What would you do if you only had nine hours to come up with $1,500 for rent? That’s the chaotic, laugh-out-loud premise behind the new comedy “One of Them Days.” Directed by Lawrence Lamont, the film stars Keke Palmer and SZA, who take audiences on a whirlwind journey through Los Angeles in a race against time. With its mix of humor, heartfelt moments and sharp commentary on financial struggles, the film is already making waves as one of the standout comedies of 2025.
The story follows Dreux (Keke Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA), best friends navigating the trials of adulthood while trying to stay afloat in the pricey world of L.A. When their rent is due, the duo embarks on a desperate, but hilarious, series of schemes to gather the money. From climbing light posts to sell Jordans, to donating blood for some quick cash, their misadventures lead to plenty of laughs and a few unexpected twists.
At the heart of the film is the incredible chemistry between Palmer and SZA. Critics were quick to praise their dynamic performances, which bring authenticity and charm to the screen. The Movie Blog highlights, “SZA’s natural charisma and chemistry with Palmer carry her performance, making her an enjoyable presence on screen. Together, the duo exudes a believable and infectious camaraderie that anchors the film.” The bond between the characters feels genuine, making the audience root for them no matter how wild their antics get.
SZA’s film debut has also been a point of excitement for fans and critics alike. While primarily known as a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, SZA holds her own alongside Palmer, bringing a laid-back, relatable energy to Alyssa. Tr!ll Mag noted that SZA’s, “Acting is animated and vibrant, and compliments Keke’s incredible comedic performance.” Adding, “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 screenplay, written by Syreeta Singleton and co-produced by Issa Rae, has received praise for its mix of laugh-out-loud humor and sharp realism. Medium further commends the film, “The writing is sharp and witty, capturing the essence of friendship and resilience in the face of adversity.” while shining a light on the absurdities of financial survival and the challenges of working-class life.
However, not everyone has been completely won over. Some critics have pointed out that the film occasionally struggles with its pacing. Sarah g. Vincent Views mentioned that “While the entire movie is enjoyable, it takes a while before it finds its footing in terms of pacing and reliable laughs.” That said, most agree that the film’s charm outweighs any minor flaws.
Beyond the laughs, One of Them Days delivers a deeper message about friendship, resilience, and the realities of financial instability. The film resonates with audiences navigating similar struggles, balancing its comedy with a heartfelt exploration of what it means to survive and thrive in uncertain times.
Whether you’re a fan of comedies, a die-hard SZA fan, or simply looking for a feel-good movie, One of Them Days is worth watching. As Cryptic Rock aptly summarizes, “One of Them Days” is a breath of fresh air, reminding us of the joy and energy that a well-written Comedy can provide. With its hilarious antics, lovable characters, and heartfelt moments, this film delivers the perfect blend of humor and heart.”
So, grab some popcorn and settle in — you’ll laugh hard, and walk away with an appreciation for the chaos that life sometimes throws our way. Overall, I would recommend this movie, and rate it an 8.5/10!
jontue koff • Jan 29, 2025 at 6:27 pm
great review Ellie!
Raynetta Kelley • Feb 1, 2025 at 7:14 pm
Where can I watch it