Margot Robbie's Bold Choice in 'The Wolf of Wall Street'

Margot Robbie has always been known for her fearless approach to acting, and her breakthrough role in Martin Scorsese's 2013 film The Wolf of Wall Street is a testament to that. In a recent episode of the Talking Pictures podcast, Robbie, 34, revealed how she made the daring decision to go full-frontal nude during a pivotal scene, asserting it was entirely her idea.

A Scene Steeped in Boldness

In the film, Robbie portrays Naomi Lapaglia, the ambitious wife of Jordan Belfort, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. While filming, director Martin Scorsese offered her a chance to cover up, suggesting she could wear a robe if she felt uncomfortable. Robbie firmly rejected this idea, emphasizing, "That is not what she would do in that scene. She would not put a robe on. The whole point is she's going to come out completely naked. That's the card she's playing right now."

This assertion highlights not just Robbie's commitment to her character but also her desire to challenge norms in Hollywood, where many actresses often shy away from such vulnerabilities.

Making a Lasting Impression

Robbie's decision was not solely about nudity; it was about authenticity and creating a lasting impact on the audience. As she explained, the scene's intention was to illustrate Naomi's confidence and control amidst the chaotic world surrounding her husband's financial discrepancies. Her determination to strip down signaled to the viewers the lengths to which Naomi would go and showcased Robbie's willingness to embrace the provocative nature of her role.

The Audition That Set the Tone

Interestingly, Robbie's path to embodying Naomi was fraught with self-doubt. During her final audition for the role, rather than opting for a traditional intimate moment, she decided to slap Leonardo DiCaprio, thinking it would make her stand out. Reflecting on this decision, she recalled, "I thought, I could kiss Leonardo DiCaprio right now, and that would be awesome... then I just walloped him in the face!" This spontaneity was not only amusing but evidently won over the director and the star themselves, setting a playful yet intense tone for her character.

Exploring the Emotional Depth

To better explore her character’s emotional landscape, Robbie utilized an unconventional technique—playing the Titanic soundtrack during emotional scenes. This interesting choice really helped her tap into the depths required for her role. She recalled, "I can even just hear the theme music of Titanic, and I’ll be bawling." Interestingly, during one of the filming sessions for “The Wolf of Wall Street,” she found herself listening to the song while observing DiCaprio and Kate Winslet nearby, connecting her own journey into the film with the legendary pair she admired.

Post-Wolf of Wall Street Career

Since The Wolf of Wall Street, Robbie's career has skyrocketed. She has been recognized with several Academy Award nominations, receiving nods for her performances in I, Tonya, Bombshell, and Barbie—which not only featured her acting but also her role as producer through her company, LuckyChap Entertainment. The company has garnered critical acclaim for producing films that challenge the status quo, including Promising Young Woman and upcoming adaptations of classic games like Monopoly.

Conclusion

Margot Robbie's brave choices in The Wolf of Wall Street have significantly defined her career and established her as a force in Hollywood. By refusing to compromise on her artistic integrity, she not only shifted her career trajectory but also brought a refreshing boldness to women in film. Her story is a reminder of how taking risks can pave the way for greater achievements, influencing the next generation of actresses to embrace their vulnerabilities on screen.