Another Simple Favor: Stephanie Smothers Returns in a Stylishly Twisted Sequel

Another Simple Favor: Stephanie Smothers Returns in a Stylishly Twisted Sequel

In the glamorous world of secrets, lies, and killer fashion, some friendships refuse to die—and Another Simple Favor proves that no mystery stays buried for long. The sequel to the 2018 cult favorite A Simple Favor has finally landed on Prime Video, reuniting audiences with the endlessly curious and charmingly awkward Stephanie Smothers, played once again by Anna Kendrick.

Directed by Paul Feig and based on characters created by author Darcey Bell, Another Simple Favor builds on the sleek, noir-tinged world of the original while venturing into new territory—both narratively and geographically. This time, the stakes are higher, the wardrobe is bolder, and the twists are even sharper.

🕵️‍♀️ The Plot: Glamour, Murder, and... Capri?

Set several years after the original film’s dramatic finale, the sequel picks up with Stephanie Smothers thriving in her role as a lifestyle influencer and single mom. Life has seemingly returned to normal—until a shocking invitation drags her back into the orbit of Emily Nelson (Blake Lively), the icy, mysterious fashion executive who faked her own death in the first film.

The new story takes our characters to Capri, Italy—a sun-drenched paradise perfect for wedding bells, champagne toasts, and maybe a little murder. Emily’s former lover is getting married, and she’s roped Stephanie into helping plan a “simple” European wedding. But nothing about Emily—or the people in her life—is ever simple.

Soon, secrets unravel, betrayals emerge, and Stephanie is again forced to navigate a web of deceit, danger, and haute couture. As with the first film, the sequel blends a sharp sense of humor with genuine suspense, keeping viewers on their toes until the final frame.

🎭 Performances: Kendrick and Lively Shine Again

One of the greatest strengths of Another Simple Favor lies in the undeniable chemistry between Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively. Kendrick’s portrayal of Stephanie—still perky and naive on the surface, but with a dark, clever undercurrent—grounds the film in relatability. Her evolution from desperate housewife to amateur sleuth continues in unexpected and satisfying ways.

Meanwhile, Lively’s Emily remains as enigmatic as ever. With razor-sharp wit, dry humor, and just the right dose of menace, she dominates every scene she’s in. Her wardrobe is once again a character of its own, curated to perfection with avant-garde suits, designer sunglasses, and an ever-present martini.

The supporting cast introduces fresh faces and potential threats, rounding out a plot that never forgets to entertain—even when it's diving into themes of betrayal, revenge, and empowerment.

🎬 Direction and Style: Paul Feig's Signature Touch

Director Paul Feig once again proves he’s the master of genre-bending cinema. Known for Bridesmaids, Spy, and The Heat, Feig brings his signature mix of stylized visuals, whip-smart dialogue, and feminist undertones to the sequel.

The Capri setting adds a new layer of visual richness—Mediterranean cliffs, vintage villas, and crisp designer fashion all add to the movie’s atmosphere. Feig has a knack for juxtaposing danger and elegance, and he uses it to full effect here. The result is a film that’s as stylish as it is sinister.

🎞️ Tone and Themes: Satire Meets Suspense

Another Simple Favor walks the fine line between satire and suspense with precision. It’s a film that knows how to poke fun at suburban mom culture, influencer lifestyles, and upper-crust pretension—while also delivering genuine thrills.

Themes of female empowerment, identity, and loyalty run deep. Stephanie and Emily are both complex, flawed women navigating a world that often tries to define them. The sequel continues exploring their twisted friendship, blurring the line between admiration and manipulation.

Fans of the first film will appreciate the callbacks and character arcs, while newcomers will find the story accessible and engaging even without full knowledge of the original.

🎥 Reception and Fan Reaction

Within days of its release, Another Simple Favor has sparked intense discussion across social media platforms. TikTok is brimming with aesthetic edits, Reddit threads are filled with theory breakdowns, and fans are already calling for a third installment.

Critics have praised the film’s playful tone, strong performances, and willingness to take risks. While it leans into its own absurdity at times, that self-awareness is part of its charm.

📺 Verdict: A Sequel Worth Savoring

Another Simple Favor isn’t just a worthy follow-up—it’s a standout in its own right. By reuniting Kendrick and Lively in a fresh, sun-soaked mystery, Paul Feig delivers a smart, stylish, and wickedly fun thriller that expands the original’s universe while pushing its characters into even deeper waters.

Whether you’re in it for the plot twists, the couture, or just to see Stephanie Smothers bumble her way through another high-stakes situation, this sequel offers plenty to enjoy. In the end, Another Simple Favor proves that when it comes to friendship and murder, nothing is ever truly over.