Celine Song’s Materialists is an exceptionally grown-up and emotionally perceptive romantic drama, one that reconsiders what modern love means without succumbing to typical genre conventions. The film benefits greatly from three remarkable performances; Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal display a palpable chemistry that feels genuine, complex, and deeply moving. Song’s script examines with careful detail the transactional aspects of dating today, where intangible qualities like tenderness and openness often struggle against an increasingly long list of requirements relating to finances, social standing, and political beliefs. Factors such as wealth, physical appearance, stature, political views—even seemingly unimportant things like hair texture—are considered as potential determinants of compatibility. However, through quiet moments, meaningful looks, and conversations that resonate deeply, Song reminds us that love, in all its flawed and mysterious form, defies measurement. From a technical standpoint, Materialists is an example of subtle filmmaking. There’s hardly any music present, which allows every pause, every breath, and every hesitant word to carry significant emotional weight. The cinematography makes the deliberate choice to focus on those listening rather than speaking, giving viewers unique access to unspoken feelings and reactions that words can't fully express. Extended periods of silence create not only tension but also a distinct connection between the characters. The film builds its emotional impact without relying on artificial dramatic moments, making the ultimate decisions made by Johnson’s character feel natural. Song resists offering simple explanations; there is no moralizing or clear victor in the romantic relationships depicted. Whether one pursues love despite its imperfections, as seen with the Dakota and Evans pairing, or chooses a partner who appears ideal but lacks emotional depth, as represented by Pascal's character, Materialists suggests that both paths are acceptable—and equally human. Perhaps the only area where Song’s direction falters slightly is in the recurring client interviews of Johnson’s character, which, though often witty and amusing, occasionally become repetitive. The point about societal expectations regarding dating becomes clear early on, and some of these scenes feel like an explanation of what the film has already conveyed with such nuance. However, this small excess doesn't significantly diminish the overall effect. Materialists is among the best romantic dramas released recently, skillfully avoiding tired tropes and predictable patterns. It’s a thoughtful look at why people fall in love, and how that choice—regardless of how illogical, imperfect, or impractical it may seem—could be the most genuine thing about us. Rating: A-

Source on TMDB