In this episode, Alex Heeney digs into Celine Song's Materialists, a film about Lucy, a matchmaker struggling with her own love triangle. Will Lucy (Dakota Johnson) choose love — in the form of her poor ex John (Chris Evans) — or money with eligible bachelor Harry (Pedro Pascal)? And can love and money even co-exist?
With its charming cast, elegant blocking, and standout sound design, Materialists could have been a sharp, class-conscious rom-com.
But for all its promise, it ends up skimming the surface.
You will hear:
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What works well in the film, including the visual storytelling and sound design
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Where the film struggles, especially with its thin characterization and reluctance to fully engage with class and money
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Comparisons with other works, such as Gossip Girl (2007–2012) and Patricia Rozema's Mansfield Park (1999), that tackle similar themes with more depth
Links Mentioned:
🎟️ Reel Ruminators: http://seventh-row.com/reelruminators
🎥 Guide to One of the Best Films of 2024: seventh-row.com/guide
📚 Kelly Reichardt ebook: http://reichardtbook.com
Referenced Episodes:
Ep 137: Luca Guadagnino's Challengers
TIFF 2024 Ep 7: Luca Guadagnino's Queer
Ep. 172 and 173: Jane Austen Wrecked My Life — a film that delivers more fully on the promise of a smart, satisfying modern rom-com.
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