Margot Robbie has spent over ten years shaping a remarkable career since departing Australia for Hollywood, captivating audiences with her versatile talent. Known for diving deeply into each character through rigorous preparation—whether mastering ice skating, performing stunts, or researching complex personalities—she has left a significant mark with her authentic portrayals in films ranging from biographical dramas to intense thrillers. Highlighting Margot Robbie best performances reveals not only her acting prowess but also her ability to elevate stories that resonate widely.
Robbie’s résumé includes three Oscar nominations, including a 2024 nod as a producer for the blockbuster Barbie, alongside acclaimed acting roles. Even in films where her screen time is limited, such as Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, she makes a lasting impression. The following examination covers the eleven standout roles that have defined her career, showcasing both her range and commitment.
Portraying a Fugitive in “Dreamland” (2019)
In the lesser-known yet compelling film Dreamland, Margot Robbie delivers a striking performance as Allison Wells, a 1930s Texas bank robber on the run. The story unfolds with a Bonnie and Clyde-inspired setup, unusual here because it is the woman who leads the crime spree. Robbie’s Allison forms a partnership with teenager Eugene Evans, played by Finn Cole, who falls in love with her, creating a potent blend of vulnerability and defiance. Their chemistry fuels a believable narrative arc that climaxes in a poignant scene where Allison pleads with Eugene not to leave their shared dreams behind.
“I didn’t make you into anything you didn’t already want to be,”
Allison tells Eugene, encapsulating the complexity of her influence on him and the unintended consequences of their connection.
Although Dreamland premiered at the 2019 Tribeca Film Festival and later saw a limited theatrical release during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, it did not reach a wide audience. Robbie’s nuanced work and Lyle Vincent’s atmospheric cinematography mark it as a film worthy of greater recognition.
A Raw Exploration of Isolation in “Z for Zachariah” (2015)
Margot Robbie’s early dramatic role in Z for Zachariah diverges from her usual glamorous parts, focusing instead on a stripped-down, emotionally charged character named Ann. After a nuclear catastrophe, Ann believes she might be the Earth‘s last survivor, living in solitude on her family farm. The story, adapted from Robert C. O’Brien’s novel and directed by Craig Zobel, revolves around a tense love triangle with two men, Caleb (Chris Pine) and Loomis (Chiwetel Ejiofor), as they all grapple with survival and companionship.
Robbie’s portrayal captures the raw human desire for connection amid profound loneliness and loss, highlighting Ann’s internal conflicts and vulnerabilities. Her portrayal is compelling in its simplicity, relying heavily on emotional expression rather than spectacle to drive the narrative.
Bringing Complexity to Queen Elizabeth I in “Mary Queen of Scots” (2018)
In the historical drama Mary Queen of Scots, Robbie steps into the role of Queen Elizabeth I, presenting a nuanced ruler caught between strength and insecurity. The film centers on Elizabeth’s rivalling relationship with Mary Stuart, masterfully portrayed by Saoirse Ronan. Their first on-screen confrontation toward the film’s climax showcases Robbie’s ability to convey vulnerability beneath regal authority.
Robbie’s Elizabeth is a non-traditional monarch, navigating her reign without a spouse or heirs, burdened by the physical and political challenges of her time. Her dedication extended off-screen, spending over three hours daily in hair and makeup to authentically embody the Queen’s iconic look, including the smallpox scars disguised by white powder. Her performance, though not extensive in screen time, leaves a memorable impression for its emotional depth.
A Provocative Turn as Catherine Earnshaw in “Wuthering Heights” (2026)
In one of her most recent roles, Margot Robbie stars as Catherine Earnshaw in a daring and unorthodox adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel. Released on Galentine’s Day, this version differs from the traditional by exploring themes of obsession and social class tension with unapologetic candidness. Directed by Emerald Fennell, the project reunites the director and star following their previous collaboration on Saltburn.
Robbie’s portrayal of Catherine is raw and intense, tackling the character’s toxic and passionate traits head-on. The role prompted some controversy due to Robbie’s blonde hair and age contrast with the novel’s brunette, teenage Catherine, leading Robbie to publicly address the backlash. Despite this, her gripping performance reveals vulnerability and emotional turmoil, marking one of her boldest career choices—especially as it followed her first childbirth and filming while pregnant on another project.
Her chemistry with Jacob Elordi’s Heathcliff highlights the destructive yet magnetic nature of their connection, engaging viewers in Catherine’s heartbreak and conflicting desires. Robbie’s representation of Catherine’s darker side suggests a readiness for more villainous roles in the future, expanding her artistic range beyond familiar territory.
Capturing Sharon Tate’s Essence in “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” (2019)
Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Sharon Tate in Quentin Tarantino’s 2019 film, despite the character’s limited screen time, is captivating and radiant. The role fulfilled Robbie’s dream of working with Tarantino, earned after she proactively reached out to the director following I, Tonya. Tate is presented not as a victim of the Manson Family murders but as a vibrant, joyful presence whose personality lights up every scene.
Robbie immersed herself in Tate’s world by consulting the actress’s family and studying her films, helping her embody Tate’s charisma authentically. While some critics questioned the brevity of Robbie’s lines, Tarantino firmly dismissed these concerns, highlighting how Robbie’s portrayal alone could provoke discussion in a film headlined by legendary actors Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio.
I reject your hypothesis,
Tarantino responded to inquiries over Robbie’s limited dialogue, underscoring her impact regardless of screen time.
