Corey Hawkins is set to join Halle Berry in Bart Layton’s upcoming thriller Crime 101 for Amazon MGM Studios, alongside a powerhouse cast that includes Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Barry Keoghan, and Monica Barbaro.
While plot details on the film are unavaiable, the movie is based on Don Winslow’s suspenseful short story that will take us along the Pacific Coast Highway, where a string of elaborate jewel heists stirs fears of a Colombian cartel’s presence. But Detective Lou Lubesnick sees it differently. He believes the heists are the work of a single, master thief, who meticulously follows a personal code he calls “Crime 101.” With this thief gearing up for a final big score, the story unfolds into a gripping showdown that tests every bit of Lubesnick’s resolve and instinct.
While character details remain tightly under wraps, Layton—known for films like American Animals and The Imposter—is directing the project from his own script, aiming for a theatrical release. The film has powerhouse producers, including Working Title’s Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner, The Story Factory’s Shane Salerno, and RAW’s Dimitri Doganis and Layton himself. Chris Hemsworth and Ben Grayson of Wild State will also produce, with Joely Fether from RAW on board as executive producer.
For Hawkins, an Emmy and two-time Tony Award nominee who rose to fame with his role as Dr. Dre in Straight Outta Compton, this thriller adds to an impressive slate. He recently wrapped up filming The Man in My Basement with Willem Dafoe and Anna Diop and will star in the anticipated The Piano Lesson, alongside Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington. The Piano Lesson, directed by Malcolm Washington, will debut in select theaters on november 8 before hitting Netflix on november 22.
With such a talented cast and Layton’s expert hand guiding the story, Crime 101 is shaping up to be an intense thriller you won’t want to miss. Keep an eye out for more updates on what’s bound to be a standout addition to crime cinema.