Movie Review: Focus
It’s all about focus in the world of con artists and pick pockets. What expert swindler, Nicky Spurgeon played by Will Smith tries to convey to his intern Jess (Margot Robbie) is that you get your victim to pay attention to something else, while diverting them you go in and take whatever you want with them being none the wiser. If you are at all interested in human nature or body language you will undoubtedly enjoy the film Focus.
Nicky is a master illusionist in the art of trickery, cheating and deception. Spurgeon having come from a long line of rip-off artists, his father and grandfather were all in the con game, he learned at an early age how to manipulate people. The beautiful Jess is massively impressed and wants to be taught by the best. I found it extremely interesting just how easy all of this deceit paid off. One can only hope that this is only a movie and the life of crime portrayed in the film is not as glamorous as it has appeared.
Shortly into the film the con artist crew sets off for New Orleans. We learn that wherever there are large events happening, this is where the true criminals come into action, preying on the highly distracted victim with the greatest of ease. The film depicted several different scenarios, that were very entertaining to watch come to fruition. This behavior definitely makes you want to guard you watch, wallet, jewelry, credit cards, and purses much better than may you currently do.
This comedy/drama/crime flick is very entertaining. Certainly not an original role for Will Smith, he still plays his usual expert at something, extremely cocky self that you would expect from him, but nevertheless you will be impressed and amused. Margot Robbie is perfect in her beautiful sidekick role. Honorable mention goes to partner in crime Farhad, played by Adrian Martinez. Matinez was just plain hilarious and always had some sort of funny yet shocking one-liners. Rodrigo Santoro played the sexy, and rich, Garriga, nothing exceptional but nice to look at. Owens played by Gerald McRaney as Grarriga’s right hand of security played a tough-guy that for me was overacted.
All in all friends, the film Focus is engaging. Maybe not a “must see,” but certainly worth your time.
Betsy Cizek
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