Marvel’s Thor is trading his hammer for a heist in the most anticipated crime thriller of 2026. In an exclusive conversation, Chris Hemsworth reveals why Crime 101 feels like stepping into a time machine back to the golden era of suspense cinema—and his first meeting with visionary director Bart Layton left him absolutely starstruck.

Crime 101: Fast Facts

Element	Details
Release Date	February 13, 2026
Genre	Crime Thriller
Director	Bart Layton
Lead Cast	Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo
Supporting Cast	Barry Keoghan, Monica Barbaro, Halle Berry
Studio	Amazon MGM Studios
Setting	Los Angeles 101 Highway

Hemsworth’s Nostalgic Connection

“I read the script and loved it because it felt like a real throwback to ’90s thrillers,” Hemsworth shared exclusively. The 42-year-old actor found himself drawn to the film’s vintage appeal—something increasingly rare in today’s CGI-dominated landscape. “There was a sort of nostalgia to the story that you don’t see too much these days.”

The Australian superstar wasn’t just impressed by the screenplay. His admiration for director Bart Layton’s previous work, particularly American Animals, sealed the deal. “I was a fan of Bart’s work and loved American Animals. It was a very character-driven drama with elaborate intersecting storylines,” he explained. Their first creative meeting confirmed his instincts: “He also has a brilliant vision for the film.”

The Plot: Highway Robbery Meets High Stakes

Hemsworth plays Mike Davis, a legendary thief whose signature MO involves targeting wealthy marks along the notorious LA 101 highway. After years of evading capture, Davis plans one final score—but this time, insurance broker Sharon Colvin (played by an undisclosed actress) has the same target in her crosshairs.

Enter Mark Ruffalo as Lou Lubesnick, the determined investigator who believes he’s finally cracked Davis’s pattern. The cat-and-mouse game intensifies as all three converge on a priceless prize, setting up what promises to be an edge-of-your-seat thriller.

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Marvel Reunion: Hemsworth Meets Ruffalo Again

The on-screen reunion of Hemsworth and Ruffalo—who previously shared the MCU stage as Thor and Hulk—adds extra excitement to Crime 101. Their proven chemistry from multiple Marvel outings translates perfectly to this gritty, grounded thriller where superpowers are replaced by street smarts and strategic thinking.