(Heads up: There's an extremely brief discussion toward the end of this episode of a sexual assault plot point in the film. Nothing graphic or detailed, but take care of yourself :)
Show Notes:
This week, Ashby and Coco dive into Celine Song’s sophomore film, Materialists (2025) — a movie so bizarre that it simply had to be discussed. This episode is part film club, part vent session, and part anti-capitalist rant (as always?)!
They reflect on the comparisons between Past Lives and Materialists: two stories of love triangles in which the woman’s choice is about what kind of life she seeks. They break down why the former works so perfectly, and where the second misses the mark.
In this episode, they ask:
EARLY MAN: cheesy narrative device or dangerous, gender essentialist trope?
These casting choices – were we doomed from the start?
When you enter the romcom genre, what deal are you making with the viewer?
What messages was this film trying to send – and what was the message that came through?
What was left out of the film and why does it matter?
Who gets to be the Baxter! (Not Pedro Pascal! Sorry, buddy, you’re too charming.)
Things get a little spicy, but they also express their love of Celine Song. Listen along whether you’ve watched Materialists or not – if you’ve ever dated, this one’s for you.
As always, join us on syllabuspod.substack.com to share your reflections on the discussion and to find some of the podcasts, clips, and reviews we mentioned in the episode.
Stay in the loop on Instagram @syllabusthepod
Want to send an idea or feedback our way? Email us at syllabuspodemail@gmail.com
