Chris Hemsworth stars as a jewel thief who operates along the 101 freeway in Southern California in the new thriller Crime 101, which premieres globally in theaters this Friday. The film, directed by Bart Layton, features a tense pursuit with a determined detective played by Mark Ruffalo, setting the stage for a gripping cat-and-mouse story.
Unique Collaboration Beyond the Marvel Universe
Hemsworth and Ruffalo, longtime collaborators and original members of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Avengers, have worked together many times before. However, Hemsworth emphasized this project was unlike anything they had done previously. He shared with ABC Audio how refreshing it was to explore new ground with Ruffalo.
“It’s super refreshing. We’ve talked about doing other stuff together for a long time. And I sent him the script, and he immediately flipped for it and said, ‘This is brilliant,’”
Hemsworth said. And off we went.
Balancing Familiar Energy with a New Tone
While Crime 101 differs greatly in tone from their superhero roles, Hemsworth acknowledges that some of their iconic Marvel energy initially carried over on set. Their excitement reflected the spirit of their characters Thor and Hulk, until director Bart Layton encouraged a shift in approach to fit the thriller’s different atmosphere.
“We brought some of our Thor and Hulk energy initially of just the excitement,”
Hemsworth explained.
“And then Bart [Layton] was like, ‘Whoa, different energy, different film.’”
Stepping Into New Roles with Familiar Faces
For Hemsworth, playing opposite Ruffalo in such contrasting roles was both a wonderful and challenging experience. He compared acting alongside a close friend to performing in front of family, where the familiarity heightens the pressure to break new ground.
“It was quite lovely to step into completely different shoes, but quite uncomfortable, too, because it’s like acting in front of a family member, you know?”
Hemsworth reflected.
“They know your tricks, and now you’re doing something very different. And so it was quite unsettling, but as it should have been for the characters, too.”
Enjoying the Creative Journey Together
The camaraderie between Hemsworth and Ruffalo was evident throughout the film’s production. Hemsworth expressed great admiration for Ruffalo, highlighting the personal connection that enriched their collaboration in Crime 101.
“He’s one of my favorite people,”
Hemsworth said.
Anticipating Audience Reception and Impact
With Crime 101 set to hit theaters worldwide, this film represents an exciting new chapter for both actors, showcasing their versatility beyond superhero roles. Hemsworth’s involvement brings a fresh dynamic to the crime thriller genre, and audiences can look forward to seeing the duo’s talented interplay in a suspenseful context different from their previous work. This collaboration under Bart Layton’s direction promises a unique cinematic experience that highlights both star power and evolving craft.
