This MLK weekend, One of Them Days is already an instant blockbuster. From quick-witted writing to astonishing performances, One of Them Days is bound to be the next cult classic. Keke Palmer and SZA bring their characters to life as they try to survive the most chaotic day of their lives.
What It’s All About
This witty comedy written by Syreeta Singleton stars actress Keke Palmer and singer SZA. It begins with two best friends and roommates, Dreux (Keke Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA), as they discover that Alyssa’s boyfriend has run off with their rent money. To avoid eviction the very same day, the pair race against the clock, going to extreme lengths to get the money back. The two go from getting electrocuted to grab some unreachable vintage Jordans to getting attacked by crazy ex-girlfriends. It’s the perfect film to show you that, no matter how bad your day is, it can always get worse.
A Ride Or Die Classic
Keke and SZA are the ideal dynamic duo to take on the roles of Dreux and Alyssa. There is never a dull moment when these two are on screen as the two women illustrate the beautiful chaos of an inseparable female friendship.
To say it simply, this is a movie for the girls. Having seen the film with my own best friends, I can confidently say that Alyssa and Dreux’s friendship is one that all best friends can relate to. Their dynamic is genuine, original, and will bring back your own unforgettable memories with your other half.
We also see how Dreux and Alyssa’s relationship continues to blossom and develop throughout the film. It adds more depth to the characters and their story. They give a glimpse of the real ups and downs of living with you best friends all while entertaining us with a ridiculously perfect plot.
From Alyssa watching Dreux fumble with a guy to hyping her up before a job interview, this duo is an authentic display of true female friendship. Aside from their characters, Keke and SZA’s own personal friendship and chemistry shines through in every scene. It’s as if the two stars weren’t acting at all and were simply being themselves.
SZA’s Acting Debut
For many, SZA is known exclusively for her successful music career. The singer is famous for her incredible vocals and hit songs, having won 68 awards throughout her career. But her outstanding acting is yet another thing that she can add to her lavish resume. Her acting is animated and vibrant, and compliments Keke’s incredible comedic performance. If this was how you discovered SZA, you would think this is actually what she does for a living.
The only thing the film is lacking is a SZA song in the soundtrack. The music chosen for the film is near perfect, featuring artists such as Doechii, GloRilla, and Migos. All of the songs featured fit flawlessly, yet SZA is nowhere to be found on that list. You would think that a Grammy-winning artist playing the lead would have at least one song featured. But although I would have loved to hear one of her songs on the soundtrack, it actually created a separation between SZA, the singer, and SZA, the actress.
It’s no surprise that SZA is a talented woman, but the singer thoroughly proved herself in this role and I wouldn’t be surprised to see her in future projects.
A Perfectly Chaotic Cast
Not only do Keke and SZA give outstanding performances, but every supporting actor has their moment to outshine our leading ladies.
We get to meet hilarious characters that each play an essential role in Dreux and Alyssa’s life in The Jungles, the apartment complex they currently live in. Characters such as Bethany — played by Euphoria actress Maude Apatow — and Lucky — played by Katt Williams — bring the film to life. You will even recognize familiar faces such as Janelle James, known for her role in Abbott Elementary. These appearances are what will leave audiences in hysterics. There are so many memorable moments as each character represents an important part of Alyssa and Dreux’s community.
These characters seamlessly connect all of the absurd events Alyssa and Dreux have to face. It’s always easy to forget supporting characters, but this is a film that uses them to make a well-rounded story. Although Keke and SZA are amazing leads, they are nothing without their supporting cast members.
Some Final Thoughts
It may only be January, but it’s safe to say that One of Them Days will probably be Comedy of the Year. This film is everything you can want in a comedy. The plot and characters keep you on your toes and you’ll never know what will happen next. This film is filled with iconic personalities and outrageous situations. Keke Palmer and SZA were made for these roles, and I don’t think this is the last time we will see them together on screen.
The entire cast truly brings this film to life, but the writing makes seeing it a must. This isn’t just another slapstick comedy; it’s a film written with deliberation and thoughtfulness. In recent years, comedy has fallen flat at the box office, but this movie will bring it back. This is the revival comedy needs to survive the new world of streaming and television.
Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect when I walked into the theater to see this movie. But the joy and laughter that One of Them Days brought to everyone in the audience was infectious. If I were you, I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to see this movie in theaters.
Don’t walk to see this movie. Run.
