Red carpets are known for their glitz and glamour, but the occasional unscripted antic is always the show stealer. Likewise, the New York City premiere of Materialists managed to up the ante in the most unexpected way. The buzz is already high for Celine Song’s new romantic comedy, starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal. Yet, nobody quite anticipated the viral spectacle that would unfold before the flashing cameras, even with the ongoing jocose dynamics of the adorable cast. 

As fans and press gathered, the stage was set for a headline-making moment that would have even seasoned premiere-goers doing a double-take.

Pedro Pascal at his luck: Chris Evans and Dakota Johnson leave nothing of him out—not even the kisses

With Pedro Pascal unable to attend in person, his presence was felt in the most heartfelt way possible, as Chris Evans and Dakota Johnson leaned into the fun, making sure the absent star was anything but forgotten. To ensure the actor felt as included as he ever might have, Evans and Johnson, in a move as wild as it was hilarious, planted playful kisses on a life-sized cardboard cutout of their co-star, Pedro Pascal, right on the red carpet.

  This offbeat display perfectly captured the spirit of Materialists, a film already being hailed as a fresh, sharp take on the classic rom-com formula. Johnson stars as Lucy, a savvy New York matchmaker caught in a love triangle with Evans’ ex-boyfriend John and Pascal’s dashing bachelor Harry. The cast’s camaraderie, both on and off the screen, has only fueled anticipation for the film’s release, with fans eager to see how their real-life chemistry translates to the big screen. And, if the premiere’s antics are any indication, audiences can expect a film that doesn’t just play by the rules but gleefully rewrites them.

The onset Materialists has brought back much of the dormant expectations from the romance slash comedy enthusiasts of the 2000’s.

New York City? A career that lands her in romance’s lap? Materialists ringing a bell?

Materialists has been set apart from the cluster of Hollywood ever since its announcement. Its savvy blend of old-school charm and modern sensibility came to notice immediately. Celine Song’s script, inspired by literary classics yet rooted in today’s realities, explores the tug-of-war between romantic ideals and the social currency of wealth and status. The film’s fable-like framing and clever, self-aware humor invites one to laugh at love’s complications while rooting for its messy triumphs. For those who have missed the genre’s sparkle, Materialists feels like a long-overdue invitation to fall in love with rom-coms all over again.

 To add to the cottony trope—think voice-over trailers and messy, lovable characters—as director Celine Song’s playful nods to classic rom-com tropes have audiences buzzing that the golden age of romantic comedies may finally be making its comeback. With its playful red carpet antics and a cast that radiates offbeat charm, Materialists has reignited the spark for rom-com lovers everywhere. The premiere’s headline-grabbing moments are indications of what audiences can expect from a romantic comedy that’s as bold and unpredictable as it is heartfelt, just the kind of cinematic magic fans have been longing for since the genre’s golden era.

What do you think of this hilarious display of affection between the Materialists stars at their premiere? Let us know in the comments below!