An individual behind the wheel of a vehicle approaches a diamond courier, brandishing a weapon and coercing the courier into the trunk before making a swift getaway amidst the blare of sirens and screeching pursuit. However, this individual’s role is not purely villainous, as depicted in the star-studded crime drama “Crime 101.” The film delves into the lives of three distinct characters: a diamond thief portrayed by Chris Hemsworth, a pressured insurance agent for jewelers played by Halle Berry, and a disillusioned cop embodied by Mark Ruffalo tasked with unraveling the intricate web of events.
Director Bart Layton, known for his prior works such as the acclaimed documentary “The Imposter” and the hybrid feature “American Animals,” infuses a deeper narrative into “Crime 101.” In an exclusive interview with CBC News, Layton sheds light on his filmmaking approach, the casting process of A-list actors, and the underlying social commentary woven into his heist-themed movies.
From The Imposter to American Animals to Crime 101, there seems to be a clear throughline in your work. Where did the interest in crime come from?
Layton emphasizes that his fascination lies not solely in crime itself but in exploring individuals who defy societal norms and the repercussions of their choices. Through films like “American Animals,” where privileged young men veer into criminal activities despite their advantageous backgrounds, Layton delves into the complexities of human decision-making and the allure of deviating from conventional paths.
Addressing the societal backdrop of “Crime 101,” Layton highlights the widening wealth gap prevalent in cities like Los Angeles and the UK. The film questions the extent of corruption beyond the immediate criminal acts, probing into the ethical dilemmas faced by characters entangled in a world of theft and deception.
For Layton, authenticity is paramount, drawing inspiration from real-life jewel thieves, fences, and law enforcement figures. By immersing himself in the narratives of those connected to the criminal realm, Layton infuses genuine details into his storytelling, enriching the cinematic experience.
Chris Hemsworth’s portrayal in the film reflects a character shaped by a tumultuous past, driven by a desire to shield himself from past traumas through material wealth. This thematic exploration of wealth inequality and class struggles aligns with the overarching narrative of Layton’s cinematic repertoire.
When it comes to casting Hemsworth, Layton acknowledges the actor’s departure from his usual roles, citing the depth and vulnerability Hemsworth brought to his character. Their collaboration involved integrating researched backstories of individuals involved in jewel thefts, adding layers of authenticity to Hemsworth’s performance.
What prompted the shift from documentaries to a heist film for your latest project?
Layton underscores the allure of heist films in structuring narratives that captivate audiences with unresolved questions and intricate character developments. This cinematic framework allows Layton to infuse deeper themes and social commentary while delivering the thrilling experience reminiscent of classic movie genres.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.