“One of Them Days,” featuring Keke Palmer and SZA, an engaging blend of humor and hardship reminisces the kind of '90s neighborhood-centric comedies such as “Friday” (1995) and “The Players Club” (1998). Often serving a balance to the earlier grittier narratives of inner-city life, these films were known for their distinct humor, eccentric characters, and served vital lessons on diversity and commerce.
In the film, Palmer's Dreux, a waitress, and SZA's Alyssa, a disinterested artist, are roommates known for their sharp, quick-witted banter. The urgency of securing rent money, due to their stern landlord Uche's eviction threats amid potential gentrification, drives the story. Alyssa's aimless boyfriend, Keshawn, has spent the rent money, adding to their dilemma.
This rent-or-bust plot, set against a ticking time bomb, sees our leads encounter a myriad of colorful characters that provide a nuanced portrayal of the community. From the nagging philosopher outside the loan office to the stern ex-stripper managing the blood bank and the new neighbor trying to blend in, each arrestingly eccentric character adds to a rich tapestry of low-income American life.
The film also taps into elements of romance and deception with Dreux's budding romance with the mysterious Mercedes-driver Maniac and a crafty con-artist who buys a pair of valuable Air Jordans they find.
It's not just the comedy, but the visually engaging storytelling by director Lawrence Lamont in his feature debut that makes the film striking. All while keeping the darker realities of straitened circumstances visible. "One of Them Days" accurately captures an underrepresented side of society while insinuating that, perhaps, we're all just trying to survive in our unique ways. It cleverly leverages discomfort to invite the audience into an intimate, spirited unraveling of the everyday life of its feisty heroines.
