Chris Hemsworth Stars in Crime 101, a New Streaming Hit

“I wasn’t able to hide behind a vocal quality or posture the way I could with Thor and these larger characters,” said Chris Hemsworth, reflecting on his role in the new crime thriller Crime 101. The film, which premiered on Prime Video on April 2, 2026, has quickly become a sensation, surpassing previous streaming titles to become the Number 1 film on the platform.

Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, Crime 101 features Hemsworth as Mike Davis, a character he describes as nonviolent and shy. The film is adapted from a novella by Don Winslow and showcases various recognizable landmarks throughout the city. Alongside Hemsworth, the film boasts a talented cast including Mark Ruffalo, Halle Berry, and Barry Keoghan.

The film’s plot revolves around a jewel thief and a detective engaged in a gripping cat-and-mouse chase, a narrative that has resonated with audiences. “There’s such an honesty and a deep integrity to Mark and an inquisitive nature, and there’s a huge amount of compassion and empathy, and that’s what you want in a police officer,” Hemsworth noted, highlighting the depth of character portrayed by Ruffalo.

Upon its release, Crime 101 received a Certified Fresh rating of 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on reviews from 186 critics. This positive reception has contributed to its rapid rise in popularity, with the film currently holding the Number 1 spot in 29 countries on Prime Video, easily surpassing the previous leader, Mercy, which only managed a 25% rating on the same platform.

Directed by Bart Layton, Crime 101 marks a significant return for Alec Baldwin, whose role in the film is his first major acting project since the Rust incident. The film’s diverse settings, filmed in both Los Angeles and London, add to its visual appeal and narrative depth.

As Hemsworth continues to explore different facets of his acting abilities, he expressed a desire to reflect the complexities of modern society through his characters. “I wanted to reflect all of the social strata,” said Layton, emphasizing the film’s ambition to portray a multifaceted view of crime and justice.

Looking ahead, Hemsworth is set to reprise his iconic role as Thor in Avengers: Doomsday later in 2026, while Mark Ruffalo will return as Bruce Banner in Spider-Man: Brand New Day in July 2026. These upcoming projects indicate a busy year for both actors, as they continue to captivate audiences with their performances.