Materialists Is More Than A Love Triangle Story
Celine Song has done it again! Her new romance film Materialists follows New York City matchmaker Lucy (Dakota Johnson) as she faces two potential love interests — dream man Harry (Pedro Pascal) and her ex boyfriend John (Chris Evans).
The story is way deeper than just your typical love triangle. Song does an amazing job creating films that completely flip the switch on the romance genre and this film does just that. Johnson is a magnetic romantic lead, with Pascal and Evans both doing a solid job in their respective roles. I was instantly hooked by their performances and couldn’t take my eyes off the screen.
Lucy is really good at her job as she’s responsible for nine marriages, but begins questioning everything when she learns one of her clients Sophie (Zoe Winters) has been assaulted on a date. The very topic of assault in this film is a powerful one, especially when Lucy’s boss explains that “this is a risk in the dating world” and Lucy makes it clear that she doesn’t prioritize her job over her client’s safety. She genuinely wants to help Sophie. When Sophie calls Lucy because her assaulter is outside her apartment, the two have a heart to heart discussion about finding love — with Lucy reiterating that Sophie’s soulmate is still out there. Both of these scenes shed light on a heavy topic that is a reality for many people and a real fear someone might have before going on a date with a stranger.
The dating word is full of unknown things and, if the film teaches you anything, it’s that the relationships you form are complex and the choices you make directly affect the type of life you’re going to live. Is love transactional? Is it about who checks your boxes? Is it about the one who will love you for you? All of these questions are brought up in the film and makes the viewer reflect on what love, marriage, dating, and relationships really mean to us as humans. The connections Lucy has in the film help her realize how she views love. Ultimately, Lucy chooses John to go through life with as he expresses he’s always loved her, acknowledges his pitfalls, and wants to be better for her. The ending moment is chef's kiss as he proposes to her with a makeshift daisy flower ring.
Materialists is an emotionally rich film that tackles serious issues, while also questioning the transactional nature of modern relationships. With standout performances and a heartfelt, reflective narrative, it challenges viewers to rethink what love truly means, ultimately ending on a tender, hopeful note.
Materialists is out now in theaters.
