‘Materialists’ Movie Streams on HBO Max Nov. 7

Film enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the home release of Celine Song’s latest romantic dramedy, ‘Materialists,’ can mark their calendars: the critically acclaimed movie is set to begin streaming exclusively on HBO Max starting November 7. Following its successful theatrical run, which saw it earn an impressive $104 million worldwide, the A24 production promises to offer viewers a sharp and insightful look into modern relationships and the complexities of the New York City dating scene.

Directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Celine Song, known for her debut feature ‘Past Lives’ (2023), ‘Materialists’ explores themes of love, security, and personal values through a compelling love triangle. The film features a star-studded cast, including Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, bringing to life a narrative that resonates with contemporary anxieties about romance and material desires.

The Premise of ‘Materialists’

At the heart of ‘Materialists’ is Lucy Mason (Dakota Johnson), a successful matchmaker working at an exclusive New York City company named Adore. Lucy prides herself on her ability to pair clients, having facilitated nine marriages, yet she adheres to a personal rule of only dating wealthy men. Her professional expertise, however, becomes entangled with her personal life when she finds herself at a romantic crossroads.

The central conflict emerges as Lucy navigates a burgeoning relationship with Harry Castillo (Pedro Pascal), an affluent and charismatic bachelor who appears to be the ‘unicorn’ – an ideal match on paper, offering material security and a luxurious lifestyle. Simultaneously, her financially unstable ex-boyfriend, John Pitts (Chris Evans), an aspiring theater actor and catering waiter, re-enters her life, stirring up past emotions and a different kind of connection. Lucy is thus caught between the allure of material comfort and the familiarity of a deeper, albeit more challenging, emotional bond. The film delves into her existential questions about her work and what truly constitutes a fulfilling partnership.

Celine Song’s Vision and Direction

Celine Song, who also penned the screenplay, brings a distinctive voice to ‘Materialists,’ building on the critical success of her Oscar-nominated debut, ‘Past Lives’. Her filmmaking often delves into intimacy, identity, and the complexities of modern relationships. Song has drawn comparisons between ‘Materialists’ and “Victorian romance,” noting that it examines the “marriage market” and the enduring economic pressures that influence romantic choices, much like the works of Jane Austen.

The film benefits from Song’s nuanced approach to character development and her knack for naturalistic dialogue. Cinematographer Shabier Kirchner, who also worked on ‘Past Lives,’ captures the contrasting worlds of lavish upper-crust New York and the more modest neighborhoods inhabited by struggling artists, visually reinforcing the film’s central themes. Song’s personal experience working as a matchmaker in New York City also profoundly informed the film’s perspective on dating and the “commodification” of potential partners in the pursuit of love.

Critical Acclaim and Box Office Performance

‘Materialists’ quickly garnered attention following its release, earning a significant $104 million at the worldwide box office. This performance established it as one of the year’s most successful independent films and A24’s third-highest-grossing project.

Critics largely responded positively to the film, with many praising its sharp commentary on contemporary dating culture. One review described it as “a sharp and serious social romantic drama full of telling observations about the way we live now”. Reviewers highlighted its ability to tackle familiar romantic-comedy debates—such as contentment versus passion or money versus happiness—with a fresh and frank perspective. The film has been noted for its thoughtful exploration of perceived value and the emotional, physical, and material costs associated with its pursuit. Despite its analytical lens, many critics found the film ultimately offered a hopeful and earned romanticism.

Streaming on HBO Max: What Viewers Can Expect

With ‘Materialists’ arriving on HBO Max on November 7, audiences who missed its theatrical run, or wish to revisit Celine Song’s latest work, will have the opportunity to delve into its intricate narrative. The streaming release allows the film to further establish its place as an unconventional yet impactful entry in the romantic drama genre.

Viewers can anticipate a film that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. ‘Materialists’ is poised to spark conversations about the true nature of connection in a world often driven by superficial metrics. It invites introspection into the choices individuals make in their pursuit of love, challenging the notion that happiness can be solely measured by material success or social standing.

Conclusion

‘Materialists’ stands as a testament to Celine Song’s evolving vision as a filmmaker, offering a nuanced and engaging exploration of love in the modern era. With its compelling performances from Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, and a narrative that expertly intertwines romance with sharp social commentary, the film provides ample food for thought. Its arrival on HBO Max on November 7 is an anticipated event for those seeking a romantic drama that dares to delve deeper than surface-level sentiments, prompting reflection on what we truly value in our relationships and in ourselves.