Anna Daniels
A Stylish Sequel Packed with Mystery
Paul Feig’s upcoming film, Another Simple Favor, is set to kick off the 2025 SXSW Film & TV Festival on March 7. This sequel promises to bring back the stylish, twisted narrative that was a hallmark of its 2018 hit predecessor. The first installment, A Simple Favor, was a successful blend of mystery, dark humor, and sharp social commentary, raking in nearly $100 million against a modest $20 million budget. With beloved stars Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick returning, expectations for the film were high, but Amazon/MGM’s decision to release it directly to streaming on May 1 came as a surprise to many.
The Story Shifts
The initial film centered around Stephanie (Kendrick), a widowed mommy vlogger embroiled in the mysterious disappearance of the captivating Emily (Lively). The sequel takes place during Emily’s lavish wedding to an Italian businessman on the stunning island of Capri, where a murder soon complicates the celebration. Feig’s signature mix of glamour and deceit is back, but will it capture the same sharp humor and thrilling tension as the first film?
The State of Streaming
The choice to skip a theatrical release is disappointing, especially since Feig had hoped for a big-screen rollout after well-received test screenings. Nevertheless, in today’s competitive streaming landscape, platforms like Amazon Prime Video are eager for exclusive content to attract subscribers and increase viewer engagement. Considering how the first film gained popularity on streaming sites, it makes sense for Amazon to retain this sequel for its platform.
The Dynamic Duo
A key attraction of the previous film was the chemistry between Lively and Kendrick. Lively’s effortlessly stylish, morally ambiguous character complemented Kendrick’s endearing yet cunning portrayal. If the sequel can delve deeper into their relationship, possibly introducing fresh themes of trust and deceit, it could become just as captivating as the original.
Does Another Simple Favor Meet Expectations?
Feig has described the film as an engaging blend of Hitchcockian thrills and Gone Girl-esque suspense. If done right, it could emerge as a unique, stylish mystery-comedy that keeps viewers intrigued. However, without the theatrical experience to amplify its visual elements and tension, can it still have the same impact?
Concluding Thoughts
A Simple Favor has an undeniable charm—combining humor with a captivating mystery. Should Another Simple Favor recapture this magic, it could become one of the highlights of 2025, even if it’s premiering from the safety and convenience of our homes.
My Thoughts:
I was drawn to the stylish noir-comedy vibe of the first film. Lively’s captivating performance and Kendrick’s likability balanced perfectly. Their return is thrilling, but I feel a theatrical release would have honored Feig’s energetic style and dark humor even more. Nevertheless, Amazon’s choice seems practical given the market trends.
I’m hopeful! If it replicates the original’s blend of sophistication, humor, and mystery, it might shine as one of the standout streaming originals this year.
What’s your opinion? Should Another Simple Favor have gone to theaters, or is streaming the right move given the current landscape? Share your views with us!
