In the glittering, often unpredictable world of Hollywood, where talent, timing, and sheer tenacity converge to forge careers, even the most established stars can trace their paths back to unexpected sources of inspiration. For Margot Robbie, the acclaimed "Barbie" actor and three-time Oscar nominee, one such profound influence came from an unexpected place: a viral audition tape featuring fellow A-lister Rachel McAdams. Robbie recently revealed that McAdams’ legendary screen test for "The Notebook" served as her personal masterclass, a pre-audition ritual that she credits with helping her navigate the cutthroat industry and ascend to her current pinnacle of success. This candid admission during a BBC Radio 2 interview, amidst the press tour for her latest film, "Wuthering Heights," offers a fascinating glimpse into the dedication and subtle mentorship that often underpins even the most meteoric rises.
Robbie, now a household name synonymous with blockbuster hits and critical darlings, confessed to an almost ritualistic practice before her own crucial auditions. "I used to watch Rachel McAdams’ audition for ‘The Notebook’ before I would go to auditions. She’s so good, and she’s so charming and real, and like, in it," Robbie shared, her admiration palpable. "I used to watch it before I’d go to an audition, I was like, ‘OK, just try and be as good as her.’" This practice wasn’t just about mimicry; it was about internalizing a standard of excellence, a blueprint for authenticity and commitment that McAdams so effortlessly embodied in that now-iconic performance.
The enduring power of Rachel McAdams’ "The Notebook" audition tape is a testament to her raw talent and the indelible mark she left on audiences and peers alike. Shot during a screen test opposite Ryan Gosling, the footage captures a moment of pure, unadulterated acting prowess. McAdams, portraying Allie Calhoun, delivers a performance brimming with vulnerability, passion, and a visceral honesty that transcends the screen. Her ability to inhabit the character so completely, to convey a tumultuous emotional landscape with such nuance and conviction, made it clear why she ultimately secured the role that would cement her status as a romantic lead for a generation. The chemistry between McAdams and Gosling was electric, igniting a cinematic romance that became a cultural touchstone and one of the most beloved films of the 21st century. For aspiring actors like a young Margot Robbie, still finding her footing in the competitive landscape, this tape was more than just an audition; it was a masterclass in presence, sincerity, and emotional availability.
When pressed on whether McAdams’ influence directly led to specific roles, Robbie’s response was insightful and gracious. "Technically, you could say any part I got would’ve been in thanks to her because I was always watching her audition before," she explained, emphasizing the foundational impact. "It’s just the commitment. I always watched it to remind myself that you have to fully commit in the audition room." This concept of "full commitment" is paramount in acting. It’s about more than just memorizing lines; it’s about diving headfirst into the character’s emotional world, believing in the stakes, and allowing genuine emotion to surface. McAdams’ audition, in Robbie’s eyes, was a perfect illustration of this principle, a powerful reminder to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of truth within a scene.
The connection between the two stars extends beyond an aspirational viewing of a screen test. Robbie revealed a personal encounter that further solidified her admiration for McAdams. "And I got to work with her in ‘About Time.’ I had a small role, and she’s the lead in it. I was absolutely no one back then and she was so lovely to me and my brother. I’ll never forget how she’d go out of her way to be so kind. I just love her." This anecdote paints a picture of McAdams not just as a talented performer, but as a genuinely kind and supportive individual. In the hierarchical world of film sets, where established leads often have little interaction with newcomers in minor roles, McAdams’ attentiveness left a lasting impression on Robbie. "About Time," directed by Richard Curtis, is a charming romantic comedy-drama released in 2013, a pivotal year for Robbie as she was on the cusp of her breakout. In the film, McAdams stars as Mary, the primary love interest, while Robbie played Charlotte, a fleeting, early romantic possibility for the protagonist, Tim. For Robbie, who had recently transitioned from her successful run on the Australian soap opera "Neighbours" to navigating the challenging waters of Hollywood, working alongside an actor of McAdams’ caliber, and experiencing her warmth firsthand, was undoubtedly a significant moment. It showcased not only the professional standard to aspire to but also the humanistic qualities that define true character in the industry.
