Before Suicide Squad: Will Smith & Margot Robbie's 2015 Box Office Flop

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Post on Apr 29, 2025

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Before Suicide Squad: Will Smith & Margot Robbie's 2015 Box Office Flop – Focus on "Focus"

Will Smith and Margot Robbie. Two names synonymous with box office success. But before they teamed up to electrify audiences as Deadshot and Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad, the dynamic duo starred in a film that significantly underperformed: Focus. Released in 2015, Focus offered a stylish, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, blend of romantic caper and con artistry. This article delves into the reasons behind Focus's box office disappointment, despite boasting a star-studded cast and promising premise.

A Glittering Cast, a Diminutive Return:

The film's failure to ignite the box office isn't attributable to a lack of star power. Smith and Robbie were, and remain, highly bankable actors. Adding to the ensemble were seasoned performers like Gerald McRaney and BD Wong, further enhancing the film's potential appeal. Yet, Focus grossed a relatively modest $159 million worldwide against a $50 million budget – a far cry from the blockbuster numbers typically associated with films featuring actors of this caliber.

Marketing Misfires and Genre Confusion:

While the trailers hinted at a sophisticated and thrilling con, the film's marketing campaign may have inadvertently contributed to its underperformance. The tone oscillated between romantic comedy and crime thriller, potentially confusing audiences and failing to clearly define the target demographic. This lack of a clear marketing message may have led to a smaller-than-expected audience turnout.

Critical Reception and Audience Disconnect:

Reviews for Focus were mixed. While praised for its slick visuals, stylish direction, and the chemistry between Smith and Robbie, critics often pointed to a predictable plot and underdeveloped characters as significant weaknesses. This lukewarm critical response, coupled with a sense of audience disconnect from the central narrative, likely played a role in the film's box office underachievement.

The Legacy of "Focus": A Stepping Stone to Success?

Despite its box office stumble, Focus shouldn't be viewed as a complete failure. It served as a significant stepping stone for both Smith and Robbie. The film showcased their on-screen chemistry, which would later become a cornerstone of their success in Suicide Squad. The experience gained from Focus likely played a role in their future performances and box office triumphs.

Key Takeaways:

• Star Power Isn't Always Enough: Even A-list actors can't guarantee box office success without a compelling script and effective marketing.
• Genre Confusion Can Hurt: A clear and consistent marketing message is crucial for attracting the intended audience.
• Critical Reception Matters: While not always the sole determinant of success, negative or mixed reviews can impact audience interest.
• Learning from Setbacks: Even seemingly unsuccessful projects can provide valuable experience and contribute to future success.

Focus serves as a cautionary tale in Hollywood, highlighting the complex interplay of factors that contribute to a film's box office performance. While it may not be remembered as a cinematic masterpiece, it certainly holds a unique place in the careers of Will Smith and Margot Robbie, paving the way for their future collaborations and blockbuster successes.