In the latest cinematic venture from A24, Dakota Johnson steps into the role of Lucy, a savvy New York City matchmaker caught in a personal romantic conundrum. The film, Materialists, directed by the talented Celine Song—who has quickly become a notable voice in the film industry—features a storyline that dances between the rich hues of romance and the sharp edges of life’s realities. Alongside Johnson, the film stars Chris Evans and Pedro Pascal, thrusting audiences into a dynamic love triangle full of tension and charm.
Johnson’s character, Lucy, is a professional whose life revolves around crafting romantic futures for others, yet she finds herself tangled in her own romantic predicament. At the heart of her dilemma is a choice between a prosperous suitor played by Pedro Pascal and her rugged, imperfect ex portrayed by Chris Evans. Viewers catch a glimpse of the emotional depth when Evans’s character tries to rekindle their relationship with the line, “When I see your face, I see wrinkles and children that look like you.” Meanwhile, Lucy’s journey is also one of self-discovery, as she questions her ability to matchmake while grappling with disillusionment: “We promise them love, but the math doesn’t add up.”
The creative brio of writer-director Celine Song shines prominently in Materialists. Her collaboration with A24 continues with this film, following her previous success with Past Lives, a critically acclaimed film that earned her Oscar nominations for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. Song’s adept storytelling and character-driven narratives are a signature that resonates with audiences, much like her contributions to the Prime Video series The Wheel of Time.
Under the production expertise of David Hinojosa, Christine Vachon, and Pamela Koffler, Materialists promises to be a noteworthy addition to the romantic drama genre. Fans of the cast will note Johnson’s steady rise through films like Madame Web, Am I OK?, and Cha Cha Real Smooth, while Evans is fresh off his collaboration with Dwayne Johnson in the holiday spectacle Red One. As for Pascal, this multifaceted actor continues to command attention with roles in Gladiator II and the Marvel blockbuster The Fantastic Four: First Steps, not to mention his compelling performances in The Mandalorian and The Last of Us.
Producing such a film opens discussions about modern romance, the intersections of love, and the stark reality that life doesn’t always align with fairytale endings. Materialists unspools its narrative with poise, bolstered by a powerful ensemble cast and the deft hand of Celine Song, leaving audiences to ponder the complexities of personal relationships.
Closing Credits
As Materialists graces theaters on June 13, audiences and critics alike anticipate a film that not only entertains but challenges perceptions of love in a bustling urban setting. Keep an eye on Celine Song’s trajectory—her compelling storytelling and partnership with A24 continue to deliver narratives that resonate far beyond the screen. With its intriguing plot and stellar cast, Materialists is poised to be a thought-provoking addition to the year’s cinematic highlights.
