“I wasn’t able to hide behind a vocal quality or posture the way I could with Thor and these larger characters,” said Chris Hemsworth, reflecting on his latest role in the crime thriller Crime 101. Released on April 2, 2026, on Prime Video, the film has quickly ascended to become the Number 1 streaming title, surpassing previous favorites like Mercy.
Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, Crime 101 features Hemsworth as Mike Davis, a character described as nonviolent and shy. This portrayal marks a significant departure from the larger-than-life heroes he is known for, such as Thor. Hemsworth’s comments highlight the challenges he faced in embodying a character that required a more nuanced performance.
The film is adapted from a novella by Don Winslow and is directed by Bart Layton. In discussing the film’s themes, Layton noted, “I wanted to reflect all of the social strata.” This ambition is evident in the film’s plot, which revolves around a jewel thief and a detective engaged in a tense cat-and-mouse chase, showcasing various facets of society.
Alongside Hemsworth, the film boasts a star-studded cast that includes Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, and Barry Keoghan. Hemsworth praised Ruffalo, stating, “There’s such an honesty and a deep integrity to Mark and an inquisitive nature, and there’s a huge amount of compassion and empathy, and that’s what you want in a police officer.” This camaraderie among the cast adds depth to the film, enhancing its emotional resonance.
Interestingly, Crime 101 marks Alec Baldwin’s first major role since the Rust incident, adding a layer of significance to his performance. The film’s reception has been overwhelmingly positive, achieving a Certified Fresh rating of 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on feedback from 186 critics. This rating underscores the film’s quality and appeal, particularly in a competitive streaming landscape.
Filming took place in both Los Angeles and London, capturing the essence of the urban environment that serves as a critical element in the storytelling. The film’s success is reflected not only in its ratings but also in its reach, as it has become the Number 1 title on Prime Video in 29 countries.
As audiences continue to engage with Crime 101, Hemsworth is set to reprise his iconic role as Thor in Avengers: Doomsday later in 2026, indicating that while he explores new characters, he remains a staple of the superhero genre. Meanwhile, Ruffalo will return as Bruce Banner in Spider-Man: Brand New Day in July 2026, promising fans more of the beloved characters they have come to cherish.