“Focus” is the story of Nicky (Will Smith), a professional criminal who agrees to train an aspiring young con artist named Jess (Margot Robbie), but then falls for her harder than they both expect.
The story begins when Jess attempts to seduce Nicky in an effort to rob him, but Nicky sees through her deception and walks away. She pursues him, drawn to his skill, and begs him to mentor her. Nicky grudgingly agrees, and begins coaching her on the importance of manipulating her victim’s focus. Both are unaware how important that technique will become in their own story.
Eventually Nicky hires her to meet his team in New Orleans and perform two high-end heists. After the New Orleans operation, though, the two part ways.
In Buenos Aires three years later, Nicky is hired by Garriga (Roderigo Santoro) in a multi-million euro racecar deception. Nicky is staggered to see Jess with Garriga and cannot stop trying to see her.
Will Jess fall for Nicky again even though he left her in New Orleans? Will Nicky finish the job for Garriga, or will he attempt to steal the money for himself and get away? Or are both Nicky and Jess playing different games? Who will lose focus first?
“It was fun, but the story relied too much on an unbelievable relationship,” said moviegoer Elliott. “Jess and Nicky only spend a week together, and yet we’re asked to believe that this personal connection is enough to propel the rest of the plot three years later.” He went on to say that the film felt like an attempt to imitate the success of the Ocean’s Eleven series of films.
But maybe the filmmakers hoped that, with enough twists and action, it should be easy for viewers to suspend their disbelief.
Or is that only if you can lose your focus?
Focus
Starring: Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Roderigo Santoro
Run time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Rated: R
See upcoming showtimes for Focus here.
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Becca Garber
Staff Writer
eCoronado.com
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