Warm Reception for “Another Simple Favor”at SXSW 2023
The premiere of Another Simple Favor at the SXSW Film and TV Festival was met with enthusiasm from the audience in Austin, where Blake Lively showcased her first film since engaging in a well-publicized legal controversy with her co-star and director of It Ends With Us, Justin Baldoni.
Joining Lively on stage at The Paramount Theater were co-star Anna Kendrick, director Paul Feig, and notable cast members including Andrew Rannells, Elizabeth Perkins, and Alex Newell.
Director’s Vision and Actor Sentiments
During the post-screening Q&A session, Feig expressed his excitement about revisiting beloved characters. “I love these characters so much and thought they would be so fun to revisit,” he remarked. Lively also shared her fondness for her character, Emily Nelson, stating, “She is my favorite character I have ever been fortunate enough to play.”
Storyline Insights
Set to premiere on Amazon’s streaming platform on May 1, Another Simple Favor picks up after the events of the 2018 hit. The plot follows Stephanie Smothers (played by Kendrick) and Emily (Lively) as they travel to the idyllic island of Capri for a lavish wedding. In a twist, Emily is set to marry a wealthy Italian businessman, but the plans unravel as themes of murder and betrayal surface.
Success of the Original Film
The first installment, A Simple Favor, achieved significant success, grossing $97 million at the global box office and cultivating a dedicated fanbase through streaming, reinforcing its status as a cult classic. Lively recalled her nerves during the filming of the original, expressing uncertainty about whether they were creating a drama or comedy, to which Feig humorously replied, “Yes.”
Enhanced Camp and Intrigue
The sequel promises to amplify its campy elements, incorporating even more extravagant outfits and unexpected plot twists. “Right before we started shooting, [Feig] said, ‘I have a real curve ball idea.’ I won’t spoil anything, but it definitely upped the ante,” Lively shared, hinting at a surprising story turn that left her feeling uncomfortable in the theater.
Kendrick’s Perspective
Kendrick expressed her mixed emotions about reprising her role, particularly contemplating her character’s attitude towards reuniting with a potentially dangerous friend. “On this one, I thought, if I’m going with her into certain peril, she wouldn’t take it that seriously,” she reflected, drawing inspiration from a classic film moment where mayhem is met with a nonchalant attitude.
SXSW 2023 Highlights and Amazon’s Film Strategy
The audience at SXSW eagerly embraced the return to the world established in A Simple Favor. Notably, Amazon’s lineup features several key premieres this year, including The Accountant 2 starring Ben Affleck and Nicole Kidman’s thriller Holland.
At a panel preceding the premiere, Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, and Courtenay Valenti, head of film, discussed the studio’s robust theatrical strategy. They shared plans to release 12 to 14 films theatrically in 2026, following an announcement about expanding both international distribution and marketing efforts. This initiative paves the way for their upcoming appearance at CinemaCon next month.
Valenti emphasized the commitment of Amazon MGM to theatrical releases, stating, “This company is committed to theatrical, and I think the real evidence of it is our expansive slate.”