“Not Just for Dudes”: Margot Robbie Defends Her Unexpected Favourite Action Movie

In an industry historically shaped by rigid gender norms and stereotypes, Margot Robbie stands out as a powerful advocate for redefining how action movies portray women. While cinema has long been divided into genres supposedly “for men” or “for women,” Robbie challenges this outdated binary with her passion for action films and her determination to push female-led stories into the spotlight. Her own experiences and choices in Hollywood reflect a desire to bridge the gender gap in a genre often dominated by male-driven narratives and machismo.

The Gender Divide in Movie Genres: Misconceptions and Realities

For decades, film genres have been stereotypically associated with gender roles. Movies featuring female protagonists tend to be labeled “women’s films,” often focusing on romance, emotion, or personal drama. Meanwhile, action films—with their intense violence, physicality, and explosive sequences—have been pegged as “male movies,” catering primarily to a male audience. This division, however, oversimplifies the diverse interests of moviegoers and ignores the complexity of female characters across genres.

Interestingly, many horror and thriller movies have long featured strong, complex female leads who defy the passive stereotypes typically assigned to women in film. Yet, despite these examples, action movies still suffer from a narrow perception that they are mainly for men. This perception is deeply embedded in Hollywood and audience expectations, where masculinity is often synonymous with power, physical dominance, and heroism on screen.

The Double Standards of Gendered Cinema

The gender bias in cinema doesn’t just affect action movies; it permeates comedy and other genres as well. For example, comedies like Mean Girls are often dismissed as “chick flicks” that many men wouldn’t dare watch, whereas Superbad is considered a universal cult classic, embraced by all genders. Such double standards highlight how cultural norms shape what types of entertainment are deemed appropriate or enjoyable for men versus women.

This divide also affects how female action movies are received. They are often the target of jokes and skepticism, dismissed by some as lesser or less serious compared to their male-led counterparts. This kind of narrow-minded attitude is something Margot Robbie is determined to change. She actively works to elevate female action heroes and challenge the outdated notion that women can’t command the same on-screen presence in action roles as men.

Margot Robbie’s Role in Shaping Female Action Cinema

With memorable performances as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad, The Suicide Squad, and Birds of Prey, Margot Robbie has carved out a niche for herself as a formidable female action star. These roles allowed her to demonstrate that women can lead explosive, thrilling narratives just as effectively as men, combining physicality with nuance.

Beyond acting, Robbie’s production company, LuckyChap Entertainment, has been ambitious in its mission to tell diverse stories centered around women. One notable, though unrealized, project was an all-female reboot of the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. This initiative underscored her commitment to creating opportunities for women to be depicted as fearless, complex heroes in traditionally male-dominated genres.

Robbie uses her influence to encourage Hollywood to broaden its understanding of who the audience for action films really is. She sees a real demand among women for more female ensemble action films and is passionate about filling that gap.

Challenging the Misconception: Action Films Are Not Just for Men

In interviews, Margot Robbie has been candid about her love for action cinema and her frustration with the perception that it is a male-only domain. She told Variety, “I’d been thinking for quite some time how there was a real gap in the market for a female ensemble action film. And I love action films, and I think there’s a misconception, perhaps subconsciously, for people: action films are for dudes, girls don’t really like them. Which is just not true. I love them! I know heaps of other women who love them.”

Robbie’s perspective is a refreshing challenge to the stereotype. She reminds audiences that appreciation for action-packed storytelling transcends gender. Women, too, enjoy adrenaline-fueled, high-stakes narratives where heroes overcome incredible odds. It’s time for Hollywood to recognize and cater to that demand.

Margot Robbie’s Favourite Action Movie: Charlie’s Angels

When asked about her favourite action film, Robbie points to a classic that often faces criticism despite its cultural impact—Charlie’s Angels (2000). Directed by Joseph McGinty Nichol (McG), the movie brought the beloved television series to the big screen with a blend of action, humor, and self-awareness.

Featuring Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Lucy Liu, Charlie’s Angels redefined the action genre by embracing camp, wit, and a knowing nod to the clichés and tropes surrounding female characters in action movies. Despite being dismissed by some as a lighthearted romp, the film offers sharp commentary on how women are portrayed in genres traditionally dominated by men.

Margot Robbie admires Charlie’s Angels for its ability to mix fun and empowerment, creating a space where women can be both fierce and funny. She recognizes that if the same story had featured men in the lead roles, it likely would have been taken more seriously by critics and audiences alike.

Why Female Action Movies Matter

The importance of movies like Charlie’s Angels and the roles Robbie takes on cannot be overstated. Female action movies provide representation that inspires and empowers women by showing them as active agents of change and adventure. They break down antiquated ideas about gender and capability, opening doors for more diverse storytelling.

As Robbie continues to choose and produce projects that put women front and center, she helps to reshape Hollywood’s landscape. Her work pushes back against the outdated idea that action is a “male” genre and proves that women can lead in every cinematic arena—from heart-pounding stunts to emotional storytelling.

The Future of Female Action Cinema with Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie’s career and vision are paving the way for a new era in action filmmaking—one where women are not only protagonists but also creators, producers, and leaders behind the scenes. By championing female-driven stories and showcasing the full range of women’s talents, she helps broaden the appeal and acceptance of action films for all audiences.

Hollywood’s future looks brighter and more inclusive as stars like Robbie continue to challenge norms and create films that reflect the diverse tastes of global viewers. With her passion and dedication, Margot Robbie is not just an action star; she is a trailblazer for gender equality in cinema.

Redefining Action Cinema Through Margot Robbie’s Lens

Margot Robbie’s favourite action movie and her outspoken views on the genre shed light on the misconceptions that still exist in Hollywood and beyond. By embracing films like Charlie’s Angels and pushing for more female-led action projects, Robbie stands at the forefront of a cultural shift toward inclusivity and equality.

Action films aren’t just for men. They’re for anyone who loves thrilling stories, dynamic characters, and spectacular feats of bravery. And thanks to Margot Robbie’s talent and advocacy, the future promises more female heroes, complex narratives, and unforgettable moments on screen.