Halle Berry on Crime 101, And Embracing Her Age On Screen

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Some actors are stars. Halle Berry is a legend.

Halle Berry has played a diverse range of characters in comedies, horror films, dramas, science fiction, and fantasy. She made history in 2001 as the first Black woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress, for her role in Monster’s Ball. Remarkably, she’s one of the very few performers of any race to win both an Oscar and a Razzie Award in the same year—and actually accept both awards in person, for Monster’s Ball and Catwoman.

In a world that often prioritizes youth, 59-year-old Halle Berry stands out by fully embracing her experience as a long-time actress. Her age is actually central to her role in the new thriller, directed and written by Bart Layton. Alongside stars like Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, and Barry Keoghan, Berry plays Sharon Colvin, an insurance broker who teams up with a skilled thief for a major heist when her company starts to underestimate her value. Berry drew on her own life experiences for the part, bringing both determination and the frustration of striving for success later in life to her portrayal.

Berry recently chatted with Ebaster about the show Crime 101 and how the role resonated with her personally. They discussed what inspired the Los Angeles-based crime story, how Berry connected with her character, and her impact on both superhero and music culture.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Seeing the trailer for this new movie instantly brought Swordfish to mind – I remember loving how that film put you in the position of someone helping with a huge crime, but not necessarily being the mastermind. This one takes a different path, but it got me thinking… as a film buff, I often wonder if actors ever draw on past roles to help them get into character for something new. Do they use those old performances as a kind of starting point?

I don’t usually draw inspiration from past roles. I treat each character as completely new – a different person in a different situation with different relationships. It honestly hadn’t occurred to me until you mentioned it, but I rarely think about how previous characters might influence my current work.

They end up not being alike at all, but this reminded me of it.

I understand what you’re saying – you’re totally right. But once I finish a film, I consider it in the past.

Bart really infuses this film with a vibrant and exciting energy – it’s impossible not to notice. When you first started working on this project, did you have a clear vision of the kind of impact you hoped to achieve with the movie?

I really wanted to make a movie for adults, and that’s exactly what this is. It’s a thrilling, visually stunning crime story with plenty of action – you know I love those kinds of films! But it’s not just action; it has real emotional depth and characters you genuinely connect with. It felt like the perfect combination. When I first met the director, we talked about films like Heat and Collateral – those classic, mature thrillers. He comes from a documentary background, which means he’s great at bringing a sense of realism to his work. I thought he could use that skill to create something fresh and engaging, something audiences haven’t seen in a while and would truly enjoy.

When you think about Sharon’s performance, was it more difficult for her to portray the criminal aspects of the role, or the struggles of a woman navigating the challenges of climbing the corporate ladder?

For me, the most impactful part of the story was the experience of being a woman in middle management – realizing you’re qualified and experienced enough to advance, but feeling like time is running out. It resonated deeply because I’m currently facing something similar in my own life. When personal experiences connect with a role, it goes beyond just acting; it becomes deeply personal. This character and this movie felt very personal to me because of that connection.

So, I hear you shared personal stories with Bart for Sharon’s speech. It must have been incredibly emotional and freeing to share those experiences on screen – how did it feel?

I loved that scene! We filmed it near the end of production, and I was so excited for my character to have that breakthrough – to recognize her own strength and reclaim it. I think women often struggle with that – with standing up for themselves. We frequently worry about consequences like losing our jobs, being rejected, or upsetting others, and there are countless reasons why we stay silent. So, playing a woman who found the courage to speak her mind and finally not care what others thought, especially when she understood what was really going on, was incredibly freeing. I think a lot of women will relate to that character and feel empowered by her.

You’re right to bring that up – this film really challenges the common, and frankly disappointing, idea in Hollywood that older women aren’t interesting or don’t have fulfilling lives. Are you now looking for more roles like this one? And are those kinds of opportunities even available?

I’m actively looking for roles that feel authentic to my age and experience. As I get older, the kinds of characters I’m drawn to naturally change. While not every role will be exactly like this one, I want to portray believable characters and stories. I can only bring my own perspective to any part I play. I’m really excited about the opportunities that come with this stage of my life and career. These roles aren’t always readily available, which is why I started my own production company, Halle Holly. This allows me to create those opportunities, not just for myself, but for other women as well. I feel fortunate to still be working in this industry, to be able to contribute creatively, and to help bring important stories to life – stories where women are well-represented.

As a film lover, I’m always curious about who’s actively working to give actresses better parts. I keep wondering – are people in Hollywood finally starting to offer more interesting and challenging roles to women as they get older? It feels like it’s been a long time coming, and I’m eager to see if there’s even a little bit of progress being made.

I think people are starting to listen, but we can’t let up. We need to keep pushing and advocating for what’s right. As a Black woman, I’ve always had to work incredibly hard for everything I’ve achieved. Even winning an Oscar, which was a huge moment for me, didn’t immediately open doors. I didn’t suddenly receive a flood of great job offers. It’s been over 20 years, and honestly, that award didn’t change things as much as I hoped. I still had to fight for opportunities. Thankfully, I’m used to fighting – it’s been a part of my life. And that’s why, even at 60, I’m still here, still working, and still willing to fight for what I believe in. I don’t enjoy having to fight, but I am grateful for the strength to do so.

Are there directorial projects that you are actively developing right now?

I’ve been developing a project for a while now, and it’s a significant undertaking. Directing my first film consumed nearly three years of my life – it required a lot of effort and preparation. Hopefully, the next one won’t take quite as long. It’s a different experience than simply working behind the camera, where you complete your tasks and move on. I need to find the time to dedicate around two years to this single project, and I plan to when the moment is right. I’ve been collaborating with writers, refining the project and getting everything ready.

I understand you enjoy action films. While you’re not in the new Avengers movie, I’m wondering how rewarding it’s been to witness the enthusiastic response to the X-Men characters from the Fox films now being part of the Marvel Universe again?

I’ve really cherished my time playing Storm. She’s a character who means a lot to me, and I feel lucky to have been able to explore the X-Men universe – the themes of being different and feeling like an outsider – through her. I’m proud that my kids can watch those movies because they offer important messages, especially as they’re growing up. I’m sad I won’t be involved in the next film, but I’m open to returning in the future; I’d do it without hesitation.

Throughout your career, you’ve portrayed a wide range of complex Black characters. Do you now feel comfortable enough as an actor to accept any role, without being concerned about how others might react or criticize your choices?

You know, I’ve never really let what critics or other people think dictate my choices as an actress. I’ve always felt empowered to play any role that grabs me. Sometimes, though, a character really jumps out because of the message it sends. Like my role in Crime 101 – this character has a really important story, especially for women going through menopause, which is something I’m very passionate about and even have a business dedicated to. But honestly, that’s not always the driving force. Usually, it’s about finding a character I connect with, something that feels challenging and new. I think it’s crucial for artists to be free to follow their instincts. Trying to carry the weight of social issues or an entire community can be creatively stifling, you know? We need that freedom to make choices that genuinely move us.

You’re a well-known actress and a big hip-hop fan – many consider you the most referenced actress in the genre. Is there one song in particular that mentions you that you especially enjoy?

People ask me this constantly, but I’m not going to choose a favorite. Each tribute has been a wonderful acknowledgment of my work and how people see me, and I’m genuinely surprised and touched every time a new one appears. I truly love them all and I’m incredibly flattered by the recognition. That’s why I can’t possibly pick just one.

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2026-02-11 19:03