Review by Jon Donnis
In the vein of classic 90s comedies, One of Them Days offers a charming and relatable tale of friendship, resilience, and chaos. Directed by Lawrence Lamont, the film stars Keke Palmer as Dreux and SZA as Alyssa, two best friends whose misadventures in trying to pay rent take them on a wild and unpredictable ride.
The story begins with Dreux, a waitress, and Alyssa, an aspiring artist, discovering that their rent money has vanished, thanks to Alyssa's boyfriend, Keshawn. From there, the film plunges into a madcap journey involving a cheating boyfriend, an impromptu art gallery, stolen Air Jordans, and a confrontation with the menacing King Lolo. Along the way, the duo's bond is tested, but their unwavering friendship keeps them afloat amidst the chaos.
What makes One of Them Days stand out is its ability to blend raucous slapstick comedy with moments of real heart. Keke Palmer and SZA deliver excellent performances, with perfect comedic timing and chemistry that feels authentic. The film strikes a balance between its lighthearted humour and the underlying commentary on economic struggles, poking fun at serious issues without losing its levity.
Director Lawrence Lamont deserves credit for his ability to weave heartfelt moments into the comedy, ensuring that the characters remain relatable despite the absurdity of their circumstances. However, the film occasionally leans too heavily on overused stereotypes, which can make it feel more like a sitcom than a feature film.
Despite these minor flaws, One of Them Days is a breath of fresh air in a comedy landscape that often lacks originality. It channels the spirit of old-school comedies while adding a modern twist, creating a film that's not just funny but genuinely enjoyable to watch.
With its sharp performances, relatable themes, and a healthy dose of nostalgia, One of Them Days is a film that will leave you smiling. It may not reinvent the genre, but it offers a fun and heartwarming experience. For that reason, it's easy to give this one a solid 8.5 out of 10.
Out Now on Apple TV - https://apple.co/4jvLaOW
