Margot Robbie has solidified her position as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and impactful actresses, transitioning from Australian soap opera star to global icon and three-time Academy Award nominee. Her journey, spanning just over a decade since her arrival in the United States, has been marked by an unwavering commitment to character immersion, a strategic approach to role selection, and a burgeoning career as a prolific producer. This comprehensive ranking delves into Margot Robbie’s best performances, highlighting the depth and range that have captivated audiences and critics alike, from her unforgettable breakthrough in The Wolf of Wall Street to her transformative turns as Tonya Harding and the cultural phenomenon of Barbie.
Robbie’s ascent in Hollywood is not merely a tale of natural talent but also of relentless dedication. Known for shunning traditional "method acting," she instead employs extensive preparation for each role. This often involves rigorous physical training, such as learning to ice skate for I, Tonya, performing her own intricate stunts, and engaging in aerial work. Equally crucial is her deep dive into character psychology, conducting thorough research to understand the motivations and inner worlds of both real-life figures like Tonya Harding and Sharon Tate, and complex fictional characters such as Nellie LaRoy and Kayla Pospisil. This meticulous approach has consistently delivered authentic and memorable portrayals, making her a powerhouse in contemporary cinema.
From Ramsay Street to Hollywood Boulevard: The Early Years
Born in Dalby, Queensland, Australia, Margot Robbie first gained significant recognition on the popular Australian soap opera Neighbours from 2008 to 2011. Her role as Donna Freedman established her in her home country, but her ambitions soon turned westward. Relocating to the United States, Robbie quickly navigated the competitive landscape of Los Angeles, landing roles that would eventually define her career. Her early American work, including the short-lived series Pan Am, served as a critical stepping stone, preparing her for the intensity of feature films. Her strategic career choices became evident early on, as she sought out diverse projects that challenged her and allowed her to showcase a broad spectrum of acting abilities.
The Breakthrough: The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Robbie’s career trajectory irrevocably shifted with her electrifying performance as Naomi Lapaglia in Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street. Opposite Leonardo DiCaprio, Robbie commanded the screen with a fierce independence and magnetic presence that instantly marked her as a formidable talent. Her portrayal of the Brooklyn-born wife of stockbroker Jordan Belfort was audacious and uninhibited, revealing a raw charisma that belied her relative inexperience in Hollywood blockbusters. This role not only garnered her widespread critical attention but also demonstrated her ability to hold her own against cinematic heavyweights, setting the stage for a career defined by bold choices and powerful performances. It remains one of Margot Robbie’s best performances, showcasing her ability to dominate a scene.
Embracing Complexity: The Evolution of Margot Robbie’s Performances
Following her explosive debut, Robbie deliberately avoided typecasting, choosing roles that pushed her artistic boundaries. She sought out projects across genres, from romantic comedies to intense dramas, steadily building a filmography that highlighted her versatility. This period saw her starring in films like Focus (2015) alongside Will Smith, where she showcased her comedic timing and sharp wit, and the lesser-known but critically praised Z for Zachariah (2015), a post-apocalyptic drama that allowed her to explore a more understated and introspective character. These early roles were crucial in establishing her range and proving she was more than just a captivating screen presence.
The Anti-Heroine Icon: Harley Quinn
Margot Robbie’s embodiment of Harley Quinn across three distinct films has become one of her most iconic contributions to modern cinema. She first brought the character to life in David Ayer’s Suicide Squad (2016), introducing a chaotic yet charming interpretation that quickly became a fan favorite. However, it was her subsequent portrayals that truly allowed her to explore the character’s depths and complexities, establishing her as a definitive cinematic Harley.
Her role in Cathy Yan’s Birds of Prey (2020) offered a more nuanced and liberated version of Quinn, exploring her journey of self-discovery post-Joker. Robbie, also a producer on the film, had significant creative input, shaping Harley into a protagonist with agency and a distinct voice. This iteration showcased her comedic chops and her ability to anchor an ensemble, delivering one of Margot Robbie’s best performances. She further refined the character in James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad (2021), blending explosive action with surprising emotional vulnerability, solidifying her status as the quintessential Harley Quinn. For the purpose of ranking, we consider her collective impact across these roles, with Birds of Prey often cited as her most comprehensive and influential portrayal of the character.
Oscar Nominations and Critical Acclaim: Unpacking Margot Robbie’s Top Roles
Robbie’s commitment to challenging roles soon translated into significant industry recognition, culminating in multiple Academy Award nominations. Her ability to fully transform for a character, both physically and emotionally, became a hallmark of her work.
1. I, Tonya (2017): This biographical dark comedy delivered Robbie’s first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Her portrayal of controversial figure skater Tonya Harding was a tour de force, capturing Harding’s grit, vulnerability, and complex persona with astonishing accuracy. Robbie underwent extensive training to master ice skating and embraced the physical demands of the role, delivering a performance lauded for its raw authenticity and emotional resonance. It stands as a testament to her dedication and a high point among Margot Robbie’s best performances.
2. Bombshell (2019): Earning her a second Oscar nomination, this time for Best Supporting Actress, Robbie’s performance as Kayla Pospisil, a fictionalized ambitious young Fox News producer, was a masterclass in subtlety and internal struggle. Her portrayal of a woman navigating the toxic corporate culture and sexual harassment at the network was deeply affecting, resonating with audiences and critics for its quiet power and heartbreaking vulnerability.
