Margot Robbie’s portrayal of Naomi Lapaglia in Martin Scorsese’s 2013 masterpiece, The Wolf of Wall Street, was a career-defining moment, catapulting her into global stardom. Her magnetic on-screen presence and undeniable chemistry with Leonardo DiCaprio, who played the infamous Jordan Belfort, captivated audiences worldwide. However, it was Robbie’s unwavering commitment to the role, particularly her insistence on full-frontal nudity in a pivotal scene, that truly cemented her dedication to authentic storytelling.
The film, a visceral depiction of Belfort’s extravagant and morally bankrupt lifestyle as a Wall Street stockbroker, hinges on the seductive and manipulative nature of Naomi. Robbie recently revealed on the Talking Pictures podcast that director Martin Scorsese, known for his collaborative approach, initially offered her the option to wear a robe during the scene where Naomi seduces Jordan. However, Robbie firmly rejected this suggestion, arguing that it fundamentally contradicted the character’s essence and the scene’s dramatic purpose.
Margot Robbie’s breakthrough performance as Naomi Lapaglia in The Wolf of Wall Street (Paramount Pictures)
“I said, ‘That’s not what she would do in that scene,” Robbie explained. “The whole point is that she’s going to come out completely naked — that’s the card she’s playing.” This bold declaration underscores Robbie’s deep understanding of Naomi’s character. Naomi’s sexuality is presented as a potent tool, a form of currency and control in her world. To shy away from this nudity, Robbie argued, would be a disservice to the character’s authenticity and the narrative’s integrity.
Robbie has been open about the initial hesitation she felt regarding the nude scenes. She recounted receiving advice from her manager, who emphasized that if nudity was ever necessary, working with a director of Scorsese’s caliber was the ideal circumstance. This support, coupled with Robbie’s own conviction about the scene’s importance, empowered her to proceed with full commitment.
The impact of The Wolf of Wall Street and its explicit content extended beyond critical acclaim and box office success. Robbie humorously shared an anecdote about her family’s reaction to the film, revealing that one of her brothers was so taken aback by the nudity that he didn’t speak to her for three months. This personal anecdote highlights the film’s provocative nature and the cultural conversation it sparked regarding on-screen nudity.
Margot Robbie’s compelling performance in The Wolf of Wall Street garnered widespread praise (Paramount Pictures)
In a 2014 interview with The Telegraph, Robbie further elaborated on her philosophy regarding nudity in film. She expressed disdain for gratuitous nudity, labeling it “shameful” when used solely for exploitation. Conversely, she also criticized the unrealistic portrayal of modesty in scenes where nudity would be natural, finding it equally jarring when characters are artificially covered up. For Robbie, nudity must serve a narrative purpose and contribute to the authenticity of the character and story.
Ultimately, Margot Robbie’s insistence on full-frontal nudity in The Wolf of Wall Street was not a decision taken lightly, but a calculated artistic choice rooted in character analysis and a commitment to truthful storytelling. Her stance underscores her dedication to her craft and her willingness to push boundaries for the sake of artistic integrity, solidifying her status as a fearless and compelling actress.
