Another Simple Favor, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 mystery-thriller A Simple Favor, officially debuted at the 2025 SXSW Film Festival, and its first round of reviews has arrived. Once again directed by Feig and starring Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick, Another Simple Favor‘s story follows Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick) and Emily Nelson (Lively) as they reunite in Capri, Italy, for Emily’s extravagant wedding to a rich Italian business executive.
After debuting at SXSW on March 7, two months ahead of its May 1 release on Prime Video. Rotten Tomatoes has calculated the debut score for the murder-mystery sequel, and at the time of writing, Another Simple Favor is currently sitting at a 75% approval rating from critics. The first film earned an 84% critical score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it a critically well-received entry in the mystery-thriller genre while also becoming a box office hit, grossing $97 million worldwide on a $20 million budget. Nevertheless, there are no plans for a theatrical release.
What Another Simple Favor’s Critics Score Means For The Film
It Falls Short Of The Original
Another Simple Favor‘s 75% Rotten Tomatoes score reflects a mostly positive response from critics based on 16 reviews so far, albeit not as enthusiastically as its predecessor. While some sequels struggle with diminishing returns, Another Simple Favor reviews indicate that it managed to engage critics with its plot and dynamic performances by Kendrick and Lively. However, as with many films, the sequel’s audience reception may eventually differ from its critical consensus. The first film’s audience score is 73%, indicating that while general audiences enjoyed the film, there may be trouble with how they respond to the sequel.
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Reviews for the sequel are still coming in, and the audience score will be solidified once the movie premieres on streaming, which will determine whether the film captures the same intrigue and fun that made the first one a hit. While Stephanie and Emily’s story continues after A Simple Favor‘s ending, the challenge lies in keeping the fresh and stylish appeal that defined the original. Critics seem to suggest that while entertaining, the sequel doesn’t fully capture the previous movie’s novelty. However, if the film performs well on streaming, there’s always a chance for a third installment.
Our Take On Another Simple Favor’s Early Reception
Kendrick & Lively Still Make A Good Team
With a 75% Rotten Tomatoes score, Another Simple Favor is off to a good start. While it hasn’t quite reached the critical acclaim of its predecessor yet, it still offers an entertaining mystery for fans of the original. Kendrick and Lively’s return to their respective roles adds to the excitement, and Feig’s signature stylish direction keeps the sequel engaging. Another Simple Favor‘s success is ultimately determined by how audiences react to its twists, humor, and performances. If it can match the original’s charm and intrigue, it could become another cult favorite, even if critics are less enthusiastic this time around.
Source: Rotten Tomatoes