Materialists: Not Quite the Match Made in Heaven

Michelle Warmuz, 12 June 2025

Set for release by A24 in the United States on 13 June 2025 and Sony Pictures International distribution on 16 August 2025, Materialists is already setting fans on fire for this long-awaited romantic comedy. Or is it a drama?

Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Pedro Pascal, Chris Evans, and Dakota Johnson, and directed by Celine Song (who also brought us Past Lives), the film is said to be inspired by 1980s classics Broadcast News and Terms of Endearment. Lucy (Dakota Johnson), a money-hungry New York City matchmaker, doesn’t see dating as a hopeful and romantic proposition but rather a valuable financial asset based on traits and compatibility metrics. Lucy’s goal is to connect clients (in her unashamedly practical and transactional way) who are picky about what they seek in compatible relationships.

Midway through the movie, however, a dramatic turn of events sees Lucy and her business under threat as a former client informs her of a date gone wrong in more ways than one. Leaving some critics with mixed feelings, it's undeniable that questions will inevitably arise about the ethical and legal considerations of operating a dating business in today’s society.

It's safe to say that the on-screen chemistry is alive and buzzing, and combined with a challenging plot, rom-com qualities and a good dose of drama, Materialists is a must-see movie.