A Simple Favor (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Paul Feig’s A Simple Favor (2018) is a stylish thriller that blends mystery, suspense, and dark comedy into an entertaining cinematic experience. Starring Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively, and Henry Golding, the film takes viewers on a twisted journey of secrets, betrayal, and unexpected revelations. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with a hint of humor, this film is a must-watch.
But where can you stream A Simple Favor online? In this review, we’ll explore the film’s strengths, its cast’s performances, and the best platforms to watch it in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Stephanie Smothers (Anna Kendrick) is a single mother and an enthusiastic parenting vlogger. She appears to be the epitome of a sweet, wholesome mom—overly involved in school activities, always eager to help, and seemingly friendless. That is until she befriends the enigmatic Emily Nelson (Blake Lively), a high-powered PR executive with a sharp wit, an intimidating presence, and an effortlessly glamorous lifestyle.
Their friendship takes an unexpected turn when Emily suddenly disappears after asking Stephanie for a simple favor—picking up her son from school. As Stephanie investigates, she begins unraveling dark secrets about Emily’s past, leading to shocking discoveries that change everything.
An Intriguing Mix of Mystery and Humor
A Simple Favor sets itself apart from conventional thrillers by balancing its suspenseful elements with a distinct sense of humor. The film plays with genre conventions, making it both engaging and unpredictable.
Paul Feig, known for his work in comedy (Bridesmaids, Spy), brings his signature wit to this thriller, ensuring that it never becomes overly grim or melodramatic. The film cleverly integrates comedy into tense moments, making it an entertaining ride that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Performance Highlights
One of the film’s biggest strengths is its stellar cast.
Anna Kendrick as Stephanie Smothers
Anna Kendrick delivers a standout performance, effortlessly shifting from an innocent, eager-to-please mom to a determined investigator. Her portrayal of Stephanie’s transformation is both believable and compelling.
Blake Lively as Emily Nelson
Blake Lively is magnetic as the enigmatic Emily. With her razor-sharp dialogue, commanding presence, and impeccable fashion sense, she dominates every scene she’s in. Emily is the type of character who can be both charming and terrifying, and Lively nails this duality perfectly.
Henry Golding as Sean Townsend
Henry Golding, known for his breakout role in Crazy Rich Asians, plays Sean, Emily’s husband. While he brings his usual charisma to the role, his performance is arguably the weakest among the three leads. At times, he feels overshadowed by Kendrick and Lively, but his presence adds another layer of intrigue to the story.
Themes and Influences
A Simple Favor draws inspiration from classic thrillers like Gone Girl and Les Diaboliques. However, unlike Gone Girl, which is dark and intense, A Simple Favor embraces a playful, almost satirical tone. The film also pays homage to French cinema, featuring a soundtrack filled with French pop classics, which adds to its stylish and sophisticated atmosphere.
Fashion plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Costume designer Renée Ehrlich Kalfus gives Blake Lively’s character a sleek, old-Hollywood aesthetic, reinforcing her aura of mystery and elegance. This attention to detail enhances the film’s visual appeal, making it as stylish as it is suspenseful.
Where to Watch A Simple Favor Online
If you’re looking to stream A Simple Favor in the U.S., here are the best options:
Subscription Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video – Available for streaming with a Prime subscription. Watch here
- Netflix – Currently included in the Netflix library (availability may vary).
- Apple TV+ – Available for subscribers.
Rental & Purchase Options
If you prefer to rent or buy the film, you can find it on:
- Vudu – Rent or buy in HD quality.
- Microsoft Store – Available for digital purchase.
- Spectrum – On-demand rental option.
- Plex – Offers streaming with ads.
Final Verdict: Is A Simple Favor Worth Watching?
Absolutely! A Simple Favor is a stylish, intriguing, and darkly humorous thriller that keeps you engaged from start to finish. It’s not a conventional mystery—it plays with audience expectations and delivers a satisfying mix of suspense and satire.
While the plot may have a few convoluted twists, the film’s strong performances, sharp dialogue, and bold direction make it an enjoyable watch. If you love thrillers that don’t take themselves too seriously, this movie is definitely worth your time.
Pros:
✅ Engaging mix of thriller and comedy
✅ Strong performances from Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively
✅ Stylish visuals and a fantastic soundtrack
✅ Clever script with unexpected twists
Cons:
❌ Some plot points feel messy
❌ Henry Golding’s performance lacks charisma
Stream A Simple Favor Today!
Ready to unravel the mystery? Stream A Simple Favor today on Amazon Prime Video or check other platforms like Netflix and Apple TV. Whether you’re in the mood for suspense, humor, or stylish cinematography, this film has it all.
Have you watched A Simple Favor? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
