Chris Hemsworth calls Mark Ruffalo cinematic frenemy in Crime 101

Actor discusses evolving on-screen rivalry with Ruffalo as jewel thief and detective in new thriller Crime 101

Chris Hemsworth says his long-running collaboration with Mark Ruffalo has evolved into what he describes as a “cinematic frenemy” dynamic, a theme that continues in their latest film, Crime 101.

The new thriller, arriving in theaters this week, features an ensemble cast that includes Hemsworth, Ruffalo, Barry Keoghan, Halle Berry, Monica Barbaro, Corey Hawkins, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Nick Nolte. The film marks another shared project for Hemsworth and Ruffalo, who previously appeared together in four Avengers films and Thor: Ragnarok as Marvel allies.

In Crime 101, however, the actors portray adversaries. Hemsworth plays a jewel thief pursued by a determined detective portrayed by Ruffalo, shifting their on-screen relationship from superhero teammates to opponents.

Speaking to ComicBook.com ahead of the film’s release, Hemsworth reflected on working with Ruffalo again and how their professional relationship has developed over time. He said that although their characters come from “different worlds” and opposing sides, there is a sense of mutual respect between them.

“We have a deep friendship. There’s a deep mutual respect and compassion for one another,” Hemsworth told ComicBook.com. He added that both actors bring vulnerability and a willingness to experiment to their performances, which he believes translates naturally on screen.

Hemsworth also noted that while their characters do not share many scenes together in the film, it was important to convey a sense of trust and organic connection between them.

Co-star Halle Berry echoed that sentiment, saying that despite limited shared screen time, their characters appear connected. “Watching the movie, I feel like you’re together because you’re connected by some invisible string,” Berry said.

Crime 101 is adapted from Don Winslow’s novella of the same name and is written and directed by Bart Layton. The film opens in theaters Friday.