One of Them Days delivers exactly what it promises: a laugh-out-loud, chaotic, and relatable comedy that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious. It’s one of thise films you didn’t know you needed. Directed by Lawrence Lamont and produced by Issa Rae, this film takes viewers on a wild 24-hour ride with two best friends trying to scrounge up $1,500 for rent. While the premise sounds familiar and pays homage to classics like Friday After Next, this movie forges its own path.
At first, I wasn’t sure if this movie would hit. The trailer made it seem a little too goofy, but trust me it’s way better than it looks. Once it gets going, you’re hooked.
The film’s leading ladies, Solana “SZA” Rowe (in her acting debut) and Keke Palmer, steal the show as Alyssa and Dreux. Their chemistry is undeniable, perfectly capturing the ebb and flow of a deep friendship under pressure. SZA shines as Alyssa, embodying her artsy, free-spirited character with ease, while Keke’s Dreux is a driven, no-nonsense foil to her antics. Together, they feel like the girls next door, making their misadventures all the more believable and endearing.
The movie is packed with ridiculous moments, from donating way too much blood to stealing shoes off a powerline. While some scenes are so over-the-top they make no sense (like bouncing back from getting electrocuted), they’re still hilarious. The lengths these two will go to avoid eviction are both absurd and oddly relatable. The film’s humor is sharp and unforced, with jokes landing naturally in almost every scene. Audience laughter was constant, and “if you know, you know” moments—like Dreux walking around in a head scarf because her braids weren’t done in the middle hit home for Black viewers in a special way.
The supporting cast adds extra layers of hilarity and heart. DeWayne Perkins as Jameel, the neighborhood hairstylist, is a standout. His sharp wit and undeniable charm make him one of the most memorable LGBTQ+ characters in recent Black cinema.
Katt Williams, as the unpredictable Lucky, delivers a cameo that is peak comedy. His signature blend of humor and absurdity fitting seamlessly into the narrative. Joshua David Neal as Keshaun, Alyssa’s freeloading no good boyfriend. And yes, Issa Rae keeps the tradition alive with Patrick Cage as the hot guy who’ll have you swooning.
Beyond the humor, the film’s themes of friendship, resilience, and community shine through. The tension between Alyssa and Dreux comes to a head in a raw argument, forcing them to confront their flaws and grow closer as a result. The subplot involving gentrification where the neighborhood’s new white resident played by Maude Apatow turns from an unwelcome presence to an unexpected ally that adds a thoughtful layer, highlighting the complexities of change in Black communities.
Issa Rae’s touch is evident throughout, from the clever references to her hit series Insecure (shoutout to the We Gotcha Credit Union) to her ability to craft a story that’s as funny as it is meaningful.
The soundtrack? Fire. Migos, Doechii, Flo Milli—it all fits perfectly with the vibe of the movie.
One of Them Days isn’t without its flaws, but that’s part of its charm. It’s messy, over-the-top, and sometimes unrealistic but it’s also authentic, hilarious, and heartfelt. The epilogue, complete with updates on the characters’ futures, ties it all together in classic Black film tradition, leaving you with a smile on your face.
Ultimately, One of Them Days is a celebration of friendship, community, and the beauty of turning chaos into triumph. It’s a film you’ll want to watch with your friends, laughing at the inside jokes and nodding along to the moments that feel just a little too real.
Rating: 8.5/10
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