Crime 101: A Dramatic Shift for Hemsworth and Ruffalo

Chris Hemsworth and Mark Ruffalo, familiar faces from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, have teamed up for a thrilling new project: *Crime 101*. This isn’t a superhero spectacle; it’s a tense, psychological thriller that pits the two actors against each other in a captivating game of cat and mouse.

At the film’s premiere, Hemsworth shared with the BBC that their long-standing friendship brought a unique dynamic to the set. “The two of us get together and we’re like a couple of naughty kids at school that need to be wrangled to be focused,” he joked. This playful energy, however, was balanced by the demands of a darker, more dramatic role.

From Heroes to Heists: A New Territory

In *Crime 101*, Hemsworth portrays a cunning jewel thief planning one last audacious heist, while Ruffalo embodies a relentless detective determined to bring him to justice. While known for their comedic timing, this film represents a significant departure for both actors.

“We have a familiarity in the comedic space,” Hemsworth explained. “This is a dramatic film so it was quite an adjustment and discomfort at first.” Ruffalo echoed this sentiment, praising Hemsworth’s transformation. “I got to see him do something I’ve been dying to see him do… he was totally transformed,” Ruffalo stated. He added that he had been eager to collaborate with Hemsworth on a project outside of the Marvel universe for years, and *Crime 101* provided the perfect opportunity.

Halle Berry Joins the Chase

Adding another layer of intrigue to the cast is Halle Berry, who plays an insurance broker caught in the web of the heist. Berry’s character embodies a powerful message of resilience, demonstrating that “women of a certain age are not indispensable and resists that by standing up for herself.” This resonates with Berry’s own experiences, as she actively works to challenge ageism in Hollywood and is building a company to support women navigating perimenopause. She is set to play President Joanna Duncan, a gender-swapped version of the lead role from the political thriller novel, The President is Missing, by Bill Clinton.

Authenticity Through Action

*Crime 101* delivers the classic thrills of a crime caper, complete with exhilarating car chases and stunts. Hemsworth relished the physicality of the role, noting that the stunts were “intense for all the right reasons.” He even joked that his rural upbringing, spent “bashing about in old cars,” provided valuable preparation. The filmmakers prioritized authenticity, minimizing the use of stunt doubles and green screen to create a more visceral experience for both the actors and the audience. “It is really us experiencing those emotions so there’s an added layer of grit and authenticity,” Hemsworth explained.

Beyond the Screen: Hemsworth’s Limitless Pursuit

Outside of acting, Hemsworth continues to push his boundaries, as seen in his documentary series, *Limitless*. The show explores ways to enhance longevity and well-being, with Hemsworth tackling challenges like learning to play the drums – a skill he briefly showcased alongside Ed Sheeran. While the drumming experience was intense, and perhaps a little traumatic (“I get PTSD when I see a drum set”), it underscored his commitment to personal growth and exploration.

Crime 101 promises a thrilling ride for audiences, showcasing the dramatic range of two beloved actors and delivering a suspenseful story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

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