Forgotten Thriller: Will Smith And Margot Robbie's 56% Rotten Film

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Post on Apr 29, 2025

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Forgotten Thriller: Will Smith and Margot Robbie's "Focus" – A Box Office Success with a Critical Miss?

Will Smith and Margot Robbie, two of Hollywood's biggest stars, teamed up in 2015 for the con artist thriller, Focus. While the film raked in a respectable $159 million at the box office, its critical reception was far less impressive, currently holding a measly 56% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This begs the question: why has this star-studded thriller, filled with twists and turns, faded into relative obscurity?

A Slick Con, a Flawed Execution?

Focus follows Nicky Spurgeon (Will Smith), a seasoned con artist who takes a young, ambitious grifter, Jess Barrett (Margot Robbie), under his wing. Their relationship blossoms amidst a series of elaborate scams, adding a layer of romantic tension to the already intricate plot. The film boasts stylish visuals, a fast-paced narrative, and some genuinely clever con sequences. However, critics largely panned the film for its predictable plot twists and underdeveloped characters. Many felt that the chemistry between Smith and Robbie, while undeniable, couldn't save the film from its narrative shortcomings.

The Allure of the Con Artist Genre and its Pitfalls:

The con artist genre has a long and storied history in cinema, boasting classics like The Sting and Catch Me If You Can. These films often rely on intricate plots, surprising twists, and charismatic leads to keep audiences engaged. Focus, however, arguably fell short in delivering the satisfying surprises that the genre typically offers. The film’s reliance on familiar tropes, coupled with a somewhat unsatisfying resolution, left many viewers feeling underwhelmed.

Will Smith and Margot Robbie's Undeniable Star Power:

Despite the film's critical shortcomings, the undeniable star power of Will Smith and Margot Robbie ensured Focus's box office success. Both actors delivered strong performances, showcasing their charisma and on-screen chemistry. However, even their talents couldn't completely overcome the film's narrative flaws. This highlights the complex relationship between critical acclaim and commercial success in Hollywood.

Why Focus is a Forgotten Thriller:

Several factors contribute to Focus's relatively forgotten status:

• Overshadowed by other releases: 2015 was a big year for cinema, with several high-profile releases potentially overshadowing Focus.
• Mixed critical reception: The film's less-than-stellar reviews may have discouraged audiences from seeking it out.
• Streaming availability: While available on various streaming platforms, its lack of consistent presence in “must-watch” lists may have contributed to its fading from memory.
• Predictable Plot: The film's plot, while stylishly executed, ultimately lacked the originality and surprising twists to leave a lasting impression.

A Case Study in Hollywood's Complex Landscape:

Focus serves as a fascinating case study in the complexities of Hollywood filmmaking. While a commercially successful film with two major stars, its critical failure and subsequent fading from the public consciousness highlight the importance of a strong script and unique storytelling, even with A-list talent attached. The film reminds us that box office success doesn't always equate to lasting cinematic impact. Ultimately, Focus remains a stylish but ultimately forgettable thriller, a reminder that even the best actors can't always salvage a flawed script.