Ah, 2018's "A Simple Favor" - it had everything you'd want in a movie - a whirlwind mystery, wit, and the dynamic duo, Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively, who served us an electrifying chemistry. This made anticipation for the sequel palpable when it was announced, as fans eagerly waited for the magic to be stirred up again by the phenomenal cast and director Paul Feig.

Here's a quick recap: “Another Simple Favor” hit the screens on May 1, 2025, a kaleidoscope of talents; Kendrick, Lively, supported by Andrew Rannells, Bashir Salahuddin, Elizabeth Perkins, Michele Morrone, Alex Newell, Henry Golding, and Allison Janney. Penned by Jessica Sharzer and Laeta Kalogridis, with a runtime of 121 minutes, the movie promised violence, language, and adult scenes.

The expectations fizzled, however, around the mid-way mark of the movie, despite a promising start. The first half was rather tantalizing, setting the stage with refreshing conflicts and budding relationships amidst an airy ambiance. It was as if the movie was preparing a scrumptious five-course meal, only for it to start serving fizzled soda and stale chips. The twisty mystery we had grown fond of seemed to have lost its charm and creativity in the sequel.

Our beloved Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick), back in the spotlight as a vlogger and an investigator, found herself in a pickle when Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) lands a place next to her at a plush wedding in Capri, Italy. Yes, the very same Emily who framed Stephanie in the prequel, now inviting her to be a maid of honor. It’s safe to say tension was high, and suspicions even higher. Oh, and did we mention that Emily's husband-to-be, Dante Versano (Michele Morrone) turns out to be a mob heir? Talk about a wedding with fireworks!

The movie had its shining moments, especially the scenario on the private jet highlighting the glittering Emily and a guarded Stephanie. The dialogue was crisp, the tension palpable, hinting at the magic of the prequel still very much alive.

But soon, the magic started to ebb. The plot became predictable, the twists straightened out, the climax fell flat, and the spark that made the original so enchanting was snuffed out. The glorious setting and stellar cast couldn't camouflage the botched storyline and the rhythm we loved in the first movie had decidedly gone offbeat.

Despite the soppy storyline, we tip our hats to the production team for the stunning visuals of Capri, Italy, and the fantastic costume choices. Emily's blood-edged wedding dress was a sight for the fashion-blind and couture lovers alike.

For the die-hard fans of the prequel, we recommend curbing your expectations for "Another Simple Favor". It's visually delicious, yes, but the undercooked plot leaves a sour aftertaste. It's with a heavy heart that we say, this sequel wasn't worth the suspenseful wait.