In the heart of New York City, Anna Kendrick was spotted on May 2, 2025, promoting her upcoming film "Another Simple Favor." The actress, known for her roles in "Pitch Perfect" and "Love Life," dazzled onlookers as she strolled through Chinatown, showcasing her unique fashion sense.
Kendrick wore a stunning pair of navy blue sandal heels that featured satin blue uppers and thin straps. The shoes were adorned with sculptural bow-inspired detailing that added a touch of elegance, setting them apart from typical sandal heels. With adjustable buckle closures for a custom fit and open square toes that lent a modern twist, the heels boasted a 2 to 3-inch stiletto height, giving Kendrick a subtle boost.
Her outfit further complemented her chic footwear, as she donned a light blue vest cropped top paired with a maxi-length skirt from designer Giambattista Valli. The skirt featured a captivating color scheme of light blue, dark blue, and ivory with intricate vegetal motifs, making it a perfect match for her stylish ensemble.
"Another Simple Favor," which is set to premiere in theaters on March 7, 2025, is directed by Paul Feig and serves as a sequel to the 2018 film "A Simple Favor." The storyline follows Kendrick's character, Stephanie Smothers, who travels to Italy to be the maid of honor for the cunning Emily Nelson, portrayed by Blake Lively. However, as the plot unfolds, Stephanie begins to suspect that Emily's seemingly good intentions may hide a more sinister agenda.
Reviews of the film have described it as bigger and bolder than its predecessor, with a lavish setting in Italy that serves as a backdrop for the unfolding drama. Critics note that the film features a plethora of plot twists, with Stephanie now attempting to publish her first true crime novel based on her tumultuous experiences with Emily, who has just been released from prison on appeal for murdering her twin sister and attempting to kill her ex-husband, Sean (played by Henry Golding).
As Emily prepares for her wedding to wealthy Italian businessman Dante (Michele Morrone) in Capri, she requests that Stephanie serve as her maid of honor, setting the stage for a reunion filled with tension and intrigue. The film's narrative is further complicated by the presence of a star-studded cast, including returning characters and new faces that contribute to the film's mystery.
Costume designer Renée Ehrlich Kalfus played a pivotal role in bringing the film's glamorous aesthetic to life. The team took over an entire villa in Capri, filling it with garments for the 300 guests attending Emily's opulent wedding. Kalfus described the opportunity to design for such a lavish setting as both a challenge and a delight, stating, "It was Capri, Italy, and the format was a giant opulent wedding, so it had a different set of requirements than the first film, which only made it more fun."
In addition to the stunning visuals, the film's costumes play a significant role in conveying character development. Emily's fashion choices reflect her complex personality, from her custom-built gray pantsuit that nods to her prison time to her extravagant wedding dress that features a 40-foot veil and a 50-pound skirt. Kalfus emphasized the importance of storytelling through costumes, noting, "In many ways, doing the costumes is like a puzzle. You've got to put together looks that go together and tell a story."
The film's premiere at the 2025 SXSW Film & TV Festival on May 1, 2025, was met with enthusiasm, as fans eagerly anticipated the return of Kendrick and Lively to the screen. The chemistry between the two actresses is a major draw, with their banter and dynamic adding depth to the film's narrative. Critics have praised the film for its humor, crime elements, and unexpected plot twists, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
As Kendrick continues her promotional tour, she is also navigating the complexities of her character's journey in the film. Stephanie's evolution from a mommy vlogger to a true-crime influencer is central to the story, and Kendrick's performance is expected to capture the audience's attention.
In the midst of the promotional whirlwind, a resurfaced video from the press tour for the original "A Simple Favor" has sparked discussions about the relationship between Kendrick and Lively. In the clip, Lively humorously refers to Kendrick as the "female version" of her husband, Ryan Reynolds, leading to speculation about the current dynamics between the two actresses.
As fans prepare for the release of "Another Simple Favor," the anticipation is palpable. With its blend of humor, suspense, and stunning visuals, the film promises to deliver an entertaining experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
