Nostalgic Charm or Bold Gamble? The 90s Rom-Com Comeback

There’s nothing quite like a nostalgic film trailer that begins with “In a world…” accompanied by a voiceover that feels straight out of the past, reminiscent of those VHS days. This is the vibe of A24’s newest trailer for Materialists, a vibrant tribute to the beloved 90s romantic comedies, featuring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal. However, in 2025, embracing this style is about as daring as sporting cargo pants on a fashion runway.

Let’s be honest. Celine Song’s first film, Past Lives, received accolades at Sundance for its deep intimacy and was even nominated for an Oscar. So, why shift gears to a flashy, trope-filled romantic comedy for her second project? The trailer leans heavily on clichés, featuring a traditional love triangle, an overly meticulous matchmaker, and a “modern love math” approach—all packaged like a script unearthed from the late 90s.

The cinematic choices—voiceovers, melodrama, and rapid editing—mirror the style of Notting Hill. It’s an intentional homage, and the marketing hits hard on this angle. Yet in today’s landscape, where rom-coms are expected to prioritize diversity, authenticity, and emotional depth (think Crazy Rich Asians or To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before), is this retro strategy innovative or simply outdated?

The Evolution of Rom-Coms

Romantic comedies of the 90s followed a strict formula: meet-cute encounters, quirky friends, vibrant city settings, and destiny-driven romances. However, this formula became repetitive. By the 2010s, viewers craved authenticity, representation, and narratives that captured the complexities of modern love. The comeback of the genre now often involves balancing humor with emotional weight while addressing contemporary themes.

Given Celine Song’s background as a matchmaker in real life, Materialists might carry a hint of credibility. She has witnessed love quantified by numbers like income and height, and the film aims to explore the divide between what individuals claim to desire and what genuinely brings them joy. Yet, the trailer seems to prioritize style over substance—at least on the surface.

The Real Question: Will It Appeal to Audiences?

Here’s the catch: A24 seems to believe that nostalgia will resonate, especially with a well-known cast and Celine Song’s indie reputation. However, if Materialists lacks a contemporary twist amid the retro flair, it runs the risk of becoming just another pretty yet forgotten film.

“The trailer successfully embraces the essence of classic romantic comedies. … However, if Song’s directorial prowess shines through, she might cleverly upend these tropes later in the story.”

So, will Materialists emerge as a smart twist on classic themes or merely retread familiar ground? Are you willing to invest your Friday night into a tried-and-true formula with the hope of something surprising? Share your thoughts below.