One of Them Days, directed by Lawrence Lamont, has brought fresh energy to cinemas in 2025. The buddy comedy has captured viewers’ hearts.
It has earned a stellar 94% critic score and a 91% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Its success signals a promising year for laughter-filled entertainment, according to USA Today.
ONE OF THEM DAYS
With a modest budget of $14 million (about R266 million), One of Them Days has already doubled its production costs.
The film grossed over $25 million (roughly R475 million) within weeks of its release on 17 January 2025. In a competitive landscape, it ranked third domestically last weekend, pulling in R133 million.
This performance is even more impressive considering the competition from major titles like Mufasa: The Lion King and Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
THE PLOT OF ‘ONE OF THEM DAYS’
The film follows best friends Dreux, played by Keke Palmer, and Alyssa. They are portrayed by Grammy-winning singer SZA, in her feature film debut.
The pair embarks on a hilarious and chaotic road trip to escape eviction.
Their chemistry is the film’s backbone. As Ross Bonaime from Collider observed, “Keke Palmer and SZA have great chemistry together.
KEKE PALMER AND SZA
Palmer shows off her comedic chops and delivers every time.” He added, “SZA, in her first major film role, holds her own as Alyssa. She’s a fantastic foil to Palmer’s Dreux.”
Audiences can relate to the film’s themes of friendship, resilience, and financial struggles, according to Variety.
The humour also resonates universally, offering both laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt scenes. The story is a reminder that even in tough times, a good friend can make all the difference.
The movie has already become the second-highest-grossing film of the year, only trailing Den of Thieves 2: Pantera.
KEKE PALMER SHINES IN ‘ONE OF THEM DAYS’
Yet, with more big titles expected soon, its position could shift. Still, the momentum for One of Them Days is undeniable.
The film’s ability to stand tall against blockbuster franchises proves its quality.
Fans of Keke Palmer will enjoy seeing her stretch her comedic muscles in new ways. Her performance as Dreux is both charming and relatable.
SZA’S PROMISING NEW CAREER
For SZA, this film marks a promising start in Hollywood. Critics agree she brings authenticity and energy to her role, making her a standout, according to Screen Rant.
Director Lawrence Lamont and writer Syreeta Singleton deserve credit for crafting a story that balances humour with heart.
The dialogue feels natural, the pacing brisk, and the humour sharp. Audiences leave the cinema smiling, making it a great option for a night out.
A FUN WATCH
If you’re looking for an uplifting comedy with memorable performances, One of Them Days is worth a watch.
It’s currently showing in cinemas and is perfect for anyone seeking laughter with a touch of soul. As Bonaime put it, “This film is a reminder of how good comedy can be when it has heart.”
With its relatable themes, brilliant cast, and comedic brilliance, One of Them Days is a must-see for South Africans who love a good laugh.
DID YOU EXPECT THE FILM TO DO SO WELL AT THE BOX OFFICE?
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