In Materialists (2025), director Celine Song (Past Lives) takes viewers on a glittering ride through the fast-paced, high-stakes world of luxury, love, and social ambition in New York City. With a sharp eye for emotional nuance and an elegant narrative style, Song weaves a story that is as much about identity and desire as it is about class and capitalism.
A Modern Romance with a Twist
At the heart of Materialists is the character of Lucy, a captivating luxury real estate agent in Manhattan, portrayed with charm and complexity by Greta Lee. Lucy isn’t just selling properties—she’s selling a lifestyle, and she knows exactly how to navigate the dreams and illusions of New York’s elite. Her latest client is a tech billionaire, played by Chris Evans, whose presence in her life reignites an inner conflict when Lucy’s ex-boyfriend (Teo Yoo) reappears, drawing her back to a past she thought she had outgrown.
What unfolds is a clever romantic triangle that explores not only emotional connections but also the currency of power, success, and self-worth. Song uses the romantic comedy genre as a mirror to reflect modern obsessions with wealth and status, making Materialists both entertaining and quietly subversive.
Smart, Stylish, and Satirical
Visually, the film is stunning—elegant interiors, sweeping city views, and a sophisticated color palette complement the narrative’s focus on material culture. But Materialists doesn’t simply revel in wealth; it interrogates it. The screenplay, also written by Song, is filled with biting wit and sharp observations about gender, ambition, and the transactional nature of modern relationships.
The performances are equally compelling. Greta Lee once again proves her range, blending confidence with vulnerability. Chris Evans brings unexpected depth to his tech mogul character, while Teo Yoo offers a grounded contrast as the soulful ex-boyfriend.
A Reflection of Contemporary Desires
More than a romance, Materialists is a reflection of contemporary urban life—where love is filtered through the lens of lifestyle, and where the pursuit of happiness is tangled up in the pursuit of status. Song’s direction is confident and nuanced, proving that she’s not a one-hit wonder after Past Lives, but a filmmaker with a strong voice and a keen understanding of human behavior.
Conclusion
Materialists (2025) is a charming, insightful, and beautifully crafted film that combines romantic storytelling with sharp social critique. It’s a story for our time—glamorous yet grounded, witty yet wise. For fans of thoughtful cinema with a fashionable edge, this is a must-watch.