When fans and critics discuss Margot Robbie’s rise to Hollywood stardom, ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ is almost always the first film mentioned. Released in 2013, Martin Scorsese’s biographical black comedy introduced Robbie to global audiences as Naomi Lapaglia, a role that earned her international acclaim and a reputation for fearless acting. Yet, as the conversation around her career evolves, new voices are challenging the idea that ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ was her definitive breakthrough. Recent buzz on social media and streaming platforms highlights a different film—2015’s ‘Focus’—as a more compelling showcase for Robbie’s talent, especially as it gains renewed attention on Netflix this year.
The Wolf of Wall Street: A Launchpad for Robbie’s Career
Robbie’s performance in ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ was undeniably electric. At just 23, she held her own opposite Leonardo DiCaprio, Jonah Hill, and a cast of seasoned actors. Her portrayal of Naomi Lapaglia was bold, nuanced, and unforgettable, earning her accolades and nominations for breakthrough performance awards. The film’s massive box office success—nearly $400 million worldwide—and its status as Scorsese’s highest-grossing film cemented Robbie’s place in Hollywood. She became a household name almost overnight, with critics praising her as a standout in a film filled with powerhouse performances.
But while ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ gave Robbie a global platform, some argue it was the role that launched her, not the one that truly showcased her range. The film’s focus on excess, crime, and larger-than-life characters sometimes overshadowed the depth Robbie brought to her role. Still, her willingness to improvise and her on-screen chemistry with DiCaprio remain highlights of her early career.
Why ‘Focus’ Is Being Recognized as a Better Showcase
Fast forward to 2015, and Robbie’s star continued to rise with ‘Focus,’ a slick crime caper co-starring Will Smith. In this film, she played Jess Barrett, a fledgling con artist who becomes entangled with a seasoned grifter. ‘Focus’ gave Robbie far more screen time and narrative weight, allowing her to demonstrate her versatility and charisma. The film was a box office hit, raking in triple its $50 million budget, and helped solidify Robbie’s reputation as a leading lady.
A specific scene in ‘Focus’ has been singled out by fans and critics as proof of Robbie’s star power. In the film’s climax, her character deceives both her co-star and the audience, revealing a layered, unpredictable performance. Robbie’s ability to shift between vulnerability and cunning in a single moment captivated viewers and showcased her range in a way that ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ did not always allow.
Recent social media discussions, including trending posts on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, have reignited interest in ‘Focus.’ Many users argue that while ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ made Robbie famous, ‘Focus’ proved she could carry a major film and deliver a performance that was both subtle and commanding. As the film becomes widely available on Netflix, new audiences are discovering Robbie’s dynamic work in ‘Focus’ for the first time.
Key Point Summary
- ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ (2013): Launched Margot Robbie to global fame, with a standout performance as Naomi Lapaglia.
- ‘Focus’ (2015): Gave Robbie more narrative agency and showcased her range as Jess Barrett.
- Current Buzz: ‘Focus’ is trending on Netflix, with fans and critics debating which film truly showcased Robbie’s talent.
Margot Robbie’s Evolving Legacy
Robbie’s journey from Australian soap operas to Hollywood blockbusters is a testament to her talent and ambition. While ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ remains a defining moment in her career, the renewed focus on ‘Focus’ highlights how her skills as a leading actress have only grown stronger. With each new project, Robbie continues to challenge herself and surprise audiences.
Her filmography now includes a diverse range of roles, from Harley Quinn in the DC Extended Universe to Sharon Tate in ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ and the iconic Barbie. Yet, the conversation around her breakout moment is shifting, with more fans recognizing the complexity and depth she brought to ‘Focus.’
Why You Should Revisit Robbie’s Early Work
If you only know Margot Robbie from ‘The Wolf of Wall Street,’ now is the perfect time to explore her other early films. ‘Focus’ offers a different perspective on her abilities, proving that she was never just a scene-stealer—she was always a star in her own right. As ‘Focus’ trends on Netflix, join the conversation and see why so many are calling it a better showcase for Robbie’s talent.