“One of Them Days” emerged as a standout buddy comedy film in 2025, starring Keke Palmer and SZA in her film debut. This R-rated comedy became a major hit, grossing over $51 million worldwide against a modest $14 million budget. Directed by Lawrence Lamont and penned by Syreeta Singleton, the film follows two roommates in a desperate race against the clock to raise money before facing eviction. When Alyssa discovers her boyfriend Keshawn spent their rent money on his T-shirt business, the duo must gather $1,500 by 6 PM to avoid losing their apartment.
Cast members and character profiles
The talented ensemble brings the story of friendship and financial desperation to life:
| Actor | Character | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Keke Palmer | Dreux Jones | Co-executive producer |
| SZA | Alyssa | Acting debut |
| Katt Williams | King Lolo | Fearsome gangster |
| Lil Rel Howery | Landlord | Demands payment |
| Janelle James | Berniece | Fast food restaurant manager |
Additional cast members include Dewayne Perkins as a franchise manager who interviews Dreux for a job, Amin Joseph portraying Keshawn, Alyssa’s unfaithful boyfriend who misuses their rent money, and Gabrielle Dennis as a loan bank employee who reminds the protagonists of their poor credit scores. DomiNque Perry appears as Maniac, while Maude Apatow plays a character who helps organize the impromptu art gallery featuring Alyssa’s paintings.
Lead performances
| Actor | Performance Highlights |
|---|---|
| Keke Palmer | Brings emotional depth to Dreux’s determination |
| SZA | Natural transition from music to acting |
Critics praised the authentic chemistry between Palmer and SZA, noting how their portrayal of friendship tested under extreme circumstances resonated with audiences. Their comedic timing during situations like blood donation scenes and selling stolen Air Jordans showcased their versatility as performers.
Supporting cast highlights
| Actor | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Katt Williams | Scene-stealing performance as antagonist |
| Janelle James | Comedic relief in tense situations |
Williams delivers a memorable performance as King Lolo, adding genuine menace to the otherwise comedic narrative. James brings sharp humor as Berniece, while the entire supporting ensemble enhances the story of two women going to extremes to save their apartment and relationship.
Production team and technical crew details
The film’s success stems from collaboration between experienced filmmakers:
| Role | Person | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Director | Lawrence Lamont | Crafted the film’s comedic timing |
| Writer | Syreeta Singleton | Created authentic dialogue |
| Cinematographer | Ava Berkofsky | Visual storytelling |
| Editor | Tia Nolan | Pacing and narrative flow |
| Composer | Chanda Dancy | Original score |
The production team included notable producers Issa Rae, Deniese Davis, Sara Rastogi, James Lopez, and Poppy Hanks, who helped bring this story of friendship and financial struggle to screens. Executive producers included star Keke Palmer alongside Sharon Palmer, Charles D. King, and Jeff Valeri.
| Production Companies | Distribution |
|---|---|
| MACRO Film Studios, Hoorae, ColorCreative, TriStar Pictures | Sony Pictures Releasing |
Filming process
| Timeline | Duration | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| July 2024 | 22 days | Tight schedule, LA premiere cancelled due to Palisades Fire |
The production team faced significant challenges during the compressed 22-day shooting schedule. Scenes featuring firefighters had to be carefully coordinated, while locations ranging from a blood donation center to the apartment where eviction loomed required quick setups.
Post-production
| Element | Team Member | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Editing | Tia Nolan | Created comedic rhythm |
| Score | Chanda Dancy | Enhanced emotional weight |
Post-production elements enhanced the story of Dreux and Alyssa’s chaotic day. The film earned an R rating for language, sexual material related to Keshawn’s infidelity, and brief drug use. Notably, this was the first theatrical R-rated female Black comedy since “Girls Trip” in 2017.
- Runtime: 97 minutes
- Box Office: Over $51 million worldwide ($50 million domestic)
- Critical Reception: 94% positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes
- Audience Score: “A-” CinemaScore grade, 84% positive from PostTrak
| Film Highlight | Notable Element |
|---|---|
| Social media impact | Viral clips of Palmer and SZA’s comedic exchanges |
| Cultural significance | First theatrical R-rated female Black comedy since 2017 |
