from Halle Berry and Barry Keoghan. Initially, the film suggests everyone operates in a gray area, morally speaking, and will be tested. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the characters’ core beliefs and principles are what truly drive them.

Everyone changes throughout the story except for Mike Davis, who has a major awakening at the end. After going through many difficult experiences, Mike rediscovers his values and builds new connections that ultimately lead to his survival and freedom. A key element of the film, and one that doesn’t get enough attention, is Monica Barbaro’s character, Maya. She serves as Mike’s moral compass, helping him understand what truly matters and what he should focus on.

Just like Maya, every character in the film feels thoughtfully developed and integral to the story. The film beautifully portrays their struggles and determination, ultimately shaping their choices. Mark Ruffalo’s character, Lou, is a pillar of integrity and self-awareness, especially when facing difficult truths. As the characters truly see each other, the final act becomes powerfully driven by their relationships, and the action sequences become secondary to the deeper themes the movie explores.

While this movie won’t appeal to everyone, even viewers who dislike it can appreciate the stunning visuals. Whether it’s the film’s deeper meaning or simply the captivating depiction of Los Angeles’ criminal world, the atmosphere is powerful and relevant to the story. It will be fascinating to see how Crime 101 holds up over time and what kind of impact it leaves, as it already embodies the spirit of classic heist movies.

Steve McQueen’s Heist Classics are at the Heart of Crime 101

Recently, people have been drawing comparisons between Crime 101 and other films, but this isn’t a helpful way to look at it. These comparisons actually raise expectations unfairly and miss what makes Crime 101 unique. Specifically, comparing it to [unspecified film] doesn’t quite fit, as the two aren’t really similar.

Although Crime 101 shares a few things in common with films like Heat – such as being set in Los Angeles and featuring a clear hero-villain dynamic – it’s more inspired by classic heist movies overall. The film creates a stylish and clean moral story through its mood, visuals, and nods to other films, but it avoids the harsh violence that’s characteristic of Heat.

The film focuses on the human side of the criminals, and it presents them in a glamorous light. It intentionally evokes classic heist movies, a genre that’s largely disappeared for modern viewers. The filmmakers make it clear what older films inspired the story, using familiar themes and even dialogue. Essentially, Crime 101 is a modern take on the heist films popular in the 1960s and 70s.

The film focuses mainly on two Steve McQueen classics: 1968’s Bullitt and The Thomas Crown Affair. These films are specifically discussed by the characters Mike and Lou. While McQueen starred in many other excellent crime movies, like The Getaway and Papillon, Bullitt and The Thomas Crown Affair are arguably his most memorable. The references to Bullitt go beyond just mentioning the title; most notably, Mike drives a green 1968 Camaro that strongly resembles Bullitt’s iconic green 1968 Mustang.

The film nicely resolves the conflict between Mike and Lou through a car. Early on, Lou’s car is made fun of, but he ultimately receives Mike’s beautiful classic car. This is a fitting parallel to the iconic detective Bullitt, who drives a classic Mustang – Lou, also a police officer, gets to enjoy the same type of vehicle. The film also includes a subtler nod to the film Crime 101.

Lou references the film The Thomas Crown Affair, which has a similar style, rhythm, and look to Crime 101. Beyond that, the film connects to Crime 101 in a way that makes the character Thomas Crown more like Mike Davis than Steve Bullitt.

Director Bart Layton clearly loves classic heist movies, and that energy shines through in Crime 101. While some viewers might not fully grasp how this approach enhances the film, fans of the genre will appreciate the added depth it brings to the story and style. Crime 101 really feels like a contemporary take on the thrilling heist films made by directors like McQueen.

Chris Hemsworth Continues to Show His Range With Crime 101

Chris Hemsworth, the Australian actor famous for his role as Thor, has been actively expanding his skills and taking on more diverse roles. He possesses the classic qualities of a leading movie star, and audiences are starting to recognize his ability to powerfully carry a film. Almost immediately after appearing in Avengers: Endgame, he began searching for roles that would allow him to showcase a different side of his talent.

Chris Hemsworth has been proving his versatility as an actor in recent years with films like Extraction and its sequel, which many consider to be underappreciated action movies. Taking on villainous roles was a smart move, and now he’s tackling his most complex character yet in Crime 101. While his performance isn’t overly flashy, it showcases his potential for more dramatic roles.

Mike Davis is a compelling character driven by a strong personal code, which adds complexity and weight to his choices. Chris Hemsworth portrays him in a way that makes the audience question his motives and character. While more understated than some of Hemsworth’s other performances, this role allows for a similar level of emotional connection as his portrayal of Thor.

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2026-02-21 05:37