An attempt at a cynical romcom

WHILE it largely misses the mark in terms of execution, Materialists stands out because of the lightness with which it displays cynicism towards love in late-stage capitalism. It straddles the boundary between typical romantic comedy tropes and a yearning to tell a story of something more.

- By Brontë H. Lacsamana Reporter

Here, director Celine Song does not depict a romanticized view of New York. Dating in the big city is rife with materialistic mathematics, akin to business deals, and unrealistic standards. It's fascinating to think about, especially given the director's own personal experience as a matchmaker.

Materialists follows the story of Lucy (played by Dakota Johnson), a young matchmaker in New York City, whose successful career doesn't translate into real life romance.

In a series of chance encounters and coincidences, she finds herself torn between the perfect match Harry (Pedro Pascal) and her imperfect ex John (Chris Evans).

The film would have been fine if it were not tonally weird coming from such a mismatched set of actors at its center.