Crime 101: A High-Stakes California Heist Thriller

Amazon MGM Studios has unveiled the first official trailer for Crime 101, a California crime thriller set for theatrical release on February 13, 2026. Based on Don Winslow’s novella of the same name, the film promises a gripping tale of heists, deception, and moral dilemmas along the iconic 101 Freeway. Directed and written by Bart Layton, known for The Imposter and American Animals, the film blends thrilling action with psychological tension.

The story follows detective Lou Lubesnick, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, as he tracks a highly skilled jewel thief (Chris Hemsworth) who operates by the meticulous “Crime 101” rules—a perfect code for executing heists without getting caught. The thief plans the ultimate heist along California’s sun-bleached highways, but the line between hunter and hunted begins to blur, forcing everyone involved to confront the consequences of their choices.

As the plot unfolds, the thief crosses paths with a disillusioned insurance broker, played by Halle Berry, whose personal crossroads compel her to collaborate with him. Alongside Ruffalo’s relentless detective, this unlikely alliance heightens the tension, raising the stakes as the multimillion-dollar heist draws near. Supporting roles feature Chris Hemsworth, Barry Keoghan, Monica Barbaro, Corey Hawkins, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Nick Nolte, creating a star-studded ensemble.

Produced by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Derrin Schlesinger, Dimitri Doganis, Bart Layton, Shane Salerno, Chris Hemsworth, and Benjamin Grayson, the film combines sleek heist mechanics with morally complex storytelling, exploring obsession, ambition, and the costs of living on the wrong side of the law.

Set against the glittering yet gritty backdrop of Los Angeles, Crime 101 promises a tense, stylish, and suspenseful thriller for early 2026, blending smart twists, character-driven drama, and high-stakes action along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway.