MICHAEL LOMAX: ‘Focus’ lacks focus, but still fun

To make a heist film, you must have clear direction. Is it a shoot-’em-up? A political statement? A revenge tale? It’s OK to throw other elements in the plot, but you can’t go too far off course. “Focus” is a prime example of a film that can’t quite figure out its own vision.

Starring Will Smith as veteran conman Nicky Spurgeon and Margot Robbie as newbie grifter Jess Barrett, “Focus” tells a love story between two thieves and the heists that connect, tear apart, and bring them back together. The film further mixes a Super Bowl and Formula One racing as well as a motley crew of loners, slick renegades, and millionaires with few moral misgivings but a surprising amount of honor.

In other words, it’s like any other heist film just with updated locations.

That doesn’t mean “Focus” isn’t good. A ton of films are predictable, but because of some combination of acting and action and pace, you end up with a thrill ride. “Focus” is no different. The chemistry between Nicky and Jess is palpable—he as the mentor with a shady past, and she as the talented rookie with furious sex appeal. Their witty banter is delightful, and their sideshow cart full of criminal tricks will entice even the most hardened deputy sheriff.

Where the film runs afoul is its inability to stay focused on just what story it’s trying to tell. In exploring too many genres, it sacrifices elements of the whole to satisfy individual story lines. At its heart, “Focus” is a romance set against the backdrop of the heist. And this works just fine for a time. But eventually the romance fizzles out, and the film makes little effort to (1) explain why and (2) justify rebuilding it.

Romances need back-stories. Nicky leaves Jess for a reason that’s never fully explored. Apparently he’s scared of his feelings for her. But the film never attempts to provide an answer why. So when they do get back together, of course you have a hard time buying it. “Focus” essentially tries to steal your wallet but can’t figure out which pocket to pick.

Thank goodness for the acting jobs and the entertaining premise, which help you get over the inconsistencies dappled throughout. While hardly an “Ocean’s Eleven” or “Reservoir Dogs” or even an “Inception” (let alone “The Sting,” which actually won seven Oscars), “Focus” provides just enough of a good time if you’re willing to let go the major problems. Otherwise, you’re leaving yourself open for quite the con.

Michael Lomax is a writer—filmmaker currently at work on a feature film script to be set and shot in Albany.