Margot Robbie‘s recent comments highlight a common debate in Hollywood: should movies be made with audiences or critics in mind? During a discussion with her “Wuthering Heights” co-star Jacob Elordi and moderator Joel Edgerton, Robbie emphasized her steadfast focus on the moviegoing audience. Her approach prioritizes the viewers who buy tickets, underlining her belief in crafting films that resonate with the public rather than pandering to critical acclaim.
Audience-First Philosophy
Speaking candidly, Robbie revealed that her primary consideration on set is the audience’s emotional journey. “I’ve never, ever been on set and thought, ‘What are the critics going to think of this?’” she explained. Her commitment to creating engaging cinematic experiences drives her work, indicating a clear alignment with the interests of those filling theater seats.
The emphasis on making movies for the audience is a philosophy that many filmmakers, including Robbie, stand by. This sentiment reflects a broader industry trend prioritizing viewer satisfaction over critical response.
Collaboration with Emerald Fennell
Robbie’s collaboration with director Emerald Fennell further underscores her focus on audience experience. She praised Fennell for valuing emotional impact over intellectual concepts, noting, “She’s very smart… but she’ll let a cool idea fall by the wayside to offer the option that’s going to be most exciting for the audience.” Their partnership on films like “Wuthering Heights” and the Oscar-winning “Promising Young Woman” illustrates their shared commitment to this approach.
Their films often spark discussion, with “Wuthering Heights” commanding attention despite its polarizing reception. This aligns with Robbie’s goal of crafting movies that engage audiences and drive conversation.
Navigating Industry Expectations
Robbie’s focus on the audience contrasts with the experiences of other actors, like Jennifer Lawrence, who have spoken about the anxiety of releasing films to public scrutiny. Lawrence’s candid reflections on the emotional toll of mixed receptions add another layer to the conversation about audience versus critic responses.
For many in the industry, balancing artistic vision with audience expectations remains a delicate act. Robbie’s strategy of prioritizing the ticket-buying public offers a refreshing perspective in this ongoing dialogue.
Join Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi in their full GQ Australia interview in the video below, where they elaborate on their filmmaking philosophies and discuss their experiences.