3. Barbie (2023): Beyond its staggering box office success and cultural impact, Barbie showcased Robbie’s extraordinary range as an actress and her visionary leadership as a producer. Her portrayal of Stereotypical Barbie was a delicate balance of comedic timing, existential angst, and profound emotional depth. Robbie seamlessly navigated the film’s satirical humor and its poignant exploration of identity, feminism, and the human condition. The film earned her a third Oscar nomination as a producer for Best Picture, cementing her status as a formidable force both in front of and behind the camera. This role redefined her public image and demonstrated her unique ability to embody an iconic character while infusing it with contemporary relevance.
Other Notable Contributions: Rounding Out the Top 11 Performances
While the Oscar-nominated roles and Harley Quinn stand out, Robbie’s filmography is rich with other compelling performances that underscore her consistent excellence.
4. Babylon (2022): As Nellie LaRoy, an ambitious and volatile aspiring actress in 1920s Hollywood, Robbie delivered a performance of unbridled energy and raw ambition. Her portrayal captured the chaotic excess and eventual tragic downfall of the silent film era, showcasing her ability to embody characters with intense, larger-than-life personalities and deep underlying vulnerability.
5. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019): In Quentin Tarantino’s reimagining of 1969 Los Angeles, Robbie’s portrayal of Sharon Tate was a beacon of grace and light. Despite having limited dialogue, her performance was profoundly impactful, conveying Tate’s innocent joy and vibrant spirit through subtle expressions and movements. She beautifully captured the essence of a beloved figure without resorting to mimicry, a quiet yet powerful entry among Margot Robbie’s best performances.
6. Mary Queen of Scots (2018): Robbie underwent a dramatic physical transformation to play Queen Elizabeth I, showcasing her commitment to historical accuracy and character immersion. Her performance was a powerful study in regal authority, political cunning, and the personal sacrifices demanded by power. The film’s climactic confrontation between the two queens was a masterclass in dramatic tension.
7. Focus (2015): This stylish heist film paired Robbie with Will Smith, and her performance as Jess Barrett was marked by her sharp wit, undeniable charm, and a captivating screen presence. She adeptly navigated the film’s intricate plot twists, proving her capability in high-stakes thrillers with a strong romantic element.
8. Z for Zachariah (2015): A departure from her more glamorous roles, Robbie’s portrayal of Ann Burden in this post-apocalyptic drama was quiet and intense. She effectively conveyed Ann’s resilience, moral conflicts, and deep-seated fears in a world stripped bare, demonstrating her ability to carry a film with a nuanced, character-driven performance.
9. Goodbye Christopher Robin (2017): In this poignant biographical drama, Robbie played Daphne Milne, wife of A.A. Milne. Her performance captured the complexities of a mother struggling with her husband’s fame and its impact on their son, offering a sensitive and emotionally layered portrayal in a period setting.
10. The Legend of Tarzan (2016): As Jane Clayton, Robbie brought a modern sensibility to a classic character. She portrayed Jane not as a damsel in distress, but as a spirited, intelligent, and fiercely independent woman, injecting agency and strength into the adventure narrative.
11. Amsterdam (2022): In David O. Russell’s ensemble mystery, Robbie delivered a captivating performance as Valerie Voze, an eccentric artist caught in a web of intrigue. Her portrayal was vibrant and unpredictable, showcasing her ability to stand out in a star-studded cast and inject unique energy into complex characters.
Beyond Acting: The Power of LuckyChap Entertainment
Margot Robbie’s influence extends far beyond her acting roles. In 2014, she co-founded LuckyChap Entertainment with her husband Tom Ackerley and producing partners Josey McNamara and Sophia Kerr. The production company was established with a clear mission: to tell female-driven stories and champion female filmmakers. This initiative has been instrumental in shaping her career and contributing significantly to Hollywood’s evolving landscape.
LuckyChap has been behind some of Robbie’s most critically acclaimed projects, including I, Tonya, Birds of Prey, Promising Young Woman, and the monumental success of Barbie. The company’s commitment to diverse narratives and empowering women in the industry has not only provided Robbie with greater creative control but has also paved the way for other female voices to be heard. Her role as a producer underscores her dedication to not just performing great roles, but actively creating opportunities for them.
Cultural Impact and Future Endeavors
Margot Robbie has become a symbol of modern Hollywood success: a bankable star who balances commercial blockbusters with artistically ambitious projects. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences, from comic book fans to art-house enthusiasts, speaks to her broad appeal and genuine talent. The global phenomenon of Barbie in particular cemented her status as a cultural icon, demonstrating her unique power to drive conversations around complex social issues through mainstream entertainment.
As she continues to select challenging and impactful roles, and through her visionary work with LuckyChap Entertainment, Margot Robbie is poised to further solidify her legacy. Her trajectory suggests a continued commitment to authentic storytelling, breaking new ground both as a performer and as a producer. Her journey is a testament to the power of dedication, strategic vision, and an undeniable talent that has made her one of the most compelling figures in contemporary cinema.