Confronting Harassment on Screen in “Bombshell” (2019)
In Jay Roach’s Bombshell, one of the early major dramas emerging from the #MeToo movement, Robbie plays Kayla Pospisil, a fictional associate producer inspired by real women who faced harassment at Fox News under Roger Ailes. While her co-stars portray actual figures such as Megyn Kelly and Gretchen Carlson, Robbie’s role embodies the collective experience of many women in a high-pressure, hostile work environment.
Robbie’s performance includes emotionally intense sequences, such as the unsettling elevator silence shared with her colleagues and her character’s traumatic encounter with Ailes, which ends in humiliation and fear. One powerful moment features Kayla breaking down in tears after confiding in her friend Jess Carr (Kate McKinnon). The raw honesty Robbie brings to these scenes earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress, recognizing her ability to portray difficult emotions with vulnerability and strength.
Portraying a Fallen Star in “Babylon” (2022)
Although Damien Chazelle’s Babylon was met with criticism for its lengthy runtime and opulent style, Margot Robbie’s depiction of Nellie LaRoy, a rising actress caught in the chaotic transition from silent films to talkies, stands out. Surrounded by an ensemble cast including Brad Pitt and Tobey Maguire, Robbie injects energy and depth into her character’s glamorous yet troubled life.
Nellie’s flamboyant lifestyle and career struggles culminate in a breakdown during a notorious party scene. Robbie’s performance includes memorable sequences of high-octane dancing and a dramatic snake bite, as well as her ability to deliver tears authentically—skills honed during her earlier work on the Australian soap Neighbours. Robbie has expressed hope that Babylon’s reputation might improve over time, which would align aptly with the film’s meta commentary on shifting fame and audience tastes.
Shaping a Complex Woman in “Barbie” (2023)
Margot Robbie’s dual role as lead actress and producer in Barbie brought her widespread acclaim and box office success. The film transcends the potentially superficial source material—a Mattel doll—by using Robbie’s Barbie to explore themes of female empowerment, societal expectations, and self-awareness. As Barbie ventures from her perfect world into reality, Robbie balances humor and complexity adeptly, engaging audiences with a fresh perspective.
The actress underwent intense physical training and dance rehearsals to prepare for the role’s demands, particularly the grand party scene. The film shattered records, grossing over $1.4 billion globally and becoming Warner Bros.’ highest-grossing production. Despite receiving eight Oscar nominations, including no recognition for Robbie’s performance or Greta Gerwig’s direction, the movie’s cultural impact remains substantial. Fans and critics alike eagerly await a sequel to continue the story.
Launching Her Career with “The Wolf of Wall Street” (2013)
Margot Robbie’s breakout American role came with Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street. While previously notable in Australia’s Neighbours, this film introduced her as Naomi Belfort, the alluring and complex wife of stockbroker Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio). Naomi’s role, though initially described as mere arm candy in the script, evolved into a character rich with emotional depth and sharp wit.
Robbie’s audition famously included slapping DiCaprio, a bold choice that secured her casting. She delivered several memorable lines that have since entered pop culture, including confrontational phrases aimed at DiCaprio’s character regarding infidelity. In the film’s powerful closing scenes, Naomi confronts Jordan about divorce and fears for their child’s welfare, revealing Robbie’s dramatic range. Her nuanced performance cemented her status as a formidable presence in Hollywood.
“Who? Who? What are you, a fucking owl?”
Naomi’s pointed suspicion captures Robbie’s ability to inject humor and suspicion simultaneously.
Defining Harley Quinn in “The Suicide Squad” (2021)
Margot Robbie’s association with Harley Quinn is iconic, spanning multiple films that showcase different facets of the character. Her portrayal reaches its peak in 2021’s The Suicide Squad, where she fully embraces Harley’s unpredictable, high-energy nature independent of The Joker. This iteration highlights growth and autonomy, with Robbie performing stunts she choreographed herself, demonstrating her deep involvement.
Her performance is a standout in the film, blending humor and chaos seamlessly. James Gunn’s direction fosters a fresh take on the DC Universe, and Robbie’s portrayal remains central to Harley’s enduring appeal. Fans and critics view her work as definitive, anticipating more from her in this role in future projects.
Transforming into Tonya Harding in “I, Tonya” (2017)
Playing and producing I, Tonya was a major milestone for Margot Robbie, revealing her capability to lead complex stories. She transformed into Tonya Harding, the controversial figure skater known for her athletic talent and involvement in a scandal that shocked the sports world. Robbie devoted months to training on ice to authentically replicate Harding’s signature moves, reflecting her dedication.
The film delves into Harding’s turbulent life, marked by allegations of complicity in the assault on rival Nancy Kerrigan and personal struggles with abuse from family and partners. Robbie’s emotional range shines in quiet moments, especially a scene where she silently confronts her pain in the mirror, a piece she improvised herself. This role earned her first Oscar nomination, signaling her arrival as a leading dramatic actress.
The scene of Robbie looking at herself crying in the mirror is magic.
This moment encapsulates the raw emotional power Robbie brings to her roles. — Allison Janney, co-star and Oscar winner
Margot Robbie continues to rise as a versatile and committed actress, choosing roles that challenge her and broaden her artistic boundaries. From historical figures to complex fictional characters, her dedication to authenticity and emotional truth cements her legacy as one of her generation’s most compelling talents in Hollywood.
