Lawrence Lamont’s *One of Them Days* serves as the ideal uplifting buddy comedy to add some brightness to a gloomy January.

The narrative revolves around Dreux (Keke Palmer), who is experiencing one of those days when nothing seems to go right. On the day of a crucial job interview, she finds out her roommate and childhood friend Alyssa (SZA) has given their rent money to her unreliable boyfriend, believing he would take the appropriate steps. Unfortunately, he squanders the cash on one of his outlandish plans and vanishes to pursue another woman. With their landlord threatening eviction if they don’t settle the bill by day’s end, Dreux—a waitress with aspirations of owning her own chain—and Alyssa, an artist struggling with decision-making, must rush to gather the funds while facing a myriad of unforeseen obstacles.

Filled with side-splitting antics and poignant moments, *One of Them Days* flourishes on the chemistry shared by its two main characters. As Dreux and Alyssa navigate their hectic day, they depend on one another to endure a series of misadventures. The film also acts as a heartfelt homage to Los Angeles, highlighting the dynamic, industrious communities that exist outside the usual tourist attractions—an especially meaningful tribute in light of recent wildfires.

### A Nostalgic Tribute to Classic Hangout Comedies

*One of Them Days* evokes a charming nostalgia for the classic era of hangout comedies—films where endearing misfits encounter a plethora of escapades. It channels the essence of beloved films like *Cheech and Chong’s Up in Smoke*, *House Party* featuring Kid ‘n Play, and the Wayans brothers’ *Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood*. The film even draws from the frenzied energy and ensemble humor characteristic of John Landis’ 1978 comedy *Animal House*, complete with insights into the characters’ futures at the conclusion.

Its closest spiritual forerunner may be F. Gary Gray’s *Friday*, another comedy centered on two friends racing against time to resolve a debt. While *Friday* is driven by the chemistry between Ice Cube and Chris Tucker, *One of Them Days* brings its own twist to the equation. Dreux and Alyssa’s inventive outlook on tackling their challenges injects a fresh perspective, as the pair hustles to gather the cash in a mere few frantic hours.

### A Fresh and Fun Spin on the Genre

In contrast to many earlier films that often marginalized women, *One of Them Days* places its female protagonists at the forefront. The film offers laugh-inducing moments as Dreux and Alyssa leap into ludicrous scenarios, all the while highlighting the strength of their friendship. This dynamic echoes the unapologetic camaraderie found in *Girls Trip* and even the 1997 cult favorite *B.A.P.S.*, which also depicted two women pursuing their aspirations in Los Angeles.

Produced by *Insecure* star and creator Issa Rae, the film doesn’t shy away from addressing social issues. It deftly incorporates critiques of careless landlords, gentrification, predatory payday loans, and the challenges posed by poor credit. Writer Syreeta Singleton, recognized for her contributions to *Insecure* and Rae’s *Rap Sh!t*, crafts a narrative that honors the past while establishing its own distinctive identity. Director Lawrence Lamont, another talent from *Rap Sh!t*, infuses the film with playful energy through exaggerated camera angles, dramatic zoom-ins, and a ticking countdown clock that maintains the suspense.

The film’s quirky vibe and sketch-like encounters also invite comparisons to *A Black Lady Sketch Show*, another project affiliated with Rae. Each new character or circumstance Dreux and Alyssa face feels like a mini-adventure, enriching the film’s vibrant, episodic quality.

### Keke Palmer and SZA Flourish as a Dynamic Pair

At the core of *One of Them Days* lies the undeniable chemistry between Keke Palmer and SZA. As Dreux and Alyssa, they bicker, uplift each other, and evolve throughout their chaotic day. Their friendship recalls the bond between Issa and Molly in *Insecure*—filled with highs and lows but ultimately underpinned by love and reciprocal growth.

Palmer’s charm radiates on-screen, even during moments when her character experiences hilariously awkward encounters, like tripping over her words in front of her crush. SZA, conversely, brings a relaxed, almost overly calm vibe to Alyssa, whose spontaneous choices often lead them into dilemmas. Together, they are a delight to observe, whether they’re preparing vintage Air Jordans adorned with flowers for rent money, jumping into a scuffle to defend a friend, or dashing away from an ambulance to evade a costly medical bill.

The film also features a vibrant supporting cast, including