One Of Them Days (2025)

🎬 One of Them Days (2025): A Rollercoaster of Friendship, Hustle, and Laughter 🎬

Image Source: IMP Awards 

Director: Lawrence Lamont
Writer: Syreeta Singleton
Producers: Issa Rae, Deniese Davis, Sara Rastogi, James Lopez, Poppy Hanks
Starring: Keke Palmer, SZA, Katt Williams, Vanessa Bell Calloway
Studio: TriStar Pictures & Hoorae Media
Release Date: January 17, 2025
Runtime: 97 minutes
Box Office Gross: $51.8 million

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🌟 Plot: A Day in the Life of Dreux & Alyssa

One of Them Days brings us into the fast-paced lives of two best friends, Dreux (Keke Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA), who live in the heart of Baldwin Village, Los Angeles. These two roommates are close-knit, adventurous, and constantly navigating the ups and downs of life. But when Alyssa’s shady boyfriend steals their rent money, they are left with just one day to figure out how to raise $1,500 to avoid eviction.

What follows is an uproarious yet heartfelt journey through a series of wild schemes — from selling rare sneakers to donating blood and everything in between. One of Them Days is not just a comedy; it's a portrayal of the resilience, strength, and pure determination that come from friendship, survival, and staying true to yourself.

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🎭 The Star-Studded Cast

💫 Keke Palmer (Dreux) – A standout performance from Palmer, who effortlessly captures the struggles and triumphs of Dreux, a waitress with dreams bigger than her bank account.
💫 SZA (Alyssa) – Making her acting debut, SZA brings charm, wit, and soul to Alyssa’s carefree, artistic spirit.
💫 Katt Williams (Lucky) – The legendary comedian adds depth and hilarity to the narrative, bringing a touch of mischief and wisdom to the story.
💫 Vanessa Bell Calloway (Mama Ruth) – Adds a powerful, seasoned presence to the ensemble.
💫 Amin Joseph (King Lolo) – A mysterious figure who brings danger and intrigue to the storyline, heightening the stakes for Dreux and Alyssa.

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🌍 Filming Locations: Real Streets, Real Stories

The film was shot entirely in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, capturing its raw energy and diverse neighborhoods. Highlights include:

• 4044 Gelber Place, Baldwin Hills – Dreux and Alyssa’s humble but cozy apartment complex.
• 3601 South La Brea Avenue – The "Payday Whenever" loan office that adds a twist to the plot.
• Norm’s Restaurant, 470 N La Cienega Blvd, West Hollywood – The iconic diner where Dreux hustles through a day of waiting tables.

These real, lived-in locations ground the film in authenticity, giving it an extra layer of realism that resonates with audiences.

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💬 Reception: From Audiences to Critics

Rotten Tomatoes: 94% approval from critics
Metacritic: 71/100 (generally favorable reviews)
CinemaScore: A– from audiences

Critics have lauded One of Them Days for its hilarious moments and its heartfelt portrayal of friendship. The performances from Palmer and SZA have been a major highlight, with both actors delivering charismatic and relatable characters. The film's humor is balanced with poignant moments, showcasing the ups and downs of real life — all while maintaining a lighthearted tone.

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💰 Box Office Success: A Surprising Hit

Despite being a modest indie film, One of Them Days exceeded expectations at the box office. Grossing $51.8 million worldwide, the film struck a chord with audiences looking for something fresh, funny, and grounded. The opening weekend pulled in an impressive $11.8 million, a testament to the growing fanbase for both Keke Palmer and SZA, and the buzz surrounding the film’s unique story.

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🏆 Themes and Takeaways: Friendship, Hustle, and Real-Life Struggles

One of Them Days isn't just a comedy — it's a deep dive into the struggles and triumphs of everyday people trying to survive in a world full of obstacles. The film touches on several powerful themes:

• Friendship: At its heart, One of Them Days is about the bond between Dreux and Alyssa. Their friendship is a testament to how, no matter how tough things get, a true friend will always be there to help you through.
• Economic Struggles: The hustle to raise rent money in a single day illustrates the harsh realities many people face in trying to make ends meet.
• Community: The film shows that, while you may be down and out, there’s always a community of people ready to help you rise.

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🎥 Production and Behind the Scenes

The film was produced on a modest budget of $14 million, with much of its charm coming from its real-world locations and the fantastic chemistry between the lead actors. The producers, including Issa Rae and Deniese Davis, ensured that the film stayed true to its roots, providing an authentic depiction of the hustle and grind.

Filming Locations:

• Los Angeles: From the bustling streets of Baldwin Village to the iconic Hollywood diner, the locations play a vital role in bringing the story to life.

Budget: $14 million
Box Office Gross: $51.8 million

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🎬 Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for 2025

If you’re looking for a movie that blends humor, heart, and a bit of hustle, One of Them Days is the perfect pick. With a star-studded cast, relatable themes, and a story that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for the underdog, it’s an unforgettable ride. Don’t miss it!

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📅 Where to Watch:

• Theatrical Release: January 17, 2025 (US & Canada)
• Streaming: Netflix (March 31, 2025, for 18 months), then Hulu
• DVD/Blu-ray Release: April 1, 2025

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🌟 A True Celebration of Friendship and Resilience

One of Them Days brings to the screen not just laughs but real-life struggles and triumphs. With incredible performances and a script that balances humor and heart, this film is one you’ll want to watch, re-watch, and share with your friends. It's not just a movie — it's an experience. Don't miss out on the hustle and the heart of One of Them Days!

Reference :

1. IMDb - One of Them Days (2025): IMDb

2. Rotten Tomatoes - One of Them Days: Rotten Tomatoes

3. Metacritic - One of Them Days: Metacritic