Bart Layton’s “Crime 101” hit theaters on February 13th and is doing fairly well considering that this tale seems to have already been told before; a misunderstood thief being tracked by a burned-out cop. I went into this film without high expectations, even though the trailer was captivating due to both its striking cinematography and star-studded cast.
One plus I will give this movie off the bat is its great acting. Each actor is perfectly cast for their role. Barry Keoghan gives audiences a mesh of self-centered and unhinged in his role as an arrogant and sociopathic robber (though I do assume he’s playing parts of himself), and Chris Hemsworth delivers a role audiences have never seen him in. Watchers are accustomed to Hemsworth as a confident, cocky, and capable hero. Yet this character in “Crime 101” is much more complex and vulnerable than that. Of course, Mark Ruffalo gives us his usual tired detective role. Although he’s used to this dynamic, it seems a bit played out in this film and I’d love for him to get back to some more fun, “13 Going on 30” type roles. After reminding us she still acts, Halle Berry gave an impressive performance as an insurance broker looking for the big break in her career (hint, it involves something shiny and stolen).
As it stands, there is nothing incredibly striking about the plot of “Crime 101.” Although I will say it is not a predictable movie as there are a few surprises, and it did keep me guessing throughout its multiple interweaving plotlines. The film begins with simultaneous narratives playing out, and the movie keeps that fascination moving throughout the two-hour runtime. This film was adapted from a 2020 novella by author Don Winslow; I cannot speak on the film’s accuracy to Winslow’s book.
I am thankful that some crime films still achieve intensity, violence, and entertainment with minimal blood and gore, that was refreshing. However, “Crime 101” still does deserve its R rating for excessive language.
While watching, I pondered what it is about crime entertainment that’s so fascinating. The adrenaline? The car chases? The rich people? Whether you enjoy watching crime play out flawlessly or not, excellent cinematography and stellar acting can hook someone quickly. This movie is experiencing some trouble after being released on the same weekend as Emerald Fennell’s “Wuthering Heights,” which is currently crushing at the box office. Though “Crime 101” may not be making as much money, it is favored by reviews, currently sitting at 83% Rotten Tomatoes, with “Wuthering Heights” at 59%. This is most likely due to the controversial nature of “Wuthering Heights.” Sex or crime… such a tough decision, I suggest the latter! So, the question is, do you have a craving for popcorn, $12.50 in your pocket, and a fascination with crime? If so, “Crime 101” is for you! In theaters now.
