One of Them Days takes a concept we’ve seen many times before — the chaotic day in the life of two underdogs trying to scrape together enough money for rent — and gives it a fresh, hilarious spin. Written by Syreeta Singleton and directed by Lawrence Lamont, this film is a delightful romp through the streets of Los Angeles, led by the dynamic duo of Dreux (Keke Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA). As someone who’s spent plenty of time watching films about friends on crazy adventures, it was such a breath of fresh air to see a buddy comedy that isn’t bogged down by tired tropes. This isn’t a stoner comedy where the weed takes center stage — in fact, the movie doesn’t rely on pot jokes at all, which is both surprising and refreshing.
What stood out to me most was how the film treats Dreux and Alyssa’s struggles as both genuine and hilarious. These two characters aren’t just out here getting into wacky situations for the sake of comedy; their struggles are rooted in something real. Dreux is a waitress with big dreams who can’t seem to catch a break, while Alyssa is a talented artist who’s too often caught in the web of her free-spirited, impulsive nature. And yet, despite their frustrations, they’re constantly buoyed by a sense of affection for each other that feels so grounded and honest. It’s that bond — their deep friendship — that really carries the film.
Keke Palmer is, of course, a force of nature. Her comedic timing is impeccable, and her ability to effortlessly shift between screwball physicality and sharp one-liners is a joy to watch. As Dreux, Palmer feels like the glue that holds the entire film together, even when the pacing lags or the humor misses the mark. There’s an energy she brings to every scene that’s simply magnetic — you can’t take your eyes off her, even when the story takes its occasional detours.
SZA’s performance as Alyssa also blew me away, especially considering this is her acting debut. There’s something so natural about her presence on screen; she exudes a cool, carefree energy that contrasts beautifully with Dreux’s more anxious, tightly wound nature. Their dynamic is one that many of us can relate to — having that friend who’s always pushing you to relax and enjoy the moment, even when the world feels like it’s about to implode. Watching them navigate their chaotic day together, from dealing with unreliable boyfriends to rushing to make a crucial job interview, felt both funny and poignant. It was clear that despite their different approaches to life, they both have a deep, unshakable love and respect for each other.
The apartment complex, affectionately dubbed “The Jungle,” is such a great setting for this story. It's the kind of place you can imagine being full of vibrant, quirky characters, each one dealing with their own unique set of problems. Whether it’s the lovable but unreliable Jameel (Dewayne Perkins), the no-nonsense Mama Ruth (Vanessa Bell Calloway), or the clueless gentrifying newcomer Bethany (Maude Apatow), there’s a sense of community in this crumbling building that feels both hilarious and sadly familiar. The movie really nails the dynamic of gentrification — how the influx of outsiders, no matter how well-meaning, can often be the first sign that a neighborhood is on the way out.
Even with its charm, One of Them Days isn’t perfect. There are moments when the humor feels a little forced, especially with some of the bigger cameos, like Katt Williams and Lil Rel Howery, who pop in and out of the story in ways that feel a little too jarring for the otherwise grounded world the film creates. At times, I also found the pacing to be a little uneven — some scenes linger just a bit too long while others rush past too quickly. But honestly, these are minor quibbles in a film that delivers so much joy and heart. There’s a raw, authentic energy here that makes up for those occasional missteps.
What I really appreciated about this film is how it feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. There’s something about the way Dreux and Alyssa navigate their chaotic day — their mix of frustration, determination, and sheer absurdity — that felt incredibly real. We’ve all had days where it feels like the universe is conspiring against us, and yet, somehow, we still make it through. Their journey is a reminder that, no matter how hard life gets, there’s always room for a laugh, a dance break, and the comforting presence of a best friend.
One of Them Days isn’t just a funny movie — it’s one that resonates on a deeper level. The characters' struggles feel real, their humor is relatable, and their friendship is both touching and entertaining. For me, it was a perfect mix of comedy and heart, with two powerhouse performances at its center. If you’re in the mood for a film that’s both hilarious and heartfelt, One of Them Days is an absolute must-watch.
What did you think?
Loved it
Hated it
So/So
Comments