On May 8, 2025, A24 unveiled the latest trailer for Celine Song's highly anticipated film, Materialists, which serves as her follow-up to the Oscar-nominated Past Lives. This romantic comedy is set to hit theaters on June 13, 2025, and features a star-studded cast including Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal.
The film's premise centers around a young, ambitious matchmaker named Lucy, played by Johnson, who finds herself caught in a love triangle. She must choose between her perfect match, portrayed by Pascal, and her imperfect ex, played by Evans. This setup promises to explore the complexities of love and relationships in a modern urban setting.
In the trailer, Johnson's character is depicted as a savvy matchmaker who, despite her expertise in connecting others, struggles to make the right choice for herself. The voice-over in the trailer evokes a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of mid-2000s romantic comedies, suggesting a playful and light-hearted tone that contrasts with the more serious undertones of Song's previous work.
Song, who writes and directs the film, aims to capture the essence of classic NYC-set romantic dramedies, a genre that has seen a resurgence in popularity. The film's marketing hints at a self-aware narrative, with character descriptions that add a humorous touch—Evans's character is described as "voted for Bernie," while Pascal's character is labeled as "old money." This playful approach may appeal to audiences looking for both romance and comedy.
Alongside Johnson, Evans, and Pascal, the film boasts a talented supporting cast, including Zoe Winters, Marin Ireland, Dasha Nekrasova, and Louisa Jacobson. The trailer also features an original song by Japanese Breakfast, adding to the film's contemporary vibe.
Reflecting on her experience filming Materialists, Dakota Johnson shared her enthusiasm for working with both Evans and Pascal. During an appearance on the "Happy Sad Confused" podcast, she expressed, "I really loved bonding with Evans and Pascal while filming the feature. It’s one of those special moments, and I think in my work, every moment I felt so inspired and so connected to both of those dudes and everyone on that set. It was a wonderful experience." Johnson's admiration for Song as a director is evident, as she described her as a "masterful filmmaker" and expressed gratitude for her role in the film.
The film's release comes at a time when romantic comedies are experiencing a revival, with audiences eager for stories that blend humor, romance, and relatable characters. Materialists seeks to tap into this trend, offering a fresh take on the genre while paying homage to its roots.
As the release date approaches, anticipation builds around how Materialists will resonate with viewers. Will it successfully balance the elements of romance and comedy, or will it delve deeper into the emotional complexities of relationships? With a talented cast and a promising premise, the film is poised to attract a wide audience.
In addition to Materialists, the lead actors have busy schedules ahead. Johnson is set to star in the open marriage comedy Splitsville, while Evans takes on the role of a BDSM cult leader in Ethan Coen's Honey Don’t!. Pascal is gearing up for his Marvel Cinematic Universe debut as Mr. Fantastic in Fantastic Four: First Steps, alongside other projects that showcase his versatility as an actor.
As fans eagerly await the film's debut, the trailer for Materialists has already sparked conversations about the evolution of romantic comedies and the importance of finding love in a chaotic world. With its mix of humor, romance, and a touch of nostalgia, Celine Song's latest film is set to be a significant addition to the genre.
In summary, Materialists promises to deliver a charming and insightful exploration of love and relationships through the lens of a matchmaker torn between two compelling suitors. As it prepares for its theatrical release, audiences can look forward to experiencing the unique storytelling and character dynamics that Celine Song is known for.
