Materialists Movie Review: Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, Pedro Pascal's Rom-Com Is Sweet But Slightly Predictable

Critically acclaimed Past Lives director Celine Song returns with another heartwarming romantic drama. This time, she brings together Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal for a charming rom-com. While the trailer hinted at another Oscar-worthy film, the audience may want to lower their expectations before buying the tickets. Unlike her poignant debut, this movie leans more toward a feel-good and lighthearted experience, which only hopeless romantics might appreciate. Don’t expect grand gestures or shocking twists, just a beautifully messy love story that gently tugs at the heart.

Dakota Johnson stars as Lucy, a successful matchmaker for singles in their late 30s and 40s who seem completely clueless about online dating. Thanks to her "razor-sharp instincts and eagle eye" for compatibility, she’s turned nine first dates into lifelong commitments. But while she’s busy fixing everyone else’s love lives, can she confront her own fears about happily-ever-after?

Enter Harry (Pedro Pascal), our prince charming, or rather, unicorn. He’s handsome, charming, tall (with a twist), and always knows exactly what to say to woo both Lucy and the audience. Most importantly, he’s "mind-numbingly, absurdly, achingly rich"—a non-negotiable on Lucy’s checklist. Caught in the middle of this sparkling new romance is Lucy’s ex, John (Chris Evans), a 37-year-old cater-waiter who’s broke but still chasing his dream of becoming an actor.

Will our main character choose the finance guy who lives in a $12 million penthouse or go back to her loser boyfriend who can barely afford $850 rent for his shared flat and $25 meals on anniversaries?

Johnson’s Lucy specialises in decoding personalities and summing them up in a single sentence. Ironically, the same could be said about her character. Simply put, there’s not much depth to this therapy-needing girl boss who’s terrified of “marrying poor.” But thanks to Dakota’s phenomenal acting chops, she makes it all worth watching. She owns every frame, elevating even dull writing into something charming and watchable. Her charisma oozes through the screen, making it easy to “fall in love” with her. That said, the constant underselling of herself is so overdone it becomes frustrating. So much so that you start to believe she really isn’t good enough as a person.

Our 6'1 finance guy, Pedro is exactly what you expect him to be. Even amidst the messy melancholy, his presence shines. His chemistry with Dakota is pure fire. Chris Evans, on the other hand, is effortless and sweet. The good-for-nothing ex almost earns your sympathy and maybe even your respect by the interval… almost.

Despite the genius-level casting, the film stumbles where it matters most. The writing is weak, to say the least. Just 15 minutes in, and the ending becomes painfully predictable. An unexpected twist briefly tries to add depth to the story, but it’s brushed aside so quickly that you’re left wondering if it was ever necessary. The characters lack proper arcs and aren't given enough material to truly showcase their potential, but somehow, it still manages to sail through.

Celine Song once again takes the director’s chair, and owns it. Every frame looks meticulously crafted. From the warm glow of fairy lights to flushed cheeks and the unspoken tension between characters, everything is captured with subtle beauty and intention.

All said and done, this sweet romantic comedy (if it can even be called that) may be predictable, but it's worth your time if you're a hopeless romantic who believes that “marriage is a deal, but love has to be on the table.” It’s warm, comforting, and far from extraordinary, which is exactly what makes it perfect for a one-time watch.

We give it 3/5 stars.