“Focus” came in first at the box office this weekend proving that people are still paying money to watch Will Smith talk despite the bomb of “After Earth” in 2013.
Smith plays the decorated conman Nicky, who falls in love with the conwoman-in-training, Jess, played by Margot Robbie (Wolf of Wallstreet).
After they very abruptly fall in love, they steal millions of dollars and merchandise targeting not only millionaires but the average Joe, with a seemingly endless team of people.
This movie really sets the romantic mood.
But of course, there has to be a breakup. Without a breakup, there can be no unplanned meeting in the future to throw a wrench in the works.
Luckily, the breakup is accounted for and so the story can unfold hectically and mysteriously. Surprise, there is also an aloof father.
The chemistry between Smith and Robbie is very natural. The two seem to be a dynamically witty couple. However, the characters Nicky and Jess are soulmates in this film based primarily on the fact that they’re both very successful con artists. Maybe being a very successful shoplifter is a notable trait to have in dating profiles.
Adrian Martinez (“The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” “Gotham”) plays the computer hacking genius and laughably off-the-wall friend, Farhad. With him the audience isn’t only laughing at Smith’s perfectly executed sarcasm, but also at Martinez’s unexpectedly crude jokes.
For those who do not plan on seeing the film solely for Smith, there are no nude or semi-nude scenes of Robbie. Although there is a brief scene (that is jump-cut ferociously) of her in a bikini.
This film really just happens. Frankly, it’s a “Will Smith” movie. His movies make money and audiences would love to go watch him read out of the phone book.
Even “After Earth” came in third at the box office in 2013 and that is without a doubt his biggest blockbuster flop.
Honestly, this film is more romantic than anything else. Overall it’s safer to say it’s a good movie rather than a bad one. From a “Will Smith” movie, audiences should expect no less.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Watch the trailer here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxCRgtdAuBo