Celine Song’s Materialists Debuts With Rom-Com Love Triangle In New York

Materialists, directed by Celine Song and starring Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans, is a modern romantic comedy that explores the complexities of love, class, and economic realities in contemporary New York City. The film centers on Lucy, a professional matchmaker who becomes entangled in a love triangle with her wealthy suitor Harry and her less affluent ex, John, portraying dating as a transactional and often cynical experience. Song’s screenplay, informed by her own matchmaking experience, blends sharp social commentary with the aesthetics of classic rom-coms, while challenging traditional romantic tropes through witty and philosophical dialogue. Unlike her Oscar-nominated debut Past Lives, Materialists embraces the love triangle format more explicitly, focusing on Lucy's personal growth and the interplay between materialism and emotional connection. The film’s narrative and style subvert expectations by combining a rom-com exterior with a deeper, thought-provoking examination of modern relationships, classism, and personal worth. Critics have praised the performances and Song’s nuanced approach to the genre, highlighting the film’s balance of charm and critical insight.