Paul Feig Celebrates Creative Freedom with Lively and Kendrick in “Another Simple Favor”
Director Paul Feig is at it again, this time weaving the threads of collaboration and creativity into the fabric of “Another Simple Favor,” the much-anticipated sequel to the 2018 hit. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the film’s premiere at SXSW, Feig revealed his philosophy of allowing actors like Blake Lively and Anna Kendrick ample creative leeway during production. Eager to tap into the untapped reservoirs of talent on set, he asserts that the magic truly happens when actors are empowered to express their ideas, making their roles feel less confined and more authentically theirs.
Feig’s approach isn’t just a whimsical notion; it reflects a growing trend in Hollywood where directors are increasingly valuing actor input. The likes of Greta Gerwig and Taika Waititi have also championed this method, recognizing that collaborative environments can lead to richer storytelling. In “Another Simple Favor,” which is set to stream on Prime Video starting May 1, viewers can expect not only the return of the beloved duo, Lively and Kendrick, but also the addition of new faces like Elena Sofia Ricci and Allison Janney.
The film is poised to break new ground, taking its characters on an adventure that diverges from the original source material—a book that, curiously, lacks a sequel. This creative gamble was likely fueled by the success of the first installment, which garnered both critical acclaim and box office success, earning over $97 million worldwide against a modest budget of $20 million, according to Box Office Mojo.
Feig, who describes working with Lively and Kendrick as a “dream come true,” emphasizes the fun of exploring new storylines while retaining the essence of what made the first film a hit. With a backdrop of stunning Capri scenery, the sequel promises to be as visually captivating as it is narratively engaging. So, prepare yourselves for another round of dark comedy, twists, and turns, as Feig, Lively, and Kendrick invite us back into their unpredictable world.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Box Office Mojo, Entertainment Weekly
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