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Opinions • Reception
Materialists (2025) Review: Fan and Critic Opinions on Reception and Performance
Dive into the reception of Materialists as we analyze user and critic opinions, focusing on storytelling, performances, and reactions within the context of the franchise. Discover what fans are saying and how critics are responding to this unique matchmaker tale.
June 12, 2025
“Materialists”, directed by Celine Song, has left a significant mark on audiences and critics since its premiere on June 13, 2025. As we delve into the rich tapestry of opinions surrounding the film, we can gain a deeper understanding of its reception. The movie strikes a chord with its exploration of love, self-worth, and the often complicated layers of relationships.
Critics have showered “Materialists” with attention, offering a diverse array of opinions that highlight its strengths and shortcomings. Collider’s review encapsulated this sentiment perfectly, stating, “What Song has done is make an excellent version of those types of romance films from yesteryear, yet one where these characters have depth, layers, and are more considered than we might have received in those films.” This assertion is frequently echoed across reviews, indicating that deep character development is a standout feature of the film—a rarity in the genre.
Conversely, IndieWire provided a contrasting view, describing the film as “cynical, sad, increasingly f***ed up, and often gloriously mean.” This reflection suggests that while “Materialists” has comedic elements, it doesn’t shy away from exploring complex and darker themes, presenting a more multifaceted approach than a typical love story.
Further emphasizing the film’s unique qualities, IGN remarked, “From a distance, Materialists seems like a straightforward love-triangle rom-com, but Celine Song transforms it into a meaningful, introspective drama about self-worth.” This transformation is critical to understanding how audiences are engaging with the film’s emotional depth.
Yet, the reception is not without its criticisms. Slant Magazine perceived the latter part of the film as veering towards traditional romance tropes. They noted that as the story shifts to the dating dilemma faced by Lucy, it begins to mirror more of the expected narratives of the rom-com genre. This blend of innovative storytelling and familiar tropes creates a varied landscape of opinions, inviting viewers to debate the balance between tradition and innovation in “Materialists”.
Audience reactions to “Materialists” reflect an overall positive reception, although the film’s deeper themes have prompted varying interpretations. Many viewers have praised the film for its emotional honesty and relatable portrayal of modern relationships. As one user review succinctly stated, “Materialists is a film that forces you to confront your beliefs about love and connection.” This level of introspection has resonated with many, suggesting a strong alignment between the film’s intent and its audience reception.
However, some audience members felt that certain plot points were predictable, mirroring critiques from Slant Magazine regarding the film’s adherence to rom-com conventions. This combination of heartfelt emotional exploration and familiar romantic dynamics invites both applause and critique.
Viewer sentiment was also echoed in reviews from Entertainment Weekly, where they noted that “Materialists doesn’t offer any easy answers despite delivering on its romantic premise.” This complexity and refusal to simplify difficult emotions is something that many audiences appreciate, elevating the film above traditional romantic comedies. It’s this blend of thematic depth that encourages conversation and engagement among viewers—a testament to the film’s ability to inspire reflection and challenge perceptions.
One of the film’s most compelling aspects is its exploration of love and self-worth, which emerged prominently in various reviews. BBC’s glowing reception highlights this perfectly, saying, “Moving on from its cynical beginning, Materialists takes the long way around to an ending that is decidedly hopeful.” The contrast between its darker themes and ultimately uplifting message provides audiences with a complex viewing experience, one that resonates powerfully and authentically.
Reviewers were keen to point out how the film’s narrative breaks away from conventional romantic formulae. Screen Rant applauded Song’s knack for storytelling, noting that she “has a particular knack for telling stories that break down the walls around our hearts and leave us aching in the best way possible.” This ability to create emotional depth elevates “Materialists,” inviting viewers to engage in critical dialogue about their own experiences with love.
Furthermore, the review from The Associated Press reinforces the film’s authenticity, observing that it is “a smart rom-com that tries to be honest about life and still leave us smiling.” Here, the focus lies on the film’s capacity to invoke laughter while also sparking contemplation, a duality that few romantic films manage to achieve. It is this balancing act of humor and gravity that contributes to its positive reception from diverse audience demographics.
The varied responses from major outlets demonstrate the diverse ways that critics interpret and appreciate Materialists. While some, like Collider and BBC, emphasize depth and emotional resonance, others such as Slant Magazine indicate a possible regression into predictability in its second half. This divergence underscores the subjective nature of film appreciation, where personal experiences and expectations shape critics’ views.
Also notable is the respect offered to Celine Song as a filmmaker. Critics consistently recognize her talent for weaving complex narratives that diverge from typical romantic comedies, as highlighted by IGN’s observation of the film’s introspection and emotional underpinnings. This consistent praise builds a strong case for Song’s emerging reputation in contemporary cinema, aligning her with other notable filmmakers in the genre willing to push boundaries.
These differences in sentiment also reflect broader conversations in film critique about authenticity and relatability in storytelling. The collective admiration and critique surrounding “Materialists” ultimately point to a deep engagement with the emotional and moral questions that resonate within the film—an achievement that sets it apart and fosters ongoing discussion about its themes.
As we conclude our exploration of “Materialists” and its reception, it’s evident that the film has sparked significant dialogue among viewers and critics alike. Its intricate exploration of love, self-worth, and the often-entangled nature of relationships resonates deeply with audiences craving more than surface-level storytelling.
Overall, the film’s ability to weave humor with depth has made it a standout entry in the romantic comedy genre. Responses indicate a nuanced appreciation for its complexities, as seen in the disparity of opinions expressed across various outlets.
This rich tapestry of reviews showcases the film’s potential to inspire discussions about the nature of love and relationships long after the credits roll. For those seeking more insights into “Materialists” and its resonances with audiences, explore further with What’s After the Movie. From comprehensive summaries to engaging quizzes, you’re bound to find more content that brings films to life beyond their on-screen narratives.
Links to Other Movie Sites |
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Metacritic |
Rotten Tomatoes |
IMDb |
TMDB |
Just Watch |
Box Office Mojo |
Letterboxd |
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