Another Simple Favor, the 2025 sequel to the stylish 2018 mystery-comedy A Simple Favor, reunites Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively under the direction of Paul Feig. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Capri, Italy, the film attempts to recapture the original’s blend of dark humor, fashion, and intrigue but delivers mixed results.
Plot Overview
The story picks up with Emily Nelson (Blake Lively), recently released from prison, preparing to marry Dante, a mob-connected Italian businessman. She invites her former best friend, Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick), now a successful true-crime author, to be her maid of honor. As the wedding unfolds, Stephanie becomes entangled in a new web of secrets, betrayals, and a murder mystery involving eccentric family members and sinister mob ties.
Performances
Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively reprise their roles with charisma, maintaining the quirky chemistry that defined the original film. Kendrick’s portrayal of Stephanie brings her signature wit and relatability, while Lively’s Emily exudes style and enigma. However, the film’s increasingly ludicrous tone challenges the depth of their performances.
Direction and Tone
Director Paul Feig leans into a more absurd and campy tone compared to the original. While the film offers eye-catching costumes and exotic settings, it struggles with pacing and coherence. The plot is riddled with implausibilities and lackluster twists, failing to deliver coherent motivation or engaging storytelling.
Cinematography and Music
The film boasts a glamorous aesthetic, with cinematography capturing the allure of Capri and the opulence of high fashion. The musical score complements the film’s tone, enhancing key moments without overwhelming the scenes.
Audience Reception
Upon its release on Amazon Prime Video on May 1, 2025, Another Simple Favor received mixed reviews. Critics praised the performances and visual appeal but criticized the film’s convoluted plot and tonal inconsistencies. Some felt that the sequel lacked the charm and intrigue of its predecessor, with the narrative losing coherence and venturing into absurdity.
Final Verdict
Another Simple Favor offers moments of intrigue and strong performances but doesn’t fully capture the essence that made the original film a standout. While it may serve as light, forgettable entertainment, it ultimately suffers from a weak screenplay filled with forced banter, flat dialogue, and clunky exposition.
Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars
A commendable effort that offers moments of intrigue and strong performances but doesn’t fully capture the essence that made the original A Simple Favor a critical success.
