This article contains spoilers.
Directed by Celine Song, known for her work on Past Lives (2023), "Materialists" follows Lucy, a dating consultant in New York City. At a client's wedding, she finds herself pursued by businessman Harry Castillo (Pedro Pascal) while also encountering her ex-boyfriend John (Chris Evans), a struggling actor. These two men force Lucy to choose between financial stability and a return to her previous, less affluent life.
In her second film, Celine Song minimizes drama, continuing to explore the complexities of relationships. She places her characters in the opulent and superficial setting of New York City, where material possessions dictate consciousness.
With years of experience matching the elite, Lucy and her associates understand their clients' standards: attractive appearance, impressive height, sophisticated fashion sense, and an annual income of at least several hundred thousand USD. Behind these criteria lie transactions where emotions become a catalyst for future investments. Some even resort to cosmetic surgery to find a suitable partner. Love becomes a calculated choice, as the character Charlotte admits, accepting a proposal from a match Lucy arranged because it elevates her social standing.
 |
The cast of "Materialists", from left to right: Chris Evans, Dakota Johnson, and Pedro Pascal. Photo: Sony Pictures |
The cast of "Materialists", from left to right: Chris Evans, Dakota Johnson, and Pedro Pascal. Photo: Sony Pictures
According to Variety, while "Materialists" appears to be a romantic comedy, it subverts the genre's conventions. The film avoids romanticizing love, opting for a realistic portrayal of relationships. Song's direction subtly exposes the dark side of this world, prompting reflection without being heavy-handed.
Lucy is portrayed as rational and independent, yet vulnerable. She remains clear-headed in her relationships, knowing what she wants and making decisions that benefit her. To others, she embodies pragmatism. But beneath her cool exterior, Lucy is lost in the world of love.
Earning 80,000 USD annually, she's "just getting by" in New York's elite circles. Reuniting with John, now a waiter, Lucy realizes she still has feelings for him but is hesitant to rekindle their relationship due to financial concerns. A flashback to their fifth anniversary shows a strained date: Lucy desires a luxurious dinner, while John struggles to find parking and incurs extra charges for their late arrival.
Lucy's choice between the two men reflects how society defines happiness through a materialistic lens. Harry embodies the ideal partner: wealthy, handsome, working in investments, and residing in a 12 million USD penthouse. John, despite his charm and sincerity, leads a more challenging life. Lacking wealth, he's perceived as a societal outsider, unlikely to achieve great success.
The cast elevates the film's emotional depth. Dakota Johnson embodies Lucy's composure, letting her eyes, actions, and words guide the viewer. At times, she appears in control, while at others, she's fragile and lost. Chris Evans sheds his "heartthrob" image to portray John, a sincere, ordinary man whose eyes convey his struggles. Pedro Pascal captivates as the suave and smooth-talking Harry.
 |
Lucy and Harry on a date in "Materialists." Photo: Sony Pictures |
Lucy and Harry on a date in "Materialists." Photo: Sony Pictures
The deliberate imagery portrays New York City as a place where individuals struggle to exist amidst societal norms. Parties, restaurants, and luxury apartments appear glamorous yet empty. Lucy is often centered in the frame, emphasizing her loneliness.
The film has garnered critical acclaim. Variety praises "Materialists" as a noteworthy film, with Celine Song reaffirming her insightful perspective on the interplay between love, ambition, and modern constraints.
The Chicago Reader highlights Song's ability to depict the difficulties of love without exaggerating the drama. Instead of offering sweetness, the film delves into the gray areas of desire and power.
However, the themes aren't fully explored. While easy to watch, the pacing meanders with repetitive questions about love, marriage, and human worth. On Threads, viewers felt the film lacked the emotional impact of Past Lives, suggesting it should have ended with Lucy and John crashing a stranger's wedding. The extended plot feels forced and less convincing.
Que Chi
