If you loved the darkly comedic twists and stylish mystery of 'A Simple Favor' (2018), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same blend of suspense, glamour, and unexpected betrayals. Whether you're drawn to the film's sharp dialogue, femme fatale energy, or gripping plot twists, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive in to discover your next binge-worthy obsession!
The Invisible Man (2020)
Description: While more overtly horror, this film shares with 'A Simple Favor' its focus on gaslighting and female paranoia. Both explore women being doubted as they uncover terrifying truths. The tension builds similarly through what isn't seen, with stylish direction amplifying the psychological terror.
Fact: Originally conceived as part of Universal's Dark Universe. Elisabeth Moss did many of her own stunts. The film's budget was just $7 million but grossed over $140 million worldwide.
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Gone Girl (2014)
Description: Like 'A Simple Favor', 'Gone Girl' is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of female relationships, deception, and the dark underbelly of seemingly perfect lives. Both films feature unreliable narrators and shocking twists that keep the audience guessing. The stylish cinematography and sharp dialogue are also key similarities.
Fact: Based on Gillian Flynn's bestselling novel, who also wrote the screenplay. Rosamund Pike's performance earned her an Academy Award nomination. The film's iconic 'cool girl' monologue became a cultural phenomenon.
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Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: Like 'A Simple Favor', this psychological thriller explores toxic femininity, maternal relationships, and buried trauma. Both feature journalist protagonists returning to their pasts, with stylish direction that contrasts beautiful visuals with disturbing content. The slow-burn mystery and shocking revelations are comparable.
Fact: Based on Gillian Flynn's debut novel. Amy Adams learned to type with two fingers to play journalist Camille Preaker. The series features over 30 songs by Led Zeppelin.
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The Girl on the Train (2016)
Description: This mystery thriller shares with 'A Simple Favor' themes of female obsession, unreliable narration, and suburban secrets. Both protagonists are drawn into dangerous situations while grappling with their own personal demons. The atmospheric tension and exploration of fractured identities are common elements.
Fact: Adapted from Paula Hawkins' record-breaking novel. Emily Blunt learned to mimic drunken behavior by watching videos of alcoholics. The story was transposed from London to New York for the film adaptation.
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Big Little Lies (2017)
Description: This HBO series mirrors 'A Simple Favor' in its examination of wealthy suburban facades hiding dark secrets. Both feature glamorous yet troubled female protagonists, biting humor, and sudden violence. The coastal settings and focus on motherhood under pressure create similar vibes.
Fact: Originally planned as a miniseries but extended due to popularity. Meryl Streep joined the cast in season 2 as Mary Louise Wright. The show's soundtrack features numerous songs by the cast members themselves.
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The Flight Attendant (2020)
Description: This darkly comedic thriller shares with 'A Simple Favor' a glamorous yet dangerous world where the protagonist wakes up to a nightmare scenario. Both blend humor with suspense, featuring flawed female leads who drink too much and make questionable decisions. The stylish production and unreliable narration are key similarities.
Fact: Kaley Cuoco's first major dramatic role post-'Big Bang Theory'. Inspired by Chris Bohjalian's novel. Features innovative split-screen sequences to show Cassie's fractured psyche.
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Little Fires Everywhere (2020)
Description: Similar to 'A Simple Favor', this drama explores class differences, motherhood, and the secrets that bind families. Both feature seemingly perfect suburban lives unraveling, with strong female leads whose choices have devastating consequences. The visual contrast between polished surfaces and emotional chaos is comparable.
Fact: Based on Celeste Ng's bestselling novel. Kerry Washington was pregnant during filming. Reese Witherspoon's character was originally written as Asian in the novel.
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The Undoing (2020)
Description: This prestige thriller shares with 'A Simple Favor' its upper-class New York setting, fashion-forward aesthetic, and exploration of how well anyone truly knows their partner. Both feature charismatic male characters who may be hiding dark secrets, with the female leads unraveling disturbing truths.
Fact: Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant's first project together. Based on Jean Hanff Korelitz's novel 'You Should Have Known'. The series was filmed entirely in New York City during winter.
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Why Women Kill (2019)
Description: Like 'A Simple Favor', this dark comedy anthology explores female rage, infidelity, and murder among the wealthy. Both use stylish visuals and biting humor to examine how far women will go when betrayed. The multiple timelines and exploration of different eras' gender dynamics add depth.
Fact: Created by Marc Cherry ('Desperate Housewives'). Features three interconnected stories set in different decades. Lucy Liu made her directorial debut with several episodes.
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Promising Young Woman (2020)
Description: This revenge thriller shares with 'A Simple Favor' its exploration of female anger and justice. Both feature protagonists with hidden agendas, using their femininity as a weapon. The candy-colored aesthetic masking dark themes creates a similar unsettling tone.
Fact: Emerald Fennell wrote the script in just three weeks. Carey Mulligan's character was originally written as American. The film's ending sparked significant debate among viewers.
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