Films for Breakfast

One of Them Days, starring seasoned actress Keke Palmer and debuting SZA in her first leading role, follows two best friends, Drux (Keke Palmer) & Alyssa (SZA), as they do everything in their power not to get evicted from their home. The title clearly describes those days full of hijinx, shenanigans, and antics that only pure love for your best friend can get you through the day; and this pure love between the main character is so tangible due to Keke Palmer & SZA’s fabulous chemistry with each other. All the laughs, side eyes, insults, and smiles are palpable because of the actors’ passionate and genuine connection on screen.

From the films’ phenomenal screenplay, inventive direction, impressive production design and effective editing, all of these factors service furthering the beautiful absurdity this film has to offer. In many ways, this is Superbad (2007) for the girlies – with all the running around, physical fights, fabulous fashion, silly one-liners, lively music, and ultimate best friend problem-solving. The script truly shines through the stars as it has an inside joke inclusivity; although we have only just met Drux & Alyssa, their connection magnetizes you to understanding the intricacies of their life and jokes. At times, I could barely hear the dialogue because of the roaring laughter coming from all around the theater. 

Keke Palmer’s charisma is unmatched; it oozes from her so effortlessly that you almost remember she is acting. Her witty line delivery and overall demeanor truly showcase her star power. I must admit my bias that I have been a dear admirer of Keke Palmer since Scream Queens (2015), and watching her grow from an actress to being a producer for One of them days warms my heart. Although I personally do not know much about SZA, she perfectly plays a stupid well-intentioned friend. Alyssa feels very fleshed out through her manifestations of the universe and the constant antics of getting that bag. She matches Drux’s hilarious nature with great comedic timing. 

As a sucker for physical comedy, I was devouring every moment of movement from spills, slips, falls, punches & booty slamming I was cackling, especially when Berniece (Aziza Scott) was Terminator 2 sprinting. The supporting cast embodied their characters & used their limited screen time to make a hysterical impression. I was truly amazed at how naturally all the stories intertwined; one of the strongest aspects of this film is its script; it’s such a simple modern plot that was executed to comedic gold. The fashion in this film really helped solidify all the characters in the eclectic story. I especially loved the end-credit scenes, as I love knowing where characters end up.

Lawrence Lamont’s directing debut genuinely felt like you were witnessing one of the unluckiest days of these two girls and their community. This is the type of movie that you MUST see with your best friend because it is all about the absurd shenanigans you do with and for your best friend. I was lucky enough to get to take one of my best friends to see this film, and we giggled all the way to our cars about how it’s been too long since we genuinely laughed this hard while watching a movie. My best friend Tiffani and I highly recommend you go see this movie so that you can laugh until your ribs hurt.