LONDON — Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick reunited in London on April 15 for a special screening of their upcoming film, Another Simple Favor, held at the Ham Yard Hotel. The appearance comes ahead of the movie’s streaming release on Amazon Prime Video, scheduled for May 1.
The event marked the pair’s first joint public appearance in several years, sparking attention due to long-standing rumors of a rift between the two stars. Lively and Kendrick previously co-starred in the 2018 hit A Simple Favor, directed by Paul Feig, who returns to helm the sequel.
Both actors appeared in coordinated dark ensembles, with Kendrick wearing a black lace two-piece by Zuhair Murad and Lively opting for a bold leather coat and boots. Their presence at the screening and interactions at the event suggested a renewed camaraderie.
“Oh, it’s the best! I’m so happy,” said Lively when asked about working with Kendrick again, according to InStyle magazine. The remark is seen by many as a subtle dismissal of past rumors that the actresses had clashed during the first film’s production.
Another Simple Favor continues the story of Stephanie Smothers (Kendrick), a suburban mom and video blogger, and Emily Nelson (Lively), a glamorous and enigmatic PR executive. The sequel transports the characters to a luxurious wedding in Capri, Italy, where mystery and intrigue resurface.
The film debuted at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival in Austin, Texas, on March 7 to early buzz. It will be available exclusively on Amazon Prime Video starting next month.
In addition to Lively and Kendrick, the sequel features returning cast members Henry Golding and Andrew Rannells, along with new additions including Michele Morrone.
Feig, known for his work on Bridesmaids and Spy, said the follow-up aims to preserve the stylish noir-comedy tone of the original while expanding the mystery. “It’s a darker, funnier, and even more twisted ride,” he said in a statement issued by Amazon MGM Studios.
The 2018 film earned more than $97 million worldwide and garnered a cult following for its combination of fashion, suspense, and dark comedy.
However, there are no reports of further promotional stops, but Amazon has mentioned a digital marketing campaign in the run up to releasing the film.