Celine Song Returns with Materialists Starring Evans, Johnson, and Pascal
Acclaimed director Celine Song is back with her second film, Materialists, following the success of her Oscar-nominated debut, Past Lives.
The romantic comedy features an impressive cast, including Chris Evans, Dakota Johnson, and Pedro Pascal.
The film’s trailer, which was released on Monday, introduces audiences to the story of a matchmaker caught between two men — her ideal partner and an ex with unresolved feelings.
Fans have already shared their excitement, with one user commenting, “Pedro Pascal the busiest man in Hollywood right now.” Another joked, “Mr. Fantastic, Madame Web, and Captain America walk into a bar,” referencing the actors’ previous roles in Marvel films.
“Breaking the bot comment thread to say I’m so ready to swoon over Pedro once again,” another Pascal fan wrote, highlighting the growing anticipation for the film.
A Story of Love, Heartbreak, and Choices
In Materialists, Dakota Johnson plays Lucy, a successful matchmaker in New York City.
The trailer opens with Lucy listening to various clients describing their ideal partners. Confident in her abilities, Lucy reassures one woman that “she was going to marry the love of her life.”
Things take a turn when Lucy crosses paths with Pascal’s character — a wealthy and charming man. Their initial encounter seems promising until Lucy’s ex-boyfriend, played by Chris Evans, appears at the same wedding party where he works as a waiter.
Caught between Pascal’s character — described as a “unicorn” — and the familiarity of John (Evans), Lucy begins to question her own understanding of love.
The woman who has spent her career helping others find love now struggles to define her own feelings.
At one point, John asks Lucy, “Why do people marry?” to which she responds, “Because they are lonely and hopeful.” This exchange underscores the emotional complexity at the heart of the story.
Star-Studded Cast and Creative Team
Materialists brings together a talented cast and crew. Alongside Johnson, Evans, and Pascal, the film also features Zoe Winters, Marin Ireland, Dasha Nekrasova, Louisa Jacobson, and Sawyer Spielberg.
Filming for the romantic comedy took place in New York City from April to June 2024. The movie is produced by Christine Vachon and Pamela Koffler for Killer Films, with David Hinojosa of 2 AM also involved in production.
A24 will distribute the film in the United States, while Sony Pictures will handle international distribution. Adding to the film’s appeal, it will feature an original song by Japanese Breakfast.
Celine Song’s Follow-Up to ‘Past Lives’
Song’s directorial debut, Past Lives (2023), was a critical and commercial success, earning over $42 million globally and receiving multiple award nominations, including at the Oscars and Golden Globes.
The romantic drama starred Greta Lee, Teo Yoo, and John Magaro and explored the lives of two childhood friends over 24 years as they navigated their evolving relationship.
Song’s success with Past Lives positioned her as one of the most promising new voices in cinema. Now, with Materialists, she steps into the romantic comedy genre while maintaining her signature emotional depth.
Exploring the Complexity of Modern Relationships
Materialists dives into the contradictions of modern love and relationships.
Lucy’s professional success contrasts with her personal uncertainty, highlighting the gap between understanding love intellectually and experiencing it emotionally.
The narrative raises questions about whether love is about finding the perfect person or embracing imperfection.
The tension between Pascal’s charming character and Evans’ familiar presence reflects the broader struggle between romantic idealism and emotional reality.
Anticipation Builds for June 13 Release
The official trailer has already generated buzz across social media, with fans eager to see the chemistry between Johnson, Pascal, and Evans.
Johnson’s last major project was the Marvel film Madame Web, while Pascal recently completed work on Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2. Evans was last seen in Red One and is expected to return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Pascal is also set to appear in the upcoming Fantastic Four movie, where he will play Reed Richards, the brilliant and flexible leader of the team.
A Major Rom-Com Contender
Directed and written by Celine Song, Materialists blends emotional complexity with humor and romance.
With a talented cast, a rising director, and strong backing from major studios, the film is well-positioned to make an impact at the box office.
Materialists will premiere in theaters on June 13, 2025.
