Deconstructing Desire: An Analysis of Celine Song’s ‘Materialists’

The Unsettling Allure of ‘Materialists’

Celine Song’s ‘Materialists’ is not just a follow-up to her critically acclaimed ‘Past Lives.’ It is a bold interrogation of contemporary romance, a genre that often relies on familiar tropes and predictable endings. Starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, the film has ignited significant debate, not just about the protagonist Lucy’s choice, but about the underlying motivations and societal pressures that influence her decision. The film’s strength lies in its refusal to provide easy answers, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of unease and a desire to delve deeper into its themes.

Beyond the Love Triangle: A Commentary on the “Market” of Love

At first glance, ‘Materialists’ appears to be a classic love triangle. Lucy, a matchmaker for New York City’s elite, is torn between her pragmatic ex-boyfriend, John, and the financially unstable but emotionally resonant Harry. However, the film quickly transcends this trope, delving into the commodification of relationships in a hyper-capitalistic society. Song deliberately positions Lucy within a system that reduces human connection to financial viability, forcing the audience to confront the uncomfortable truth that economic factors increasingly influence romantic choices.

The film portrays dating as a “market,” where individuals are assessed based on their “competitive” value, and marriage is treated as an equation to be solved. This framing is not accidental. It serves as a potent metaphor for the societal pressure to optimize oneself for the dating market, even through invasive and potentially harmful procedures, such as the leg-lengthening surgery subplot. This detail, meticulously researched, underscores the film’s commitment to portraying the anxieties and absurdities of modern dating with piercing honesty.

Lucy’s Choice and the Discomfort of Realism

The ending of ‘Materialists’—Lucy’s decision to return to John—has proven particularly divisive. Many viewers express disappointment, interpreting it as a reinforcement of conventional, even regressive, romantic ideals. However, Song herself has consistently emphasized that the ending isn’t about endorsing a particular relationship but about acknowledging the complexities of human desire and the often-unromantic realities of long-term commitment.

The director’s explanation centers on the idea that Lucy, despite her attraction to Harry, ultimately chooses stability and a shared history. This isn’t presented as a triumphant victory but as a pragmatic decision born from a recognition of the challenges inherent in building a life with someone who lacks financial security. The film doesn’t shy away from the fact that money matters and that ignoring this reality would be disingenuous.

Furthermore, the unraveling crisis involving Lucy’s client, Sophie, and her abusive husband, subtly reinforces this theme. Sophie’s situation serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the vulnerability that can accompany financial dependence within a relationship. Lucy’s choice, therefore, can be seen as a subconscious attempt to avoid a similar fate.

Echoes of the Past, Reflections of the Present

‘Materialists’ consciously draws parallels to classic romantic comedies like ‘When Harry Met Sally…,’ prompting a re-evaluation of those films through a contemporary lens. While ‘When Harry Met Sally…’ explored the possibility of platonic friendship between men and women, ‘Materialists’ asks a more pointed question: can love truly transcend economic disparities in a society obsessed with wealth?

Song’s film also shares thematic resonances with her previous work, ‘Past Lives.’ Both films explore the weight of choices, the lingering power of the past, and the inherent sadness that accompanies the realization that life rarely unfolds as we expect. Both are exquisitely made, character-driven, and rely heavily on dialogue to convey emotional depth. However, ‘Materialists’ distinguishes itself by directly confronting the material conditions that shape our relationships, a departure from the more ethereal exploration of fate and longing in ‘Past Lives.’

The Materialist Critique and its Broader Implications

The film’s title itself is a deliberate provocation. ‘Materialists’ isn’t simply about people who are materialistic; it’s about the pervasive influence of materialism on all aspects of life, including love. Research consistently demonstrates a correlation between materialism and decreased wellbeing, increased anxiety, and diminished self-actualization. The film taps into this cultural anxiety, exposing the emptiness that can result from prioritizing financial success over genuine connection.

The online debate surrounding the ending, often framed as “broke man propaganda,” underscores the film’s success in provoking uncomfortable conversations. It forces viewers to confront their own biases and assumptions about love, money, and the role of societal expectations in shaping our desires. The passionate responses, as Song notes, are a testament to the film’s ability to tap into deeply held beliefs and anxieties.

A Rom-Com Deconstructed

Ultimately, ‘Materialists’ isn’t a traditional romantic comedy. It’s a thoughtful, often unsettling, exploration of love in the 21st century. It doesn’t offer easy answers or a neatly packaged happy ending. Instead, it presents a nuanced and honest portrayal of the compromises, anxieties, and contradictions that define modern relationships. The film’s enduring power lies in its refusal to shy away from the uncomfortable truths about love, money, and the ever-increasing pressure to quantify our worth in a world obsessed with material possessions. It’s a film that stays with you, prompting reflection long after the credits roll—a testament to Celine Song’s ability to craft stories that are both deeply personal and profoundly relevant.

Conclusion: The Enduring Impact of ‘Materialists’

‘Materialists’ is more than just a film; it is a mirror held up to society, reflecting our deepest fears and desires. It challenges us to question the values we hold dear and the choices we make in the name of love and security. By deconstructing the romantic comedy genre, Celine Song has created a work that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. The film’s ability to provoke debate and introspection is a testament to its artistic merit and its relevance in today’s world. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern relationships, ‘Materialists’ serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of honesty, self-awareness, and the courage to confront the uncomfortable truths that shape our lives.