Margot Robbie has risen to become one of Hollywood’s most versatile and critically acclaimed actresses. Her beauty and talent have set her apart, but her commitment to challenging roles has truly defined her career. Robbie became a household name with her unforgettable portrayal of Harley Quinn in the DC Extended Universe. This role cemented her status as a fan favorite and showcased her ability to command the screen in major franchises.
Beyond comic book adaptations, Robbie has continually impressed critics and audiences alike with her performances in historical dramas, biopics, and indie films. Her roles have garnered numerous nominations, including Academy Award nods, proving that she’s not just a blockbuster star, but a force to be reckoned with in the world of cinema.
16. The Suicide Squad (2021)
Returning once more as Harley Quinn, Robbie delivered another scene-stealing performance in James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad. This time, her portrayal of Harley was more unhinged and delightfully unpredictable, offering fans a fresh take on the beloved character. Robbie’s comedic timing, combined with her ability to infuse Harley with genuine emotion, created some of the film’s most memorable moments. From her explosive fight sequences to her heartfelt and humorous interactions with the team, Robbie brought new layers to Harley’s personality. The film was a critical success, and Robbie’s performance was lauded for making Harley both chaotic and deeply relatable, further cementing her status as one of DC’s most iconic characters.
15. Dreamland (2019)
In the Depression-era drama Dreamland, Robbie played Allison Wells, an outlaw on the run who forms an unlikely bond with a young man. Robbie’s performance was both intense and vulnerable, as she portrayed a woman driven to desperate measures in a time of hardship. The film allowed her to explore a more grounded and gritty character, one who was far from glamorous but still captivating. Robbie’s ability to humanize a morally ambiguous character showed her dedication to playing roles that challenge audience perceptions. It’s a film that highlights her knack for intimate, character-driven storytelling.
14. Whiskey Tango Foxtrot (2016)
In Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, Robbie played Tanya Vanderpoel, a daring and confident war correspondent stationed in Afghanistan. Starring alongside Tina Fey, Robbie added a touch of glamour and resilience to her role, bringing depth to what could have been a one-dimensional character. Her chemistry with Fey brought humor and heart to the film, balancing the more serious moments with lighthearted camaraderie. Robbie’s performance helped elevate the movie, making her one of its standout features and proving her ability to thrive in dramedies as well as more serious films.
13. Terminal (2018)
Terminal was a stylish, neo-noir thriller that saw Robbie taking on the role of Annie, a femme fatale with a complex agenda. The film was a bold and visually striking project, with Robbie at the center of its mysterious and twisted plot. Her performance as Annie was dark, seductive, and layered, showing her ability to dominate a film with a character who is as enigmatic as she is dangerous. While the film itself received mixed reviews, Robbie’s performance stood out as a highlight, further solidifying her as a captivating presence in unconventional roles.
12. Peter Rabbit (2018)
In the family-friendly animated film Peter Rabbit, Robbie lent her voice to Flopsy Rabbit, one of the mischievous rabbit siblings. Her vocal performance added charm and personality to the beloved character, contributing to the film’s playful energy. Robbie’s ability to bring life to an animated character showcased her versatility and willingness to take on different types of projects, including those aimed at younger audiences. Peter Rabbit may not be as dramatic as some of her other roles, but it demonstrates Robbie’s fun, lighthearted side, further broadening her appeal.
11. Z for Zachariah (2015)
In the post-apocalyptic drama Z for Zachariah, Robbie played Ann Burden, one of the last survivors on Earth. The film is an intimate, character-driven piece, and Robbie’s performance anchored the emotional weight of the story. She conveyed the isolation, hope, and tension that comes with being caught between two men in a desolate world. Robbie’s nuanced performance showed her talent for subtle, introspective roles, proving that she can carry a film without the need for large-scale action or effects. It’s one of her more understated performances, but no less powerful.
10. The Legend of Tarzan (2016)
In The Legend of Tarzan, Robbie took on the role of Jane Clayton, a fierce and intelligent counterpart to Alexander Skarsgård’s Tarzan. Unlike previous depictions of Jane, Robbie’s version was more empowered, offering a modern take on the classic damsel-in-distress trope. She brought strength and resilience to the role, making Jane a more active participant in the story rather than just a love interest. Robbie’s ability to add depth to such a well-known character showed her desire to bring complexity to every role she undertakes, even in traditional adventure films.
