Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick joined forces on March 7, 2025, for the much-anticipated premiere of Another Simple Favor at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film and TV Festival held in Austin, Texas. This sequel to the hit 2018 film A Simple Favor marks a significant reunion for the duo, directed once again by Paul Feig.
Arriving on the red carpet, Lively wowed attendees with her bold fashion choice: a two-piece pale pink latex ensemble by designer Renée Masoomian, showcasing a vintage flair. The strapless dress featured a corset-style bodice and black lace border, cinched at the waist, perfectly complemented by black open-toe heels adorned with fabric flowers. Adding flair, she topped her look with a vibrant pink cardigan, completing the outfit with retro-inspired pin curls and several large statement rings.
Kendrick, on the other hand, opted for an all-black ensemble with a plunging bodice and black pants by LaQuan Smith, accentuated by several statement necklaces, which she paired with platform shoes. Both ladies, dynamic on the red carpet, displayed their characteristic glamour and style.
During the event, Lively expressed her excitement about returning to the role, emphasizing the character's importance to her. "I love this character so much—this is probably my favorite character I’ve ever been fortunate enough to play," she told the audience. The sequel is poised to capture even more intrigue, following the storyline of the characters as they reunite for Emily's (played by Lively) wedding on the picturesque island of Capri.
Meanwhile, the premiere unfolded under the shadow of Lively's legal confrontations with director Justin Baldoni, where she filed a December 2024 lawsuit accusing him of sexual harassment during the filming of It Ends With Us. The allegations assert not only harassment but also misconduct and retaliation, which Baldoni has vehemently denied, filing his own counterclaims against Lively and her husband Ryan Reynolds.
Addressing questions on the matter on the red carpet, Kendrick humorously sidestepped inquiries related to the drama. When asked about the movie's impact amid the surrounding events, she replied, "Why? What happened? I did Ayahuasca and the last year of my life has just gone, but I’ve heard the movie is amazing!" Kendrick's diverting response received applause on social media, with fans praising her diplomatic evasion of what could be perceived as loaded questions.
Director Paul Feig previously spoke out against rumors surrounding any feud between Lively and Kendrick, emphasizing their professional relationship and dismissing gossip as unfounded. He stated, "The movie is finished and coming out soon. Don’t believe anything you read on social media these days.” His supportive stance reinforces the continued collaboration between the actresses and their shared chemistry on screen.
Another Simple Favor is set to launch globally on Amazon Prime Video on May 1, 2025. The film, like its predecessor, revolves around thrilling twists and dark humor within the backdrop of crime—a genre both Kendrick and Lively have embraced with enthusiasm. Audiences eagerly await the continuation of their thrilling, intertwining stories.
While Lively's appearances remain heavily covered by media outlets due to her legal situation, her attendance at the film festival indicates her resilience and commitment to her work, as she celebrated this new chapter with Kendrick and their director.
Overall, the premiere of Another Simple Favor not only marks another exciting career moment for Lively and Kendrick but also highlights the unrelated personal battles faced by Lively. It remains to be seen how the events surrounding her legal disputes will impact her career, but for now, the premiere remains celebrated as the triumphant return of their beloved characters.