Chris Evans discusses feeling third wheel with Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal while working on the romantic drama Materialists, directed by Celine Song. The actor shared humorous insights into his on-set dynamic, explaining the unique bond between his co-stars and its impact on filming.
Working Beside Familiar Faces on Set
As the cast of Materialists began filming, Chris Evans admitted that Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal’s established friendship influenced their interactions. He shared that although the environment was supportive, he felt somewhat on the outside looking in at times because of how close Johnson and Pascal already were as friends. The camaraderie among the group, particularly between the longtime friends, shaped the early days of production.
“I love Dakota and Pedro so much. They’ve been friends for a while, so I felt like I was third-wheeling it a little bit,”
—Chris Evans, actor
Despite these feelings, Evans found the set to be welcoming and warm. Both Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal made efforts to include him, ensuring he felt at home as they worked together to bring Celine Song’s vision to life.
“They just enveloped me. We just enjoy each other’s company so much. I think we’re all really proud of the movie, and that’s always nice,”
—Chris Evans, actor
Materialists Offers a Unique Love Triangle
Celine Song’s approach in Materialists placed Chris Evans, known for his role as Captain America, in a more vulnerable and emotionally open role. He portrays John, a former actor who has shifted to catering, and unexpectedly reunites with his ex, played by Dakota Johnson’s character Lucy. This encounter takes place on the same evening Lucy meets Harry, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, setting up a love triangle with a subtle twist.
Evans explained that while love triangles in film tend to dramatize conflict, Materialists explores the dynamics in quieter ways. His on-screen relationship with Pascal’s character highlights the contrast in what each man offers to Lucy and how their differing backgrounds play into the story.
“We offer such different things in different ways,”
—Chris Evans, actor
“There’s such a hierarchical difference between our statuses… But [Celine] puts it all in a handshake. She puts it all in the hello,”
—Chris Evans, actor
Building Bonds On and Off Set
Though there were not many shared scenes between Evans and Pascal in the film itself, their friendship flourished during production downtime. The entire cast developed a sense of closeness, making the filming experience meaningful beyond their roles in front of the camera.
“Unfortunately, Pedro and I didn’t get much time on set — but we had plenty of time off set,”
—Chris Evans, actor
The Continuing Story for Fans
Audiences eager to witness the chemistry between Chris Evans, Dakota Johnson, and Pedro Pascal can now experience Materialists in theaters. Alongside exploring complex relationships and friendships, the film demonstrates the impact of genuine connections both in narrative and reality, suggesting that off-screen bonds can enhance on-screen portrayals. As viewers engage with this latest drama by Celine Song, the influence of her directorial approach and the cast’s close-knit dynamic will likely be a central topic in discussions going forward.
