Netflix Considering Set It Up Sequel as the Rom-Com's Success Grows

[Black Panther]

Given the success of Netflix’s new romantic comedy Set It Up, it’s no surprise that a potential sequel could be in the works. But despite the increasing buzz, a follow-up isn’t exactly a guarantee, at least according to a new report.

Directed by Claire Scanlon and written by Katie Silberman, Set It Up premiered June 15 on Netflix. The romantic comedy stars Zoey Deutch - opposite Glen Powell - as an aspiring journalist in New York City. As the main characters attempt to set up their bosses, portrayed by Taye Diggs and Lucy Liu, each begins to think less about professional goals and more about personal happiness. With its sharp dialogue, endearing performances, and modern spin on genre tropes, Set It Up quickly became a trending topic and immediate hit for Netflix. Incidentally, the film’s momentum has sparked conversations about a potential sequel.

In a recent interview with Variety, director Scanlon discussed her creative influences for Set It Up, and her aim to accurately present modern New York City. She and her producers have expressed interested in further developing their characters; however, Netflix currently has no immediate plans to proceed with a follow-up film, according to Matt Brodlie — the director of original film at Netflix. Instead, the streaming platform will reportedly gauge the long-term results before deciding to produce a second film.

Set It Up is doing well so far with audiences and critics alike, and being on a streaming platform could give it substantial long-term life compared to releasing in theaters. Whereas a TV show like Stranger Things succeeded by word of mouth despite a relatively unknown cast, Set It Up has a rising star with its female lead, having previously starred in movies such as Everybody Wants Some!! and Why Him?, but this new film might earn her a new audience.

While an immediate sequel may not be necessary, Brodlie says that Netflix is making a hard push into the romantic comedy space - and Set it Up's worldwide success proves to them that they are on the right track. And it's not like Netflix is averse to sequels; they've already commissioned a follow-up to David Ayer's Bright, for instance. Sure, Bright and Set it Up have practically nothing in common, but the idea that Netflix wants to retain certain stories and characters for the long haul could be indicative of their future plans as a distribution company.