Celine Song discusses class, love, and modern dating in her new film ‘Materialists’

Celine Song, director of the critically acclaimed ‘Past Lives,’ is back with her debut romantic comedy ‘Materialists,’ which explores the complexities of modern dating, class divides, and love. The film stars Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans, and tackles topics that are rarely addressed in the genre, such as financial inequality and societal expectations. Set in New York, the movie delves into the challenges faced by Lucy, a high-end matchmaker, as she navigates her relationships with a wealthy suitor and an old flame. Song emphasizes the stark contrast between material wealth and emotional connection, underscoring that ‘Materialists’ is about more than just romance—it’s a critique of the economic system that defines personal worth. Drawing from her own experiences as a matchmaker and her deep empathy for women struggling with societal pressures, Song critiques both the superficiality of modern love and the economic forces that shape it. While ‘Materialists’ is a romance, its focus on the intersection of love and money gives it a unique edge. Song’s previous success with ‘Past Lives’ set high expectations, and her bold shift to a romcom reflects her belief in the power of cinema to spark meaningful conversations about love, dating, and class.