Chris Evans delivers his most relatable performance in Materialists, a romantic drama that challenges typical depictions of love and relationships, now showing in theaters. Taking on the role of John, a struggling actor trying to find his way in New York City, Evans moves away from his superhero legacy with a grounded, emotional portrayal that has surprised many of his fans.
Evans Presents a Grounded, Nuanced Character in ‘Materialists’
In Materialists, Evans steps into the shoes of John, an aspiring actor who juggles waiting tables at a catering company to pay his bills while chasing his big break. His character‘s authenticity is emphasized through personal hardships: John still lives with roommates and worries about his perceived shortcomings, especially after being left by his girlfriend, Lucy, played by Dakota Johnson. Lucy’s departure stems from her disappointment in John’s lack of financial stability, which pushes her toward a new partner, Harry—a wealthy financier brought to life by Pedro Pascal.
The film immerses viewers in the stark contrasts between John’s modest lifestyle and Harry’s opulence, including an apartment worth millions in New York City. Lucy herself is depicted as a matchmaker who makes judgments based on potential, highlighting the personal pressures John feels as he measures himself against Harry’s privilege. These class and career dynamics set the stage for a romantic story that avoids clichés and explores deeper themes of self-worth and authenticity.
Often recognized for his comedic timing in films like Scott Pilgrim vs. The World or his more iconic turn as Steve Rogers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Evans here makes bold artistic choices and pokes fun at the archetypes he used to embody. With John’s journey, Evans conveys not just humor and wit, but a vulnerability that reflects the everyday struggles many face.
John’s Character Arc Resonates With Viewers
The script, written and directed by Celine Song, allows Evans to bring emotional complexity to John, especially as he tries to rediscover his own worth. Initially, John is hampered by doubts—questioning whether he can ever create the stable environment he believes Lucy desires. Ultimately, it is his honesty and integrity that make him stand out. As the story progresses, Lucy finds herself leaning on John when her relationship with Harry begins to unravel, and Evans delivers both comfort and strength in scenes dealing with real-life issues and emotional turmoil.
Key moments in the film are told through flashbacks that reveal why John and Lucy’s romance faltered in the first place. One argument centers on John’s unwillingness to pay for parking—a seemingly trivial detail that, in truth, points to deeper conflicts and long-standing insecurities. Previously preoccupied with meeting Lucy’s expectations, John became emotionally distant. However, as time passes, both characters are given the space to reflect and grow, rekindling their bond with greater maturity and understanding.
Materialists employs extended conversations and long, unbroken scenes—a stylistic choice reminiscent of Song’s earlier work in Past Lives. These moments provide Evans with the space to shine, particularly during a key monologue where John admits, with profound sincerity, that the only certainty in his life is his love for Lucy. Rather than feeling scripted, Evans’ performance is marked by genuine emotion, aligning closely with the film’s themes on the unpredictability of real love and the difficulty of letting go.
While Evans’s post-Marvel projects have received mixed reviews, with films like Red One and Ghosted failing to connect on the same level, Materialists stands out. Here, he demonstrates his range as an actor, eliciting empathy and genuine responses from the audience through a character that feels deeply lived-in and relatable.
Notable Cast Brings Depth to the Story
Joining Evans are Dakota Johnson as Lucy and Pedro Pascal as Harry, both adding depth to the film’s portrayal of complex relationships. Johnson’s Lucy is a matchmaker who finds herself as caught in societal pressures as John, while Pascal’s Harry represents the allure and limitations of material success. Their performances, paired with Evans’s nuanced approach, create a dynamic ensemble that enables a rich exploration of what it means to love, to compete, and to heal.
Materialists is currently in theaters, attracting audiences interested in emotionally layered romance films set against the authentic backdrop of New York City. By drawing on the realities of post-Marvel career moves and blending humor with heartfelt moments, Chris Evans’s portrayal in Materialists presents a refreshing turn for the actor and a resonant depiction of modern relationships.
