Margot Robbie, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in blockbuster hits and critically lauded films, has recently shed light on a pivotal decision she made early in her career that solidified her dedication to authentic character portrayal. It concerns her role as Naomi Lapaglia in Martin Scorsese’s electrifying cinematic masterpiece, The Wolf of Wall Street.
Margot Robbie at a movie premiere, smiling confidently.
In a revealing conversation on the “Talking Pictures” podcast, Robbie, now 34, recounted a moment on set that underscored her commitment to the character’s truth. During the filming of a particularly memorable scene requiring nudity, director Martin Scorsese offered a robe, suggesting it as an option if she felt uncomfortable. However, Robbie’s response was resolute. She believed Naomi, a character defined by her confidence and unapologetic nature, would not opt for modesty in that situation. “She would not put a robe on,” Robbie stated emphatically, explaining her reasoning that Naomi’s power play in the scene was intrinsically linked to her complete lack of inhibition, symbolized by her nudity.
Reflecting on the experience, Robbie admitted that at the time, around 21 years old during filming in 2012-2013, her primary focus was on embodying the character authentically. The broader implications of the full-frontal nudity scene, and how it would be perceived by a global audience, only dawned on her later. Her initial concerns shifted from performance-centric anxieties to more personal considerations, particularly how to discuss this bold career choice with her family.
Margot Robbie and Leonardo DiCaprio in a scene from 'The Wolf of Wall Street', showcasing their on-screen chemistry.
Beyond the nudity scene, Robbie also shared captivating anecdotes from her audition process for The Wolf of Wall Street, particularly her interactions with Leonardo DiCaprio, who played the lead role of Jordan Belfort. During her audition, Robbie recalled an instinctive moment where, instead of simply kissing DiCaprio as initially envisioned, she spontaneously slapped him across the face. This unexpected improvisation, initially causing a moment of stunned silence, was met with uproarious laughter and praise from both Scorsese and DiCaprio. They urged her to repeat the scene, solidifying her bold approach and leaving a lasting impression.
Margot Robbie on the set of 'The Wolf of Wall Street', captured in a behind-the-scenes moment.
Robbie’s recollections highlight not only her courage and commitment to her craft at a young age but also provide a fascinating glimpse into the dynamic and improvisational environment fostered on the set of The Wolf of Wall Street. Her willingness to push boundaries, both in embracing nudity for the sake of character authenticity and in her spontaneous audition choices, underscores the dedication and talent that have propelled her to become one of Hollywood’s leading actresses. Her performance in The Wolf of Wall Street remains a landmark moment in her career, showcasing her ability to command the screen alongside industry titans like DiCaprio and under the direction of a legendary filmmaker like Scorsese. The film itself, based on the memoir of Jordan Belfort, became a cultural phenomenon, and Robbie’s portrayal of Naomi Lapaglia is still celebrated as a defining role that announced her arrival as a major force in cinema.
