Embodiments described herein relate to electrochemical cells with one or more electrodes coupled directly to a film material, and methods of making the same. In some embodiments, an electrochemical cell includes a first electrode material disposed on a first current collector, wherein the first current collector is coupled to a first non-conductive film. In some embodiments, a first tab is coupled to the first current collector. The electrochemical cell further includes a second electrode material capable of taking up or releasing ions during operation of the electrochemical cell. The second electrode material is coupled directly to a second non-conductive film. A second tab is electronically coupled to the second electrode material. A separator is disposed between the first electrode material and the second electrode material. In some embodiments, the second tab can be coupled directly to the second electrode material.