Materialists: A Sharp Satire on Modern Love, Status, and Self-Worth
Materialists, the upcoming romantic comedy-drama directed by Celine Song (Past Lives), is already creating waves as one of the most anticipated films of the year. Blending high fashion, Manhattan high society, and biting commentary on modern values, the film explores the intersection of wealth, desire, and emotional authenticity in the digital age.
The film stars Dakota Johnson as Lucy, a fiercely ambitious personal shopper navigating the glamorous but hollow world of New York’s elite. Lucy’s relationships—with clients, lovers, and even herself—are shaped by the transactional lens of status and material gain. Her character is not simply superficial; she’s deeply strategic, questioning whether love and ambition can coexist in a culture obsessed with image and consumption.
The ensemble cast features Chris Evans in a surprising turn as a tech billionaire drawn into Lucy’s orbit, alongside Pedro Pascal and Zoë Kravitz, rounding out a cast that oozes charm and charisma. Their interactions sparkle with wit, tension, and philosophical undertones.
Behind the film’s visual identity is a meticulous attention to realism, especially through its production design. Designer Anthony Gasparro and set decorator Amy Beth Silver, both New Yorkers, crafted distinct environments that reflect each character’s socioeconomic background. Lucy’s Brooklyn Heights apartment is stylish yet practical, estimated at $3,200/month—modest but aspirational. In contrast, Pedro Pascal’s character lives in a sprawling $12 million Tribeca penthouse, oozing curated luxury. Chris Evans’ struggling actor resides in a cramped, no-frills Brooklyn bedroom for $850/month, filled with mismatched IKEA furniture and worn-in charm.
This approach grounds the satire in real New York living conditions, elevating the emotional weight of each scene. The spaces feel lived-in, adding depth and credibility to the characters’ choices and conflicts.
Song’s script masterfully balances humor with melancholy, weaving in sharp observations on how capitalism infiltrates even our most personal decisions. With its sleek cinematography, thoughtful set design, and emotionally intelligent writing, Materialists is more than a stylish rom-com—it’s a mirror held up to our increasingly curated lives.
Premiering at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival to standing ovations and early awards buzz, Materialists promises to be both entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you’re drawn to its fashion-forward aesthetic or its deeper message about love in a material world, this film is not to be missed.