CRIME 101

Crime 101 (2026)

Directed by: Bart Layton

This isn’t the kind of film that keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. Action scenes take a backseat. Rather than relying on physical movement, it’s the mind that remains constantly on the move—urging you to question why things happen.

It’s easy to make a judgment based on isolated events, but this film invites you to see things from a different perspective by turning the world upside down.

The story breaks away from simple notions of right and wrong, good or bad, and leads you into the complexity that lies in between. It may take some time to get its point across, perhaps even longer than expected.

Eventually, the dots are connected, presenting a bigger picture. The editing and transitions weave scenes together with precision, from food to clothing to setting.

Chris Hemsworth shows vulnerability without ever losing his strength. Barry Keoghan makes it effortless to direct hate and spite toward him. Mark Ruffalo naturally earns your loyalty and support. Halle Berry communicates so much through her facial expressions alone.

Crime 101 goes beyond the crimes committed on the 101 Freeway and plays out like an introductory course on how society operates.

The film opens with a relaxed mood, preparing you for the chaos ahead. It patiently builds its characters and their situations, allowing you to become invested. Their decisions may seem unpredictable, yet once you get to know them, those choices feel justified.

What makes a crime truly a crime?

Reasons. Reflections. Decisions.

We all have our own.

Let’s not be constrained by the rules.

𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐌𝐄 𝟏𝟎𝟏

Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Barry Keoghan, Halle Berry

Screenplay by: Bart Layton (based on the novella by Don Winslow)

Presented by: Working Title Films, 91 Films, Amazon MGM Studios

Release Date: February 18, 2026 in Philippine cinemas nationwide

A Movie Review by: Goldwin Reviews