Spa Weekend Stars Dream Big: Who Do They Want in the Sequel?

The genre of female-led ensemble comedies, celebrated for producing fun and rewatchable films like Bridesmaids and Girls Trip, welcomes its newest addition, Spa Weekend. This film embraces the tradition of raunchy, hilarious narratives, featuring a group of women who let loose while navigating personal challenges. The movie centers around single mom Jane (Leslie Mann), workaholic Sophie (Anna Faris), unapologetically angry Coco (Michelle Buteau), and party girl Mel (Isla Fisher) as they embark on a trip for Jane’s birthday. However, what promises to be a relaxing getaway quickly devolves into chaos, threatened by overbearing bosses, bitter separations, and friendship drama. The women hope that hot yoga, poolside lounging, and drug-fueled shenanigans might help them rekindle their love for each other, themselves, and even unexpected romantic partners.

Collider had the opportunity to speak with the main quartet of Spa Weekend’s funny ladies, who delved into the film's surprisingly moving message, sizzling romances, wildest stunts, and dream ideas for a sequel. Michelle Buteau highlighted the powerful message conveyed by her character, Coco. She emphasized that while women have every right to be angry, it is also a form of self-care to prevent that anger from consuming them. Buteau connected this theme to the current global climate, stating, “The world feels very dark right now,” and advocated for joy as a radical form of self-care, urging people to find laughter and spend time with loved ones. She noted that each character in the film embarks on a journey of self-discovery: Coco learning to manage her anger, Jane choosing herself first, Mel striving for authenticity, and Sophie fighting to assert herself.

Isla Fisher discussed the distinctive costumes for her character, Mel, which she adored and even kept some of the jewelry and outfits. She described the aesthetic as aiming for something iconic, cool, and edgy, despite admitting discomfort in a leopard print yoga outfit. Anna Faris, while joking about her character Sophie’s seemingly simple math skills, clarified Sophie’s complexity, likening her journey to that of the protagonist in Working Girl—a smart woman struggling to be taken seriously. Faris also playfully hinted at Sophie's unseen backstory, involving her husband Greg, suggesting a future where Sophie’s journey might take center stage in a sequel.

Leslie Mann shared insights into Jane’s romantic storyline with Kai, specifically the unexpectedly sexy hand massage scene. Mann spoke about finding a grounded romantic element within an otherwise absurd context, while Anna Faris praised Mann’s natural sensuality, describing it as an intimidating yet integral part of her essence. The cast also reveled in the physical comedy and slapstick elements of the film, which they felt were missing in modern cinema. Anna Faris pointed out her “bread and butter” scene of Sophie flying out of a golf cart, and Isla Fisher revealed her improvisation, such as stealing items in scenes. Michelle Buteau particularly lauded the writers and directors, Scott and Jon, for embedding such “hijinks” into the script, providing a foundation for their comedic performances.

Beyond the on-screen antics, the cast shared anecdotes about their musical preferences and cinematic influences. Michelle Buteau suggested adding “bounce music” like Big Freedia to a girls’ trip playlist, while Isla Fisher leaned towards Cardi B for her “filth.” On a more reflective note, the actresses discussed films that either scarred or inspired them in their youth. Michelle Buteau humorously recalled The Exorcist driving her to church, and Leslie Mann stated that Jaws ruined the ocean for her. Isla Fisher cited Goldie Hawn movies, along with works featuring Gilda Radner, Diane Keaton, and Bette Midler from the '80s era of women-led comedies, as her inspiration to enter filmmaking. Anna Faris, however, remembered being scarred by Halloween at too young an age.

Looking ahead, the cast excitedly brainstormed ideas for a potential sequel. Anna Faris envisioned Sophie’s husband, Greg, seeking an open, bisexual marriage, prompting Sophie to make life-altering decisions, including taking a job in Monaco. Michelle Buteau hoped for a rekindling of Roger and Coco’s marriage, acknowledging that even strong relationships can have lulls. Isla Fisher’s ambitious pitch involved Kai and Jane getting married, followed by a grand bachelorette party that introduces four more beloved actresses, such as Kathryn Hahn and Kristen Wiig. She enthusiastically suggested casting Goldie Hawn as Jane's mother and Bette Midler as her own sister, with Vanessa Williams as Coco's mother, creating a full-circle, star-studded event that would be “the greatest sequel ever.” Spa Weekend is now playing in theaters.