Dakota Johnson‘s “Materialists” Faces lukewarm Reception, Reigniting Debate Over Star’s Role Choices
Los Angeles, CA – August 13, 2024 – Dakota Johnson’s latest film, “Materialists,” opened in US cinemas today to a muted response, continuing a pattern of high-profile projects failing to capitalize on the actress’s undeniable off-screen charisma. The film, directed by Marie Castille landmark and starring Chris Black as Johnson’s co-star, currently holds a 62% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 35 reviews. This follows the disappointing performance of 2023’s “Madame web,” marking the second consecutive summer where a Johnson-led film has underperformed at the box office.
The situation raises a broader question about the industry’s tendency to miscast talented actors, and specifically, how to best utilize Johnson’s unique strengths. While she’s garnered critical acclaim for autonomous projects like “Suspiria” (2018) and “The Peanut Butter Falcon” (2019), Johnson has repeatedly found herself at the center of commercially unsuccessful, critically panned blockbusters.
Johnson has become somewhat notorious for her association with “Razzie”-winning films.She has received three Golden Raspberry Awards, including one specifically for her performance in “Madame Web.” The Razzies, while frequently enough considered tongue-in-cheek, can reflect broader public dissatisfaction with a film. Despite the negative attention, johnson has consistently demonstrated a self-deprecating humor regarding her less successful projects, openly poking fun at “Madame Web” in numerous interviews.
However,recent appearances outside of film roles have highlighted a different side of Johnson – one brimming with wit and authenticity. Her guest spot on the YouTube series Hot Ones, hosted by Sean Evans, was lauded as a standout episode, showcasing her playful personality while navigating increasingly spicy chicken wings. Similarly, a joint interview with actor Pedro Pascal for vogue, conducted by Giles Hattersley, and a lie detector test interview with Vanity Fair, led by Lie Johnsson, generated viral moments, demonstrating her ability to be both engaging and enigmatic. Johnson has previously acknowledged a penchant for playfully misleading the press, a skill that adds to her intriguing public persona.
This contrast – between her captivating interview presence and her roles in underwhelming films – is a recurring theme in discussions about Johnson’s career.Other actors, including Keke Palmer and Jennifer Lawrence, have similarly struggled to find roles that fully leverage their comedic timing and natural magnetism.However, few are as consistently miscast as Johnson, whose distinctive qualities and clear limitations seem to be overlooked by casting directors.
A notable aspect of Johnson’s career is her consistent focus on film. Her only meaningful television role was a brief stint on the 2012-2013 sitcom Ben and Kate, created by Dana Fox. while many actors have embraced television as a platform for more nuanced and challenging roles, Johnson has remained committed to the big screen. This strategy has successfully positioned her as a traditional “movie star,” avoiding the association with the rapidly expanding world of streaming content, but it also means she relies solely on film opportunities to showcase her talent.
Key Details Not in Original Article:
“Materialists” Director: marie Castille Landmark
“Materialists” Co-Star: Chris Black
“Materialists” Rotten tomatoes Score (as of Aug 13, 2024): 62% based on 35 reviews. “Suspiria” Release Year: 2018
“the Peanut Butter Falcon” Release Year: 2019
“Hot Ones” Host: sean Evans
“Vogue” Interviewer: Giles Hattersley
“Vanity Fair” Interviewer: Lie Johnsson
“Ben and Kate” Creator: dana Fox
Specific mention of the film’s opening date: August 13, 2024.
