In 2018, A Simple Favor treated audiences to a stylish thriller full of wit, charm, and scandalous secrets. Now, its eagerly anticipated sequel, Another Simple Favor, premiered at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival, welcoming fans back into a darkly comic universe that’s somehow even more irresistible than before. 

Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively slip effortlessly back into their roles as Stephanie Smothers and Emily Nelson, who bond—and clash—over manipulation, secrets, and endless drama. Picking up right where the original left off, the film retains the clever balance of suspenseful thrills and sharp comedic timing that made viewers fall in love in the first place. 

This time around, Stephanie finds herself attending Emily’s over-the-top wedding to a rich Italian businessman. And part of the celebration is a murder mystery and betrayal, as Stephanie becomes entangled in an even deeper web of lies. 

Director Paul Feig understands exactly what audiences crave: witty banter, petty rivalries, and morally ambiguous characters.

But make no mistake, Another Simple Favor doesn’t simply repeat the gimmicks of its predecessor. Instead, the screenplay is sharp, offering new surprises andunexpected twists. Visually, the film maintains its fashionable aesthetic—every scene feels polished and perfectly styled, complemented by a soundtrack you’ll immediately want to add to your playlist.

Kendrick, always delightful in her quirky, energetic way, once again nails Stephanie’s awkward charm. Opposite her, Lively shines as Emily, delivering the character’s signature mean-girl edge and savage comebacks. Together, their chemistry is addictive, glamorous, and, at times, the right amount of scary.

Henry Golding also returns as Sean Townsend, providing a grounded presence amid the chaos, while a handful of new supporting cast members (Allison Janney, Andrew Rannells, Michele Morrone) sprinkle fresh fun into the mix without overshadowing Kendrick and Lively.

It’s rare for sequels to justify their existence, but Another Simple Favor is not just, well, another sequel. If you loved the original, this film is everything you hoped for: a stylish, clever, and scandalously entertaining adventure. It’s the perfect guilty pleasure—one you won’t actually feel guilty about enjoying.

Another Simple Favor will be available to stream on May 1, only on Prime Video, It’s rated R for suicide, language throughout, sexual content, nudity, and violence.