Today : Mar 19, 2025
Arts & Culture
19 March 2025

A24's 'Materialists' Explores Love Triangle With Dakota Johnson

The romantic drama features Chris Evans and Pedro Pascal alongside Johnson in a story of modern matchmaking challenges.

A24's highly anticipated film 'Materialists', featuring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, is set to hit theaters on June 13, 2025. The trailer, released on March 18, 2025, showcases a narrative that spins around Lucy, played by Johnson, a young, ambitious matchmaker in New York City, grappling with her own love life while trying to guide others towards theirs.

The plot thickens as Lucy finds herself at the heart of a complicated love triangle, torn between her perfect match, Randy (Pascal), who is wealthy and charming, and her imperfect ex, John (Evans), who still has a place in her heart. In a particularly poignant moment captured in the trailer, Evans' character attempts to win Lucy over, asking, "When I see your face, I see wrinkles and children that look like you. So where does that leave us?" This line highlights the contrasting paths her two suitors represent, delving into themes of romance and responsibility.

'Materialists' marks the second feature film from writer and director Celine Song, whose debut film 'Past Lives' earned critical acclaim and nominations for multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay. The upcoming film not only continues Song's collaboration with A24 but also promises to explore the complexities and awkwardness of love in a modern context.

As Lucy navigates her matchmaking profession, her confidence takes a hit when confronted by reality. She reflects, "We promise them love, but the math doesn’t add up," signaling her struggles with both her clients' expectations and her emotional entanglements.

Alongside the central narrative, the film also paints a humorous portrait of the matchmaking process through Lucy's interactions with her quirky clients, who come with their unique demands and often unrealistic expectations. This mix of comedy and emotional depth adds a relatable layer to the storyline.

The film’s star-studded cast features not just the leading trio but also notable performances from Marin Ireland, Zoë Winters, Dasha Nekrasova, and Louisa Jacobson, enriching the dynamic of Lucy's world.

Johnson, who has been busy with other projects like 'Madame Web' and 'Cha Cha Real Smooth', illustrates the character of Lucy with both wit and vulnerability. Chris Evans, known for his roles in 'Red One' and 'The Avengers', brings a nuanced performance as a character who embodies both charm and the complexities of past relationships. Meanwhile, Pedro Pascal, whose resume includes 'The Mandalorian' and the upcoming 'Fantastic Four: First Steps', rounds out the ensemble with his portrayal of a wealthy suitor who represents success and stability.

As the film approaches its theatrical release, there’s significant buzz surrounding its potential impact. The blend of emotional storytelling, humor, and engaging performances has positioned 'Materialists' as a must-watch summer romance. With the backdrop of a bustling New York City, the film seeks to capture the intricacies of modern relationships against a city known for both its ambition and its romance.

'Materialists' joins A24’s slate of notable upcoming films, including 'Death of a Unicorn' and 'Warfare', which demonstrate the studio's commitment to rich, character-driven narratives. As film enthusiasts await its release, 'Materialists' promises to deliver both laughs and heartfelt moments that resonate with anyone familiar with the trials and tribulations of love.

Mark your calendars for June 13 when 'Materialists' lands in theaters, with expectations high for another A24 gem in the realm of romantic drama.