Director Paul Feig has expressed interest in revisiting A Simple Favor, hinting at a potential third film in the series. Following the success of the 2018 film and its recent sequel, Another Simple Favor, Feig shared his excitement about returning to the world of Emily Nelson (Blake Lively) and Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick).
In an interview, Feig stated that while he can’t make the decision alone, he has a clear idea of where the story could head next. “I definitely know where I want it to go,” he said, revealing his desire to take the characters on an even more “weird, international adventure.” This potential third film would explore new, more global locations, expanding on the series’ twisted dynamics.
The original A Simple Favor took place in a small Connecticut town, but Another Simple Favor shifted the setting to the picturesque island of Capri, where the complex relationship between Emily and Stephanie deepens. Emily, recently released from prison, is preparing for her wedding, with Stephanie caught up in the drama. Feig credits the sequel’s success on streaming services, especially during the pandemic, for reigniting interest in the characters and fueling his enthusiasm for a potential third film.
Feig, who has long been wary of sequels, was convinced to return to A Simple Favor due to the continued popularity of its characters. “I love these characters,” Feig explained. Despite the first film’s conclusion, where one of the characters ends up in prison, he believes the story is far from over. “Prison isn’t the end. Sometimes it’s just the beginning for somebody,” he remarked.
Although Another Simple Favor received a warm reception at its debut during the South by Southwest Festival, audience and critical reviews have been more mixed since its release. The sequel’s Rotten Tomatoes score dropped to 47%, compared to the first film’s 84% rating. Feig acknowledged that sequels can often face high expectations and the risk of disappointing audiences. “The reason you like the movie the first time is you’re discovering the characters for the first time, and that’s the fun of it,” he explained. Still, he remains open to the possibility of continuing the series, given the strong fan interest following the film’s success on streaming platforms.
Feig’s vision for a third film includes taking the characters into even more uncharted territory, both geographically and thematically. Whether this third installment becomes a reality is uncertain, but Feig’s openness to revisiting the world of A Simple Favor leaves fans with hope for more unpredictable twists and dark humor.
