Celine Song's new film Materialists is very good in surprising ways and not good in familiar ones—partly a leap far ahead of Past Lives and partly a trudge on the same narrow path:https://t.co/BAoKvyoLLB
— Richard Brody (@tnyfrontrow) June 13, 2025
Dakota Johnson stars as Lucy, a successful New York City matchmaker, in Celine Song’s new romantic drama “Materialists.” The film delves into the complexities of modern dating and the tension between material comforts and genuine connections. Song, who previously directed the acclaimed movie “Past Lives,” drew inspiration from her own experience working as a matchmaker in her 20s. She observed a stark contrast between her clients’ extensive lists of requirements for potential partners and the qualities she valued in her own creative and brilliant friends.
Materialists” follows Lucy as she navigates the challenges of her own love life.
You know what? I think Celine Song's clear-eyed but wistful MATERIALISTS -is- a romantic comedy. Just don't call it a rom-com. https://t.co/YAGb36B2oW
— Stephanie Zacharek (@szacharek) June 13, 2025
When wealthy client Peter, played by Pedro Pascal, pursues Lucy instead of her clients, she must choose between the financial stability he offers and the deeper connection she feels with her ex-boyfriend John, portrayed by Chris Evans. Song’s screenplay, written in 2022, continues her exploration of love and longing.
She believes that even the most intelligent people can struggle with matters of the heart. “Love is a mystery,” Song said during a recent interview. The film’s casting process focused on finding actors who were serious about their craft and deeply invested in their roles.
Few films & film-makers urge you to be a deeper thinker, feeler, watcher, critic. Song is one of them. Being able to write on MATERIALISTS has been a personal high point in a bleak year:https://t.co/U0P2uel1Kr
— Rahul Desai (@ReelReptile) June 15, 2025
Celine Song reimagines the lyrics without the music. Really enjoyed writing about MATERIALISTS, the MONEYBALL of romantic comedies:https://t.co/U0P2uel1Kr
— Rahul Desai (@ReelReptile) June 14, 2025
Dakota Johnson impressed Song with her balance of professionalism and vulnerability, while Chris Evans brought a delicate sense of self and sweetness to his role.
Exploring modern love’s complexities
Pedro Pascal’s duality of outward stoicism and inner vulnerability added depth to his character.
Song pays meticulous attention to wardrobe choices, aiming for relatability while also incorporating elements of fantasy. Dakota Johnson’s character, Lucy, wears a mix of high-end and professional basics, reflecting her working-class roots and current affluent lifestyle. Materialists joins the ranks of classic romantic works by directors like Nora Ephron, Nancy Meyers, James L. Brooks, and Mike Leigh. Song’s approach to the film is akin to a modern Victorian romance, focusing on the marriage market and the universal theme of love. Through “Materialists,” Song continues her exploration of love, relationships, and the modern dating market.
The film’s powerful message, “I’m not merchandise. I’m a person,” captures the essence of its relatable themes of love and self-valuation. As “Materialists” hits theaters, audiences can expect a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant romantic drama that showcases Song’s unique perspective and the talents of its impressive cast.
