Halle Berry revealed she has “never felt more seen” as she discussed the darker realities of Hollywood during the promotion of her latest project, Crime 101, starring alongside Chris Hemsworth. The 59-year-old actress and the 42-year-old star united for this crime thriller, which also features Barry Keogh and Mark Ruffalo.
The pair appeared on this week’s episode of The Graham Norton Show ahead of the film’s release, where Berry candidly spoke about her experiences. The film explores complex characters and themes, highlighting the career-defining work from both actors.
Berry Reflects on Her Role and Its Personal Resonance
Halle Berry described her character in Crime 101 as a powerful representation for women in middle age, emphasizing the voice and presence her role brings to this often-overlooked demographic. Speaking to Irish host Graham Norton, Berry explained,
“She stands up for all women in middle life. She has a voice. I think that has been a long time coming.”
She added that many women who are
“down the path of life like I am will feel very happy to be seen,”
underscoring the significance of visibility and representation in the industry.
A Glimpse Into the Set Experience and Industry Reality
The working environment on Crime 101 left a profound impression on Berry, who has over three decades of experience in the film industry. She praised the production as a positive contrast to the horror stories often heard about film sets. According to Berry,
“When you’ve been doing this for over 30 years and you say it is the all-time best, that’s something.”
She continued,
“You hear about the horror stories that go on in the industry, but not at all here. I have never felt more seen, protected and stood up for as I did on this movie.”
Chris Hemsworth on the Film’s Style and Emotional Depth
Chris Hemsworth described Crime 101 as “sleek and sexy,” highlighting its homage to classic heist films from the 1970s through the 1990s while bringing a modern edge. He praised the screenplay as one of the best he had encountered in years, emphasizing the movie’s
“complex characters and a deep level of emotion.”
“It is a throwback to the 70s, 80s and 90s heist movies that we all love, with a contemporary feel,”
Hemsworth said.
“There are complex characters and a deep level of emotion, and it’s entertaining, sleek, sexy, and visually pretty stunning.”
Reflecting on a Historic Oscar Moment and Industry Recognition
Berry also opened up about her historic Academy Award win in 2002, where she became the first woman of color to win Best Actress, beating actresses such as Nicole Kidman, Judi Dench, Renée Zellweger, and Sissy Spacek. She called the moment “an out of body experience,” confessing she was unprepared and shocked by her victory.
Berry recalled,
“That night I had an out of body experience. I didn’t think I would win so didn’t write a speech and I was in utter shock and disbelief. It was only an hour later that it sunk in, and I couldn’t stop telling people, I won an Oscar!”
Additional Guests on The Graham Norton Show
On the same episode, Berry and Hemsworth joined Canadian actress Rachel McAdams and comedian John Bishop. McAdams humorously discussed the lasting animosity toward her iconic Mean Girls character Regina George, saying,
“I didn’t know how hated she would be and for how long. The first time I saw the film with an audience I was with my best friend. Everyone cheered when Regina was hit by a bus, but my friend stood up and screamed, Nooooo!”
John Bishop reflected on his autobiographical film, Is This Thing On?, describing the project as both “really weird and strange” given its personal nature. He revealed,
“I wanted to be part of the writing process, but I was too close to the story, so I had to step away. I’m so glad I did. There was a big portion of trust involved, but the end result is brilliant. It really is a lovely film.”
Despite his involvement, Bishop admitted he never appeared in the film, joking,
“I don’t think a film by Bradley Cooper is going to be made better by me being in it.”
Anticipation Builds for Crime 101’s Release
Crime 101 is set to arrive on screens soon, with its high-profile cast and thematic depth generating excitement. Berry’s emotional connection to her role and Hemsworth’s enthusiasm for the film’s style suggest it will offer a fresh take on crime thrillers, blending nostalgia and innovation. Their candid discussion about the production environment underscores ongoing conversations about respect, safety, and inclusivity in the film industry.
The episode featuring the cast of Crime 101 airs on BBC One and is available on iPlayer Friday, January 30th at 10:40 p.m.
