“One of Them Days” is a comedy that follows the frantic efforts of Alyssa, played by Grammy-winning artist SZA, and her roommate Dreux, played by actress and artist Keke Palmer, as they race against the clock to raise $1,500 in a single day to avoid eviction after Alyssa’s boyfriend steals their rent money. Meanwhile, Dreux is juggling the pressure of making it to her 4:00 PM interview, where she hopes to secure a raise and become the assistant manager at the diner she works at. What starts as a simple mission to get rent money turns into a chaotic and hectic day, with the two women trying everything, from selling shoes found on an electrical line to donating blood for money—literally bleeding themselves dry to make ends meet.
Set in a lively urban neighborhood in South LA, the film highlights the rhythm and monotony of routine while capturing moments of deep connection between friends and relatable struggles. Keke Palmer’s vibrant energy perfectly captures Dreux’s determination to make the most of every day despite facing personal struggles. But the contrast between her character’s grounded nature and SZA’s free-spirited, whimsical portrayal of Alyssa is what makes their dynamic feel so realistic and heartwarming on screen. Amidst the chaos, the looming threat of gentrification comes to the light when a new neighbor, Bethany, moves in. She is initially oblivious to her privileged treatment—her apartment is far nicer, recently renovated, and has many more amenedties than her neighbors, contributing to the film’s themes of gentrification, community, and friendship.
The writing in “One of Them Days” blends sharp, witty humor with heartfelt moments, tackling issues like the high cost of living and working-class struggles without ever becoming too heavy. In one scene Alyssa and Druex are applying to get a payday loan when the loan agent bursts out laughing at their low credit scores, resulting in a hilarious argument between the two friends and the agent. The film doesn’t explicitly dive into these topics, but acknowledges them through accurate portrayal.
The pacing of the film mirrors the urgency of Dreux and Alyssa’s mission, keeping the audience on edge as the deadline looms. The frantic pace works for the most part, but at times, it can feel a bit overwhelming. Some scenes involving secondary characters could have been trimmed to focus more on the core relationship between Dreux and Alyssa, and a few comedic moments linger longer than necessary.
Overall, “One of Them Days” is a comedy that also captures the relatable struggles of working, paying bills, and trying to make a fulfilling life. The film balances humor with emotional moments, making it a great choice for fans of comedy, romance, or anyone who enjoys great storytelling. While some of the humor may not be suitable for younger viewers, the film is definitely worth watching for anyone who wants a good laugh.