Imagine being a single woman in New York City, faced with a dilemma reminiscent of a classic love song—torn between two charming men: one wealthy and one struggling. In real life, the choice often diverges dramatically from what you’d expect in a film. Rarely do movie heroines capture the frankness of Jane Austen’s Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, who famously saw the beauty of Mr. Darcy’s estate and fell for him.
This is the central theme, albeit never fully realized as a true dilemma, of the delightful yet somewhat anticlimactic romantic comedy-drama Materialists, directed by South Korean-Canadian filmmaker Celine Song. Following her acclaimed debut, Past Lives, this film presents a lighter love triangle that, upon resolution, carries a strangely reflective tone as its lively premise grapples with deeper emotional undercurrents.
Set against the backdrop of Manhattan, we meet Lucy, portrayed by Dakota Johnson, who works as a matchmaker, curating romantic connections for professionals seeking love—or perhaps just a stable partnership. The film opens with an air of affluence; marriage is portrayed as a desirable goal, and Lucy is at the center of a lavish wedding she’s orchestrated for a nervous client marrying a wealthy financier.
The groom’s handsome brother, Harry, played by Pedro Pascal, is a successful hedge fund manager. Tall and debonair in a tailored tuxedo, he takes a genuine interest in Lucy. Early interactions echo the sharp observations of Bret Easton Ellis, as upbeat discussions of wealth unfold in a calm, conversational manner.
Just as Harry makes his move at the wedding, Lucy’s ex-boyfriend John, portrayed by Chris Evans, unexpectedly shows up as a waiter. Despite his current setbacks as a struggling actor living with friends in a cramped apartment, flashbacks reveal the genuine emotional connection he once shared with Lucy—a stark contrast to her more polished present.
The film balances Lucy’s attraction to the sophisticated Harry with her evolving, bittersweet feelings for the endearing but cash-strapped John. Unlike traditional romantic comedies, there’s no showdown between the two suitors; both men respect Lucy’s autonomy and possess qualities that make them worthy of her affection, even as Harry harbors a surprising secret that may intrigue audiences after the credits roll.
Interestingly, Song draws from her past experience as a matchmaker. While Lucy claims she can’t magically create the perfect partner, Song manifests her ideal choices within this narrative. The result is a nuanced exploration of romantic ideals that softens the film’s initial materialism, bringing forth a more introspective perspective on love.
Materialists is set to hit theaters in the UK and Ireland on August 13.
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