Chris Hemsworth launched his 2026 film slate with the release of Crime 101, an R-rated thriller that maintains the actor’s impressive streak. The movie, which hit theaters on February 13, has drawn strong audience approval, reinforcing Hemsworth’s consistent box office presence over recent years.
Strong Audience Reception Boosts Crime 101’s Reputation
Currently, Crime 101 holds an 85% rating on the Popcornmeter by audience members, marking it as Hemsworth’s fifth consecutive film in four years to earn solid viewer praise. The film is among three Hemsworth projects since 2022 where the audience score surpasses the critics’ score, a trend seen previously with Thor: Love and Thunder, which holds a 76% audience rating compared to a 63% critics score.
In contrast, Hemsworth’s 2022 movie Spiderhead received a poor reception, earning only a 30% audience rating and a 39% critics score on the Popcornmeter. Crime 101’s positive audience reaction highlights a notable rebound for the actor.
Box Office Challenges Amid Competition
Despite favorable audience scores, Crime 101 faced a challenging opening weekend, earning $17.7 million domestically. The thriller opened alongside Wuthering Heights, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, which also premiered on February 13 and added significant competition at the box office.
Critical Response and Filmmaking Background
Crime 101 is based on the novel by Don Winslow and was written and directed by Bart Layton. In a review from ScreenRant, Gregory Nussen noted that the film
“works more often than it doesn’t, and if nothing else it is extremely exciting to have an original crime film in the vein of New Hollywood’s best.”
This commentary reflects the film’s intense and original approach within the crime thriller genre.
Notable Cast and Upcoming Projects for Hemsworth and Co-Stars
The film features an ensemble cast including Halle Berry, Barry Keoghan, Monica Barbaro, Corey Hawkins, and Mark Ruffalo, the latter of whom returns in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) later in 2026. Hemsworth will reprise his role as Thor in Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for release on December 18, while Ruffalo will appear in Spider-Man: Brand New Year launching on July 31.
Within Crime 101, Hemsworth portrays Mike Davis, and Ruffalo plays Detective Lou Lubesnick.
Implications and Anticipated Developments
While Crime 101’s opening numbers suggest a tougher market reception, its critical and audience appreciation may provide the foundation for lasting interest. The film’s success also upholds Chris Hemsworth’s trajectory in taking on diverse and challenging roles beyond his superhero fame.
With a full year ahead before his next major MCU release, Hemsworth’s R-rated thriller momentum adds tension and anticipation for both fans and industry observers, as the summer and holiday film seasons approach with promising projects from Hemsworth and his co-stars.
