In a gripping scene, a thief ambushes a jewel courier, forcing him into the trunk at gunpoint before fleeing amidst the blare of sirens and the screech of pursuit. However, the lines between good and bad blur in the star-studded crime thriller “Crime 101”, where the narrative weaves together a diamond thief (portrayed by Chris Hemsworth), a stressed insurance agent for jewelers (played by Halle Berry), and a disillusioned cop (depicted by Mark Ruffalo) tasked with unraveling the complex web of events.

Director Bart Layton, known for his previous acclaimed works like “The Imposter” and “American Animals”, sheds light on the underlying themes in his latest film. In an interview with CBC News, Layton discusses his interest in exploring individuals who defy societal norms and the repercussions of their choices.

The film delves into wealth inequality and class struggles, particularly in a city like Los Angeles, where economic disparities are stark. Through meticulous research and interactions with real people involved in criminal activities, Layton infuses authenticity into the characters and narrative of “Crime 101”. The characters, including Chris Hemsworth’s, are shaped by past experiences and motivations that drive their actions.

Chris Hemsworth’s portrayal in the film as a character with a troubled past seeking security through wealth accumulation showcases a departure from his usual roles, a choice that intrigued Layton. The depth of character development stemmed from a collaborative effort between Layton and Hemsworth, drawing inspiration from real-life stories of individuals embroiled in criminal activities.

Layton’s transition from documentaries to feature films like “Crime 101” allows him to blend entertainment with thought-provoking themes. The heist genre provides a platform to engage audiences with suspenseful narratives while subtly introducing deeper ideas and character explorations, enriching the cinematic experience.