Celine Song’s ‘Materialists’: A Dazzling, Soulful Rom-Com That Redefines Modern Love in New York

A New York Love Triangle That Breaks the Mold

Did you know that Celine Song’s Materialists isn’t your average rom-com? Set in the heart of New York City, the film follows Lucy (Dakota Johnson), a sharp and ambitious matchmaker whose job is to pair the city’s elite singles. But when Lucy finds herself torn between her wealthy new client Harry (Pedro Pascal) and her imperfect but deeply familiar ex John (Chris Evans), the story quickly becomes more than a simple love triangle. Song’s script dives deep into the messy realities of modern romance, where love, status, and self-worth are all tangled together. The film’s setting—luxurious apartments, bustling Manhattan streets, and sleek offices—serves as both a playground and a battleground for its characters, reflecting the high stakes and emotional risks of dating in a city obsessed with success.

Critical Acclaim and Box Office Buzz

Materialists opened in North America on June 13, 2025, and immediately captured attention, debuting at #3 at the box office with a strong $12 million opening weekend. That’s the third-biggest opening ever for an A24 film, trailing only Hereditary and Civil War. Critics from The New York Times, Hollywood Reporter, BBC, and more have praised the film for its intelligence, emotional depth, and fresh take on the rom-com genre. While the film scored a B- on CinemaScore and received mixed audience reactions, the performances—especially Chris Evans’—were widely celebrated, with some fans calling it his best work to date. On Rotten Tomatoes, Materialists holds an impressive 85% critic score and 69% audience score, reflecting its polarizing but impactful presence in theaters.

Celine Song’s Unique Voice: From Past Lives to Materialists

If you loved Past Lives, you’ll recognize Song’s signature style in Materialists: a blend of sharp observation, emotional honesty, and cultural nuance. Song, who moved from South Korea to Canada as a child and later became a playwright in New York, draws on her own experiences to explore the complexities of love and identity. Unlike the semi-autobiographical Past Lives, Materialists is set entirely in the American context, with Hollywood stars at the center. Song’s background as the daughter of Korean director Song Neung-han and her own journey as an immigrant artist give her films a rare depth and authenticity that resonates with audiences worldwide.

A Rom-Com That Dares to Ask: What’s Your Value?

Materialists isn’t just about finding the right person—it’s about questioning the very idea of ‘value’ in relationships. Lucy, the protagonist, views dating through a capitalist lens, assessing potential partners by their ‘market competitiveness.’ The film cleverly satirizes the transactional nature of modern love, where qualities like wealth, youth, and status are weighed like commodities. Yet, Song doesn’t mock her characters; instead, she invites viewers to reflect on their own desires and anxieties. What does it mean to choose love over comfort, or vice versa? Is it possible to escape the pressures of conformity and still find happiness? These questions, posed with both humor and gravity, make Materialists a standout in its genre.

Performances That Shine: Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal

The casting of Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal is a masterstroke. Johnson brings a cool, understated intelligence to Lucy, making her both relatable and enigmatic. Evans, as John, delivers what many fans and critics are calling his career-best performance—vulnerable, raw, and deeply human. Pascal’s Harry is charming yet complex, embodying the allure and pitfalls of material success. The chemistry between the leads is electric, and their interactions—sometimes witty, sometimes heartbreaking—anchor the film’s emotional core. Supporting performances from Marin Ireland, Louisa Jacobson, and Zoe Winters add further depth, especially in scenes that explore the consequences of matchmaking gone wrong.

Culture, Class, and the Modern Dating Game

Materialists isn’t afraid to tackle the big issues: class disparity, gender expectations, and the commodification of romance. Song uses New York’s upper-class settings to highlight the gap between aspiration and reality, showing how even the most successful women face pressure to ‘marry up’ or conform to societal norms. The film’s exploration of these themes has sparked lively debate among critics and fans alike, with some praising its honesty and others questioning its cynicism. For international viewers, Materialists offers a window into the unique pressures of American dating culture, while also touching on universal anxieties about love, money, and self-worth.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

On social media, Materialists has inspired passionate reactions. Many fans have praised Song’s bold storytelling and the film’s emotional complexity, calling it a ‘refreshingly honest look at modern dating’ and ‘an emotional rollercoaster.’ Chris Evans’ performance, in particular, has generated buzz, with some viewers hoping for Oscar recognition. Others have found the film’s tone challenging, noting its blend of comedy, drama, and social critique. The film’s willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about love and ambition has made it a talking point in online communities, especially among younger audiences navigating similar dilemmas.

Why Materialists Matters: A New Chapter for Korean and Asian Filmmakers

Celine Song’s success with Materialists marks a significant moment for Korean and Asian filmmakers in Hollywood. Following her Oscar-nominated debut, Song has proven that stories rooted in cultural specificity can have universal appeal. Her ability to blend Korean sensibilities with American storytelling traditions sets her apart as a leading voice in contemporary cinema. For international fans, Materialists is more than just a movie—it’s a cultural event that challenges stereotypes, sparks conversation, and expands the possibilities of what a romantic comedy can be. If you’re looking for a film that’s as smart as it is entertaining, Materialists is a must-see.

The Verdict: Should You Watch Materialists?

If you’re tired of formulaic rom-coms and want a film that’s both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging, Materialists is for you. With its stellar cast, sharp writing, and fearless exploration of modern love, Celine Song’s latest is poised to become a classic for a new generation. Whether you’re a fan of her earlier work or new to her films, Materialists offers a fresh, honest, and deeply moving look at what it means to love—and be loved—in a material world.