Keke Palmer and SZA’s ‘One of Them Days’ Tops Box Office with Comedy and Social Commentary

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Keke Palmer and SZA‘s new film, “One of Them Days,” has defied expectations, becoming the No. 1 comedy in the country during the four-day Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. The film, which came in second only to Disney‘s “Mufasa,” blends humor with sharp social commentary, resonating with audiences nationwide.

Written by Syreeta Singleton and directed by Lawrence Lamont, “One of Them Days” follows two best friends, Dreux (Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA), as they scramble to raise $1,500 for rent to avoid eviction. The film draws comparisons to the 1995 classic “Friday,” but with a modern twist, addressing issues like gentrification, systemic racism, and economic insecurity.

Palmer, who also produced the film alongside Issa Rae, told NBC News that the story felt familiar. “It reminded me of the kind of films that I watched growing up about friendship, usually starring two guys, though,” she said. The film pays homage to buddy comedies like “Let’s Do It Again” and “Bad Boys,” while centering women in a way that Palmer found refreshing.

The production process was a challenge for Palmer, who juggled multiple roles, including co-hosting “Good Morning America” and producing the film. “It was a great lesson in collaboration,” she said, emphasizing the importance of balancing creative vision with studio expectations.

Despite its comedic tone, “One of Them Days” tackles serious issues. Rae, known for her HBO series “Insecure,” noted that the film reflects the struggles of hustle culture. “Everybody’s broke right now. The economy is struggling,” she said. “It’s a reflection of how hard it is to make ends meet, and also finding ways to laugh at the pain.”

Palmer highlighted the film’s deeper messages, comparing it to “Friday,” which, beneath its humor, addressed gun violence. “With this movie, it was the same thing,” she said. “It’s about real messages — gentrification, predatory lending, and the cycle of poverty.”

The film also nods to Black film history, with a soundtrack reminiscent of the Blaxploitation era. “The music may remind viewers a bit of Blaxploitation films, playing with satire while also speaking to the issues that are going on in the community,” Palmer explained.

“One of Them Days” features a star-studded cast, including comedians Katt Williams, Janelle James, Lil Rel Howery, and Gabrielle Dennis. SZA, in her acting debut, shines as Alyssa, while Palmer’s performance as Dreux showcases her comedic talent and charisma. “You start to wonder why Palmer isn’t one of the biggest stars in the world by now,” one critic noted.

The film’s humor is balanced with poignant moments, as Dreux and Alyssa navigate a series of misadventures, from a blood bank to a payday-loan office. The duo’s bond, rooted in shared history and economic struggles, drives the narrative, offering both laughs and a heartfelt look at resilience.

“One of Them Days” is a testament to the enduring appeal of buddy comedies, even as the genre evolves to reflect contemporary issues. With its mix of humor, heart, and social commentary, the film has struck a chord with audiences, proving that laughter can be a powerful tool for addressing life’s challenges.