9. Focus (2015)
In the stylish heist thriller Focus, Margot Robbie played Jess Barrett, a novice con artist who teams up with Will Smith’s seasoned criminal. The film showcased Robbie’s chemistry with Smith, as well as her ability to blend romance, comedy, and suspense effortlessly. As Jess, Robbie was magnetic, balancing her character’s cunning with a touch of vulnerability, keeping audiences guessing about her true motives. While Focus may not have been a critical darling, Robbie’s performance stood out, making her a key player in the film’s intrigue and charm.
8. Bombshell (2019)
In Bombshell, Robbie played Kayla Pospisil, a fictional composite character representing the young women caught in the toxic culture of Fox News during the Roger Ailes scandal. Robbie’s performance was both vulnerable and courageous, as she depicted the emotional toll of sexual harassment in the workplace. Her portrayal earned her another Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, with critics praising her ability to convey the silent agony of her character’s experience. The film highlighted Robbie’s gift for tackling real-world issues with sincerity, adding another layer to her impressive filmography.
7. Birds of Prey (2020)
Robbie reprised her role as Harley Quinn in Birds of Prey, a film that gave her character the spotlight and the freedom to shine. In this action-packed, feminist take on the DC universe, Robbie’s Harley was vibrant, chaotic, and unapologetically fierce. The film allowed her to explore Harley’s evolution from Joker’s sidekick to an independent antihero, giving audiences a deeper understanding of the character’s motivations. Robbie’s performance was electric, combining physical comedy, drama, and action with ease. This film cemented her status as one of the most dynamic actresses in modern action films.
6. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
As Sharon Tate in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Robbie delivered a graceful, understated performance that paid tribute to the late actress. Her portrayal was notable for its warmth and ethereal quality, standing out in a film filled with larger-than-life characters. Robbie’s ability to convey Tate’s innocence and the joy she found in life added an emotional layer to the film’s more somber themes. Though her screen time was limited, Robbie’s presence was felt throughout, with her performance adding an element of poignancy and reverence to the story. It’s a testament to her ability to leave a lasting impression with subtlety.
5. Babylon (2022)
In Babylon, Margot Robbie plays Nellie LaRoy, a wild, aspiring actress navigating the chaotic, hedonistic world of 1920s Hollywood. Her performance in this epic, directed by Damien Chazelle, is electric, embodying the spirit of a starlet on the rise during a time of excess and change in the film industry. Robbie brings intensity and raw emotion to the role, capturing Nellie’s ambition, desperation, and eventual downfall with a captivating blend of charisma and vulnerability. The film’s frenetic energy and sweeping scope give Robbie the chance to showcase her range, from comedic highs to tragic depths. Babylon reaffirms her talent for taking on daring roles that push the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
4. I, Tonya (2017)
In I, Tonya, Margot Robbie delivered one of her most powerful and transformative performances as the controversial figure skater Tonya Harding. Her portrayal of Harding earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, and rightly so—Robbie brought raw intensity and empathy to the role. She perfectly captured the emotional rollercoaster of Harding’s tumultuous life, blending dark humor with heartbreaking drama. This performance proved that Robbie could tackle challenging roles and deeply flawed characters with nuance and depth. It remains one of her finest moments on screen.
3. Suicide Squad (2016)
Margot Robbie’s debut as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad marked a turning point in her career, with her portrayal of the quirky, unhinged antihero becoming a pop culture phenomenon. With her infectious energy, wild charisma, and a perfect mix of vulnerability and chaos, Robbie breathed new life into the DC character. The film may have received mixed reviews, but Robbie’s Harley Quinn became a standout, spawning cosplays, fan art, and future spin-offs. Her ability to bring emotional complexity to such an eccentric character showcased her range as an actress. Robbie’s Harley became synonymous with the character itself, elevating her fame to new heights.
2. Barbie (2023)
In Barbie, Margot Robbie took on the titular role of the iconic doll in a vibrant and subversive film directed by Greta Gerwig. Robbie’s portrayal of Barbie was charming and deeply layered, as the film explored themes of identity, femininity, and societal expectations. Her performance balanced humor, heart, and existential reflection, transforming what could have been a simple character into a nuanced exploration of self-discovery. The film’s critical and commercial success was a testament to Robbie’s ability to bring depth to even the most unexpected roles. Barbie reinforced her star power and showcased her skill in leading a blockbuster while delivering a meaningful, socially relevant performance.
1. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Robbie’s breakthrough role as Naomi Lapaglia, the fiery wife of Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jordan Belfort, put her on the map. In The Wolf of Wall Street, she mesmerized audiences with her sharp wit, charm, and undeniable screen presence, holding her own against some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. The film catapulted her into the spotlight and proved she could tackle complex, high-energy characters. This performance also established her as a leading lady capable of balancing humor, sensuality, and emotional depth. It remains one of her most celebrated roles.
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