Real Matchmaker's Blunt Take on 'Materialists': 'I've Fired Employees for Less!'

When Real Life Meets Reel Life

In a world where movies often romanticize professions, the new film Materialists strives to paint a realistic, albeit dramatic, picture of the matchmaking industry. Dakota Johnson stars as Lucy, a cynical Manhattan matchmaker swept into a complex love triangle. However, when New York City’s real-life matchmaker Maria Avgitidis saw the film, she was left unimpressed by its portrayal of her beloved industry.

A Misguided Mirror

“Watching Materialists was like watching a funhouse mirror version of my life,” Avgitidis remarked. Despite the film’s attempt to highlight modern dating’s complexities, she feels it misrepresented the dedication and authenticity that true matchmaking entails. From the superficial notes depicted to the stereotype of chasing clients, Avgitidis couldn’t find a reflection of her actual practices.

Busting Matchmaking Myths

The film suggests a matchmaking world filled with emotional roller coasters and celebratory cakes. In contrast, Avgitidis describes a more grounded and professional approach: “Clients rarely meet in the office these days,” she said. Instead, the intimate experience of matchmaking is often more about understanding individuals than throwing automated algorithms at compatibility issues.

Skills Beyond the Silver Screen

Materialists also highlights the fictional fantasy of mixing personal feelings with professional endeavors. “Our role is more like that of a community builder,” explained Avgitidis, noting how true matchmakers connect deeply with their clientele, steering them towards successful relationships without stepping into personal drama zones.

‘I’ve Fired Employees for Less’

When Lucy, portrayed as a successful but emotionally detached matchmaker, fails to dive deep into her clients’ lives, Avgitidis finds this a critical misunderstanding. “I saw the notebook scene,” Avgitidis recounted, “and my immediate thought was, ‘This is a fireable offense.’”

According to People.com

According to People.com, Materialists may stir multiple interpretations about the world of matchmaking, but for industry insiders like Maria, the film’s attempt at reflection falls dramatically short.

In the end, Maria Avgitidis hopes viewers will recognize the film for what it is: a dramatized narrative rather than a documentary. For those seeking true love, understanding both the joys and challenges of real matchmaking, not just those on the big screen, is key.