Female buddy comedy “One Of Them Days” starring Solana Rowe, known as SZA, and Keke Palmer is making waves at the box office, as well as sparking conversations about the R&B singer’s official acting debut.
The film details a chaotic day in the lives of friend duo Dreux (Palmer) and Alyssa (Rowe) who must scramble to come up with the money to pay rent and avoid an imminent eviction. Their journey leads to an array of wacky circumstances, including breaking and entering, paramedics and a close encounter with a gang leader.
Rowe and Palmer’s comedic moments and playful banter make for a funny and lively film. Other prominent cast members include Katt Williams, Janelle James and Maude Apatow. “One Of Them Days” has a rating of “R” and is suitable for adults only.
One of the first things I came to appreciate about this movie was its depiction of life in a typical working-class, primarily-black neighborhood; one we would affectionately refer to as “the hood”. Hilarious commentary from Dreux and Alyssa’s nosy neighbors, a looming fear of the neighborhood being gentrified, and the tight-knit community that offered their assistance without hesitation rings true to my own experiences growing up in a similar environment.
I was also impressed by the acting abilities that Rowe (SZA) displayed in this project, who played aspiring artist Alyssa. Alyssa’s carefree, and sometimes reckless, nature got her and Dreux into their mess. Her recklessness somehow manages to also be what gets them out of it.
She accurately captures the essence of that one friend you can’t see yourself without, despite how much their terrible choices stress you out. Palmer adds to her already lengthy filmography with “One of Them Days”, playing uptight, hardworking waitress Dreux who desires a more fulfilling career path. Their personalities mesh, clash then mesh again as the plot moves along; a perfect metaphor for an imperfect relationship.
“One of Them Days” is much needed comedic relief during a time where films are typically melodramatic and serious. This is a movie that I can see myself revisiting when I just want to laugh. We also haven’t had a major Black, woman-led buddy comedy since the likes of “B.A.P.S.” (1997), so it’s always nice to see some representation.
Palmer and Rowe pair well as co-stars and have impeccable comedic timing. The plot is outrageous, silly and a bit ridiculous, but those are the defining characteristics of a good comedy. I loved this movie and would watch it over again and again. “One of Them Days” is being shown in theatres and will be available on digital platforms such as Prime Video and Apple TV starting Tuesday, Feb. 11.
