Materialists

If you're into romantic comedies with a bit more bite and brains, Materialists might be right up your alley. Written and directed by Celine Song (of Past Lives fame), this 2025 film dives into the glitzy, emotionally tangled world of modern dating in New York City. It stars Dakota Johnson as Lucy Mason, a former actress turned high-end matchmaker who’s great at finding love for others but not so much for herself. Things get complicated when she finds herself caught between her charming, wealthy new flame (played by Pedro Pascal) and her struggling actor ex (Chris Evans), who still holds a piece of her heart.

Set against the backdrop of NYC’s luxury dating scene, Materialists explores themes of love, ambition, and the sometimes uncomfortable intersection of romance and money. It’s not your typical rom-com—there’s a darker, more introspective edge here. The film doesn’t shy away from the messiness of relationships, especially when personal values clash with societal expectations.

The cast is stacked with talent. Dakota Johnson brings a mix of vulnerability and sharp wit to Lucy, while Chris Evans and Pedro Pascal each offer their own brand of romantic appeal. Supporting performances from Zoë Winters, Marin Ireland, and others round out the ensemble nicely. The film also features a stylish soundtrack, with original music by Daniel Pemberton and songs from Japanese Breakfast and Baby Rose, adding to its modern, moody vibe.

Critics mostly gave it a thumbs up, praising its mature take on romance and the strong performances. It’s been called everything from “a sly, charming romance” to “a sharp and serious social romantic drama.” That said, not everyone was sold—some felt the film lost steam in the second half or struggled with tonal shifts. A few critics even called it one of the year’s biggest disappointments, citing a lack of chemistry between the leads.

So, who’s going to love this movie? If you appreciate smart, emotionally complex stories about relationships—and don’t mind a little social commentary with your love triangles—Materialists is worth checking out. But if you’re looking for a light, feel-good rom-com with a tidy ending, this one might feel a bit too real. Either way, it’s a conversation starter, and definitely one of the more ambitious romantic dramas of the year.