Crime 101: The Director’s Mount Rushmore of Crime Films
Crime 101 is poised to become a landmark in the crime film genre. Based on Don Winslow’s novella, this 2026 release promises a gripping heist thriller, perfect for a Valentine’s Day weekend watch. With a stellar cast including Chris Hemsworth, Halle Berry, Mark Ruffalo, and Barry Keoghan, the film is already generating significant buzz. However, according to writer-director Bart Layton, the film’s true strength lies in its nostalgic appeal.
Layton, a devoted fan of neo-noir, action thrillers, and crime comedies, shared his personal ‘Mount Rushmore’ of crime movies in an exclusive interview. Here are the four films that have profoundly influenced his work and the genre as a whole:
1. Heat (1995)
“If you’re shooting in Los Angeles, it’s hard not to look beyond Heat, right?” Layton remarked. “For most people, I think it’s the pinnacle of the entire genre. It’s endlessly brilliant and rewatchable.”
Heat, a nearly three-hour crime drama directed by Michael Mann, has left an indelible mark on entertainment and pop culture. It influenced works like Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy and the Grand Theft Auto video game franchise. The film even inspired real-life crimes, including the infamous 1997 North Hollywood shootout.
The film follows the intense cat-and-mouse game between LAPD Lieutenant Vincent Hanna (Al Pacino) and professional thief Neil McCauley (Robert De Niro) after a robbery gone wrong. It’s a masterclass in filmmaking and acting.
Where to stream: Hulu and Plex (US); Netflix and Disney+ (UK and Australia)
2. Bullitt (1968)
“We wanted to bring this style of film back to the big screen,” Layton explained, referencing Bullitt. This ’60s classic, starring Steve McQueen, centers on San Francisco police detective Frank Bullitt’s investigation into a witness murder.
Bullitt is renowned for its groundbreaking car chase sequence, which set the standard for action filmmaking. Time magazine described it as “the one, the first, the grandaddy, the chase on the top of almost every list.” With Crime 101 featuring its own vehicle chases, Bullitt’s influence is undeniable.
Where to stream: Hoopla (US); rent or buy (UK); HBO Max (Australia)
3. The Sting (1973)
“The Sting was a really formative movie for me,” Layton shared. Starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, this caper follows two professional grifters as they con a mob boss out of a substantial sum.
Based on David Maurer’s 1940 book The Big Con, the film marked the second collaboration between director George Roy Hill and the celebrated actors Newman and Redford, following their success with Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
Where to stream: Fubo, Plex, and MGM+ (US); Mubi and MGM+ (UK); MGM+ (Australia)
4. Thief (1981)
“I think most people would immediately point to any of Michael Mann’s stuff,” Layton added. However, it’s Thief, Mann’s second directorial effort, that secures the final spot on his list. Starring James Caan, the film portrays Frank, a jewel thief attempting to leave his criminal life behind.
Layton draws parallels between Caan’s character and James Davis, the protagonist of Crime 101, played by Hemsworth. For those eager to understand the themes and narrative direction of Layton’s latest film, Thief is a must-watch.
Where to stream: MGM+ (add-on to Prime Video)
Crime 101 is set to release on February 13th, promising a thrilling cinematic experience steeped in the rich tradition of the crime genre.
