Twisted Blake Lively Thriller Dominates Netflix Ahead of its New Prime Video Sequel
Paul Feig has long been celebrated for his comedic sensibilities, crafting beloved projects like Freaks and Geeks and directing hit films such as Bridesmaids, Spy, and the 2016 reboot of Ghostbusters. However, Feig isn’t confined to humor alone—his 2018 thriller also proved he has a knack for suspense. The film, which combines a striking noir aesthetic with a colorfully gripping mystery, has surged to the top of Netflix’s trending chart this year, captivating new audiences with its blend of intrigue, style, and standout performances from Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick.
The film centers on Stephanie, a single mother and aspiring social media influencer, who forms an unlikely friendship with the enigmatic and sophisticated Emily. When Emily suddenly disappears after asking Stephanie for a seemingly innocent favor, the story turns dark, unraveling a complex web of secrets and deception.
While the trailer for A Simple Favor highlights the undeniable chemistry between the film’s two leading women, the movie itself stops short of being a fully realized queer thriller. Emily, played by Lively, openly identifies as bisexual and exudes effortless confidence in a series of striking power suits. However, the film leans more into Stephanie’s growing fixation on Emily, making their relationship one of obsession rather than romance.
Based on Darcey Bell’s 2017 debut novel, A Simple Favor was initially compared to modern psychological thrillers like Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train. The film adaptation features a strong supporting cast, including Henry Golding, Linda Cardellini, Jean Smart, and Dustin Milligan. Upon its original theatrical release, the movie received praise from critics and audiences, earning an impressive $97.6 million at the global box office.
Watch the trailer for the thriller dominating Netflix and Prime Video
Its success paved the way for a sequel, Another Simple Favor, which was officially announced in 2022. Lively and Kendrick are set to reprise their roles in the upcoming follow-up, which, according to People, will take Stephanie and Emily to the picturesque island of Capri, Italy, for an extravagant wedding involving Emily and a wealthy Italian businessman.
During Emily’s lavish wedding to an Italian businessman on the picturesque island of Capri, Italy, a murder shakes the festivities.
The film reunites Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, Henry Golding, Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Joshua Satine, and Ian Ho, with new additions to the cast, including Michele Morrone, Elizabeth Perkins, and Allison Janney. It’s set to premiere at South by Southwest on March 7, 2025, before debuting on Amazon Prime Video on May 1.
Check out the poster for Another Simple Favor here:
With the film now available on multiple streaming services, a new wave of viewers is discovering—or revisiting—this stylish, darkly comedic thriller.
A Simple Favor is streaming on Netflix and Prime Video.
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