Margot Robbie, recognized not just for her striking appearance but for her powerful acting abilities, continues to build a career aimed at critical acclaim rather than just commercial success. As her latest film, Wuthering Heights, prepares for release in 2026, revisiting the best Margot Robbie performances is timely, showcasing her evolving talent and the diverse roles she has undertaken.
New Chemistry and Depth in Wuthering Heights
In Wuthering Heights, Robbie shares the screen with Jacob Elordi, delivering a compelling performance as Cathy. The pair’s dynamic especially shines in the first half of the film, filled with teasing exchanges and vivid emotions. Elordi impresses with his portrayal of Heathcliff, balancing pain and protectiveness, offering a performance that some see as ideal for future roles such as James Bond. Robbie complements him perfectly, embodying Cathy’s beauty and unique quirks with enthusiasm that reveals her joy in this role.
“Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie have insane chemistry together, especially in the first half, where they’re as much teasing each other as anything else. Elordi in particular continues to impress me here, so much so that I now see him as the correct choice to take over the role of James Bond. His physicality here, as well as the way he can play rough and tumble, as well as high society, completely work for 007. Make it happen, decision makers. As Heathcliff, he leans into internalizing the pain of his existence, dedicated only to loving and protecting Cathy. When he’s hurt and begins his devious game, you almost feel like it’s a necessary outlet. Along with Frankenstein last year, it’s the best work of his career. Robbie is excellent, too, born to be in a Fennell film. She’s able to give Cathy her great beauty while also showcasing what makes her quirky and a little unique. Robbie is having the time of her life here, and it shows. They’re the best on-screen pair of the year so far.” – Film Critic
Highlighting Comic and Dramatic Range in Barbie
Robbie’s role in Barbie further demonstrates her versatile talent, blending comedy with emotional depth. Alongside Ryan Gosling, she delivers scenes that range from hilarious to heartfelt, with Gosling’s energetic performance complementing her own. Robbie carries the dramatic moments with grace, evoking genuine emotion by the film’s end, standing out amongst the ensemble cast of Barbies and Kens.
“Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling are phenomenal here, each as good as they’ve ever been. Gosling is a comedic goldmine and deserves legitimate Best Supporting Actor consideration. The amount that he throws himself into this role is staggering and staggeringly delightful. The commitment itself is hilarious, let alone his comic timing. Robbie is funny too, but has the dramatic high points, potentially making you roll a tear by the end. I know I did. The other Barbies and Kens have their moments, for sure, but Gosling and Robbie are the highlights.” – Film Reviewer
A Commanding Presence in Babylon
In the ensemble film Babylon, Robbie leads with a fiery and captivating presence. Sharing the spotlight with Diego Calva and Brad Pitt, she emerges as a standout performer. Calva embodies the audience’s perspective, while Pitt injects playful energy into his role. Robbie, however, dominates her scenes, bringing a relentless energy that makes her performance impossible to ignore.
“Diego Calva, Brad Pitt, and especially Margot Robbie lead a game ensemble cast. Calva and Robbie are best in show, while Pitt is just having a ball. Calva is our audience surrogate, really embracing the wonder, as well as the compromised values, that mark his journey. His final scene hammers home not just the strength of the performance but the themes of the movie as well. Pitt is having fun and going on the most predictable arc, but he’s a blast to follow along with. Then, there’s Robbie, who is best in show and an absolute spitfire. She’s a force of nature here and impossible not to be captivated by.” – Movie Critic
Ranking Margot Robbie’s Most Memorable Roles
Evaluating Robbie’s 2026 portrayals reveals a lineup of performances showcasing her growth and range. While her acclaim peaks with Barbie and I, Tonya, other strong entries enrich her filmography. Titles like Babylon display her intensity, and films such as Bombshell, the two Harley Quinn outings—Birds of Prey and The Suicide Squad—and her breakout in The Wolf of Wall Street remain vital to her career narrative. Her role in Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights joins this esteemed list, marking a significant point of interest for fans and critics alike.
The Definitive List of Robbie’s Top Ten Performances
Here is the updated ranking of Margot Robbie’s best roles as of 2026:
Honorable Mentions: About Time, Amsterdam, Focus, Goodbye Christopher Robin, Mary Queen of Scots, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
10. The Suicide Squad – Robbie brings her signature energy to this action-packed sequel, blending humor and toughness in her portrayal.
9. Birds of Prey – Continuing her exploration of Harley Quinn, she delivers a wild and vibrant performance that balances chaos with emotion.
8. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood – A supporting yet impactful role that adds depth to Tarantino’s nostalgic tale of old Hollywood.
7. The Wolf of Wall Street – Robbie’s breakout role introduced audiences to her charisma and dynamic presence.
6. Bombshell – A gripping portrayal in a story of power and reckoning, demonstrating her dramatic capabilities.
5. Wuthering Heights – A fresh and captivating take on Cathy, highlighting her ability to navigate complex emotions.
4. Z for Zachariah – One of her more underrated performances, showcasing subtlety and strength in a post-apocalyptic setting.
3. Babylon – A commanding force within an ensemble, exhibiting energy and intensity.
2. Barbie – A mix of comedy and heartfelt drama that stands as one of her most beloved roles.
1. I, Tonya – The role that cemented her as a serious actress, combining grit, humor, and emotional depth.
Looking Ahead to Margot Robbie’s Emerging Roles
Margot Robbie’s career continues on a promising trajectory, with her nuanced performances in 2026 indicating even greater achievements ahead. Her adaptability from biographical drama to comic brilliance confirms her status as one of Hollywood’s foremost talents. Audiences and critics alike eagerly anticipate her future projects, expecting them to push boundaries and showcase her relentless dedication to her craft.
What are your favorite performances from Margot Robbie? Let us know!