Margot Robbie’s journey to A-list status is a compelling narrative of ambition, strategic choices, and undeniable talent. After gaining popularity on "Neighbours," she made the audacious leap to Hollywood, a move that often proves difficult for international soap stars. Her breakthrough came with Martin Scorsese’s "The Wolf of Wall Street" in 2013, where her fearless and electrifying performance opposite Leonardo DiCaprio instantly put her on the map. From there, Robbie meticulously built a diverse and critically acclaimed filmography, showcasing her range in projects like "I, Tonya" (earning her first Oscar nomination), "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," "Bombshell" (her second Oscar nod), and most recently, the cultural phenomenon "Barbie," which garnered her a third nomination as a producer. Beyond her acting prowess, Robbie has also proven to be a formidable force behind the scenes as a producer through her company, LuckyChap Entertainment, which has championed female-led stories and garnered significant industry acclaim. Her meticulous preparation, her commitment to each role, and her strategic career development can all be seen as reflections of the very qualities she admired in McAdams’ audition tape.
Rachel McAdams, for her part, has cultivated a remarkable career defined by versatility and a grounded authenticity that resonates deeply with audiences. Beyond "The Notebook," her filmography boasts an impressive array of genres and performances, from the sharp wit of "Mean Girls" to the dramatic depth of "Spotlight" (for which she received an Oscar nomination), and the romantic charm of films like "The Family Stone" and, of course, "About Time." Her ability to transition seamlessly between comedy, drama, and romance, always bringing a sense of genuine emotion and intelligence to her characters, has solidified her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most reliable and beloved leading ladies. The "A-list" designation, often nebulous, typically signifies an actor’s ability to consistently draw audiences, command substantial salaries, garner critical acclaim, and exert influence within the industry – criteria both Robbie and McAdams undeniably meet.
The symbiotic relationship between inspiration and success in Hollywood is a powerful one. While Robbie may not have disclosed the specific roles directly influenced by McAdams’ audition tape, her candid remarks suggest its impact was pervasive, shaping her approach to countless auditions and, by extension, her entire career trajectory. It underscores the idea that success isn’t always forged in isolation; often, it’s built upon the silent lessons learned from those who have come before, the standards set by others’ excellence.
Both actors are currently captivating audiences with their latest projects, further cementing their places in the cinematic landscape. Rachel McAdams has been enjoying significant box office success with Sam Raimi’s latest thriller, "Send Help." The film has reportedly topped the box office in its first two weekends of release, showcasing McAdams’ continued draw and her ability to thrive in diverse genres. Raimi, known for his distinctive blend of horror, action, and suspense, likely provides a compelling backdrop for McAdams to deliver another captivating performance, reinforcing her reputation for versatility.
Meanwhile, Margot Robbie is headlining a highly anticipated adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel, "Wuthering Heights," opposite rising star Jacob Elordi. This Warner Bros. release, opening in theaters on February 13, is targeting a robust No. 1 debut, with industry projections estimating around $50 million in its opening weekend. Robbie’s choice to take on such an iconic, emotionally charged role demonstrates her continued commitment to challenging projects and her ability to anchor prestige productions. Her collaboration with Elordi, a breakout talent himself, promises a fresh take on the timeless tale of passion and tragedy on the desolate moors.
In a world often fixated on rivalries and competition, Robbie’s open acknowledgment of McAdams’ profound influence is a refreshing reminder of the power of inspiration and the quiet acts of kindness that can shape careers. It highlights that even at the pinnacle of fame, actors remain students of their craft, constantly learning, evolving, and drawing strength from the artistry of their peers. Margot Robbie’s journey is a testament not just to her own extraordinary talent, but also to the enduring legacy of Rachel McAdams’ commitment and authenticity, proving that a single, powerful performance can echo through the careers of generations to come.
