Margot Robbie in "Vigilante'" [2008]

by Joseph Perry and Mike Imboden

In their “The Good, the Bad, and the Verdict” film reviews, Joseph and Mike normally give their thoughts on a slice of cinema. However, “Exhumed” will focus on the first (or very early) credits of established actors, giving their roles the GBV treatment. For this installment, it’s Margot Robbie in the 2008 film, Vigilante.

Intro

In Vigilante, Robbie takes on a supporting role as a police detective who becomes romantically involved with the film's protagonist who is embarking on a violent quest for justice. Her character serves as a moral counterpoint and a new emotional anchor for him, providing moments of respite from the film's action.

The Details

Vigilante is by no stretch a great movie with the acting, including Robbie, being its biggest weakness (which is including the screenplay and production values) and as such it’s challenging to isolate Robbie's performance as a singular triumph. However, it's important to frame her contribution within this context. As a young actress gaining experience, her role in the film was undoubtedly a learning opportunity. While the film's narrative and directorial choices may have limited the depth and nuance any actor could bring, Robbie's presence on screen, even in these formative years, hinted at the charisma and screen presence that would later define her career.

The Verdict

Ultimately, Margot Robbie's performance in Vigilante is less about a definitive showcase of her acting prowess and more about an early, foundational step. It predates the roles that would truly allow her to demonstrate her range, from the fierce Naomi in The Wolf of Wall Street to the complex Tonya Harding in I, Tonya and her iconic turn as Harley Quinn. For fans looking to trace the origins of a major star, this film offers a brief, albeit imperfect, look at Margot Robbie in her earliest cinematic endeavors. It's a reminder that even the most celebrated careers begin with humble, yet essential, stepping stones.

Vigilante