6 Reasons Reviews For Crime 101 Are So Positive

Early reviews are incredibly positive for what’s shaping up to be the best crime movie of 2026. Director Bart Layton’s film, based on Don Winslow’s novella Crime 101, has earned near-perfect scores from critics. While it’s no longer at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, it still has a remarkably high rating for a thriller.

Crime 101 is a film about a jewel thief (Chris Hemsworth) who pulls off robberies along the 101 freeway in Los Angeles. His plans unexpectedly intersect with those of an insurance agent (Halle Berry) who is trying to turn her life around. Meanwhile, a determined detective (Mark Ruffalo) is hot on their trail, trying to prevent their next crime.

Despite initial online predictions of a typical crime story, this thriller boasts a fantastic cast and is now receiving rave reviews from critics. A closer look at those reviews shows several things people are consistently praising.

6. The Star-Studded Cast Is Excellent

Alongside Chris Hemsworth, Halle Berry, and Mark Ruffalo, the film Crime 101 features a strong supporting cast of acclaimed actors. Barry Keoghan, known for The Banshees of Inisherin, plays a significant role as a dangerous biker who clashes with Hemsworth’s character, Mike Davis. Veteran actor Nick Nolte, along with Monica Barbaro, Corey Hawkins, and Jennifer Jason Leigh, also appear in important roles.

Reviewers praise the dedication of the entire cast, but Chris Hemsworth, Halle Berry, and Mark Ruffalo deliver particularly strong performances. Owen Gleiberman from Variety highlighted Hemsworth’s performance as one of his best yet, and many also commended Ruffalo for his portrayal of a hardened detective who plays a key role in a compelling dynamic with Hemsworth.

5. The Characters Are Well-Written And Complex

I’ve been really impressed with the performances in Crime 101, and I think a big reason why is the depth of the characters. As George Simpson from the Daily Express put it, the show is so good because it combines exciting action with a fantastic script that gives us characters who aren’t simply good or bad – they’re really complicated and interesting people.

Because the story follows a jewel thief, it’s interesting to watch – we’re supposed to be on the side of the criminals. But Mark Ruffalo’s detective isn’t a perfect cop either, which allows both actors to create complex and compelling characters. Director Layton does a good job of adapting the original story, making us genuinely care about what happens to these people.

4. It Evokes Crime Heist Classics

Some critics pointed out that Crime 101 relies heavily on familiar crime movie themes seen in films like Collateral, Thief, and The Thomas Crown Affair. However, most reviewers believe this actually benefits the film. Edgar Ortega from Loud and Clear Reviews noted that while the movie uses a common formula, it’s a refreshing release in theaters for this type of genre film.

Many reviews have drawn comparisons to Michael Mann’s classic crime film, Heat, and that’s generally a positive sign. Fans of Heat will likely enjoy this new film, which clearly takes inspiration from it. And honestly, Heat is a great model for any modern crime thriller to follow.

3. There Is A Gritty Neo-Noir Feel To It

Critics often compare the movie to classic crime films, and that’s largely due to the director and team embracing a modern, noir-inspired style. Randy Myers from the San Jose Mercury News specifically praised cinematographer Erik Wilson, noting that he portrays Los Angeles as “sleek, sexy, and rough around the edges,” which adds to the film’s sense of restless energy.

The film’s gritty, imperfect quality extends to its characters, creating a unique style that should appeal to fans of classic 1940s and 50s black-and-white films. Critics agree this approach helps Crime 101 differentiate itself from most modern crime thrillers, which often focus on over-the-top action.

2. The Narrative Is A Well-Executed Slow Burn

Gregory Nussen, writing for Ebaster, praised Crime 101 for its refreshing approach to the crime genre. He explained that the movie stands out because it avoids the typical reliance on over-the-top action and obvious explanations. As Nussen put it, the film is ‘deliberately slow-paced and demonstrates that true suspense can be created without being overly dramatic.’

Some critics felt that Crime 101‘s two-hour-and-twenty-minute length was a little excessive, but the film’s deliberate pacing is actually one of its strengths. While it features exciting action sequences, like a fantastic car chase, the movie is mostly designed to build suspense gradually.

1. It’s An Entertaining Crime Thriller

Above all, Crime 101 is simply an enjoyable movie. A good crime thriller needs to keep viewers hooked and excited, and reviewers seem to think this film delivers that, particularly for fans of classic crime stories.

Collider’s Aidan Kelley acknowledged that the movie uses familiar elements from classic crime films, but ultimately called it “a thrilling and fun ride,” highlighting both its intimate character scenes and exciting action sequences. Crime 101 premiered in theaters on February 12th, and positive initial reviews suggest it may remain popular beyond the Valentine’s Day holiday.

2026-02-12 07:39