Pedro Pascal is the main reason I wanted to watch the new Celine Song-directed romantic comedy Materialists. The one where Dakota Johnson plays Lucy, a successful New York City matchmaker torn between two love interests.

The good news is, there are no bad performances, and I enjoyed the conversations that revealed the amusing wants and expectations of those who enlist matchmakers. But, if I were forced to pick my favourite scenes overall? There’s absolutely no contest. It’s when Johnson and Pascal are on screen together. I particularly love the conversation where the ‘You can do better than me’ statement comes up.

The not-so-great news is, there really isn’t much else to praise beyond the above, because, unfortunately, I barely cared about the romance between Lucy and her ex, John (Chris Evans), which says something about the story edit. And, admittedly, maybe a little something about how I wanted more Pascal screen time.

Additionally, though I understand the reason for the caveman/cavewoman opening scene, I can’t say I liked it. All it did was keep me away from the main event, like a disappointing opener to a stand-up comedy show featuring the brilliant headliner you’re there to see.

Materialists is one you watch if the aforementioned highlights appeal. Just don’t expect too much else.

Have you already seen Materialists? Perhaps you’re a bigger fan than I am.

Happy Film loving,

G

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