Highway Heist: Chris Hemsworth’s Crime 101 brings back 90s crime-thriller cool

Amazon MGM Studios’ crime thriller Crime 101 , directed by Bart Layton , is building momentum after a string of preview screenings and red-carpet premieres in major cities.

Chris Hemsworth leads the film as a slippery jewel thief who uses Los Angeles’ famed 101 freeway as his hunting ground, drawing the attention of a determined detective played by Mark Ruffalo . The ensemble cast also features Halle Berry and Barry Keoghan , strengthening the film’s dramatic core.

Based on Don Winslow’s novella , Crime 101 channels the spirit of classic 1990s crime cinema with a gritty visual style and tense storytelling. Early audience reactions have praised its polished action sequences and strong performances , with many comparing its tone to Michael Mann’s Heat and Collateral . Viewers have also pointed to Hemsworth’s shift away from blockbuster superhero roles, applauding his portrayal of a morally conflicted antihero .

Although reception has largely been favorable , a small number of preview viewers expressed reservations, including one who labeled it a rare misfire . Despite this, overall buzz suggests the film resonates strongly with fans of old-school crime thrillers .

The movie’s promotional tour launched with a world premiere in London on January 28, 2026, attended by Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Halle Berry. It was followed by a Los Angeles premiere on February 9, 2026 , and a New York City premiere that took place shortly before the film’s wide rollout. Additional advance and fan screenings have been organized in select cities ahead of the film’s global theatrical release on February 13, 2026 .

Marketing efforts are intensifying as the release date approaches, highlighted by a large-scale IMAX rollout timed with its opening weekend.

Further fueling anticipation, Amazon MGM Studios has partnered with esports organization 100 Thieves for a special fan event taking place tomorrow. The activation will offer exclusive merchandise , including limited-edition T-shirts , along with complimentary screening tickets for the first 101 fans in line , underscoring the film’s freeway-inspired theme.

Blending sleek action with a retro crime-film sensibility , Crime 101 aims to revive the appeal of classic thrillers for contemporary audiences. With its high-profile cast and growing word-of-mouth, the film is shaping up to be one of February’s most closely watched releases.