Crime 101.~|~|RtGvcP1PzD
In an engaging exploration of character and crime, director Bart Layton introduces his latest film, Crime 101, a heist thriller featuring Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Halle Berry. The movie offers a fresh perspective on the genre, focusing on nuanced characters caught in the web of their ambitions and societal pressures.
Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles and the iconic 101 freeway, the film follows Mike, played by Hemsworth, a meticulous jewel thief who leaves no trace of his crimes. His disciplined approach, characterized by a strict code and the absence of violence, is disrupted when he draws the attention of a determined detective, Lou (Ruffalo). As Mike plans his next job, he recruits Sharon, an undervalued insurance executive portrayed by Berry, making the trio outsiders navigating a world of crime and law enforcement.
Layton, who adapted the screenplay from a novella by Don Winslow, aims to present characters that diverge from traditional Hollywood archetypes. “It’s not like Chris’s character is a kind of James Bond type who’s flawless and invincible. He’s got problems,” Layton explained, emphasizing the film’s commitment to realism.
This project marks Layton’s transition from documentary filmmaking to a fully narrative feature. His previous works, including The Imposter and American Animals, reflected a blend of documentary and narrative styles, setting a solid foundation for Crime 101. “I was sh*tting my pans, quite frankly,” Layton recalled, acknowledging the challenges of moving into a new genre while striving for authenticity.
To enrich the characters’ backstories, Layton conducted extensive research, even communicating with a real jewel thief to understand the intricacies of the criminal world. He also consulted former LAPD officers to inform Ruffalo’s portrayal of Lou. This attention to detail is evident throughout the film, as Layton sought to create a realistic depiction of crime in Los Angeles.
Filming on actual Los Angeles streets instead of using green screens added authenticity to the car chases. Layton noted the logistical challenges of shooting in the city, stating, “Not that many people are shooting on the streets in LA, and they haven’t for a while.” He believed that capturing the city landscape authentically was essential to the film’s narrative.
Los Angeles serves as more than just a backdrop; it intricately shapes the characters’ identities and motivations. Layton reflects on how the city influences aspirations and failures, stating, “This is a town which tells you if you want to be somebody, you better have the money, the apartment by the beach.” This commentary on the disparity between the affluent and those struggling is woven into the narrative, showcasing the complexities of life in the city.
Crime 101 does not shy away from highlighting issues of poverty and homelessness, elements that are often overlooked in cinematic portrayals of Los Angeles. Layton aims for the film to stimulate thought without being overtly didactic. “It’s your job as a filmmaker to smuggle in the stuff that maybe leaves you thinking a little more deeply after the movie,” he said.
The film promises not only to deliver thrilling heist sequences but also to engage audiences with its rich character development and social commentary. In an industry often dominated by spectacle, Layton’s vision for Crime 101 emerges as a refreshing reminder of the potential for depth in modern cinema.
As audiences anticipate its release, Crime 101 positions itself as a compelling narrative that respects its viewers’ intelligence, offering a mature take on the heist genre while exploring broader themes of success, failure, and the human condition.
