By Geno McGahee
Will Smith has had a long career of successful films. Following his instincts, the actor has selected the projects that have hit hard and have propelled him even farther. In 2015, FOCUS was released and it became a hit, bringing in 159 million on a 50 million dollar budget. The film featured a romance between Smith and co-star, Margot Robbie, and featured some gambling, including Sports betting on the Superbowl, and heists that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. The betting scene is very intense since he bets the whole haul of what they got from stealing on the weekend – and leaves Jess (Robbie) in horror. The trigger is a kind sitting with them in the same box, who is constantly entering higher bets and Nicky (Smith) does the same.
Nicky (Smith) is a conman that knows his game well and he works with a good crew, making a lot of money and living well. Jess (Robbie) enters the picture and wants in. Sexy and ambitious, Nicky takes her under his wing and starts showing her the ropes, while keeping his feeling in check. Working as the group’s intern, Jess proves to be the best team member ever and the lifestyle agrees with her.
Despite his vow to not fall for Jess, Nicky develops strong feelings for her. The cool and calm thief now must go against some bad guys to achieve the relationship he desires. Building off of the magic of OCEAN’S 11, FOCUS brings incredibly cinematography and direction. Smith is known for his productions with great style and presentation like BAD BOYS, MEN IN BLACK and SUICIDE SQUAD. This film has the same stamp and edgy feel.
After three years of separation, Nicky rediscovers Jess and her situation. She’s grown as a femme fatal and now he must be on his toes and on his game. There are plenty of shifts and twists and turns in FOCUS. It keeps the view guessing as it quickly moves through the fast-paced scenes to the conclusion of the film.
Despite the film being considered a thriller, the movie rides the line of thriller, romantic comedy and action film. There is something for everyone and Smith is able to bring a sophistication and grit to the role that really worked, while Margot Robbie burns up the screen with her sexy performance.
FOCUS is a great film that showcases Smith and Robbie, using great cinematography, story-telling, and clever writing. It was an edgy thriller with a romantic comedy mixed in.
