Focus is a film of clear halves; a time jump refreshes the narrative just as you start to wonder if its hackneyed premise is actually going anywhere. Despite a somewhat predictable conclusion, Ficarra and Requa lead an elaborate dance, creating pacy setpieces where the perceived upper hand is in constant flux.

Their dialogue, however, isn’t as smart as it thinks it is, forcing long-winded exposition that unfortunately mars some of the film’s most climactic sequences.

Robbie, though, shines in a role with just enough to it to suggest more interesting parts will come to her in the future.

Very occasionally Focus’ Hollywood glamour is offset by an allusion to the idea that money can’t buy happiness, but essentially this is a hustler romp with a surprisingly romantic slant.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Will Smith, Margot Robbie

DIRECTORS: Glenn Ficarra and John Requa

WRITERS: Glenn Ficarra and John Requa

SYNOPSIS: A conman briefly takes on an ambitious and attractive upstart as his protégé, bumping into her by chance three years later.