Audiences were first introduced to the talented actress and entertainer Keke Palmer and the accomplished artist SZA when they appeared together on “Saturday Night Live” in 2022. Fast forward to today, and the duo has become box office sensations with their film “One of Them Days” defying expectations by claiming the top spot in the comedy genre, second only to Disney’s recent release “Mufasa” by Barry Jenkins during the MLK holiday weekend.
Drawing parallels to the beloved 1995 buddy comedy “Friday,” “One of Them Days,” penned by Syreeta Singleton, follows two best friends and roommates: Palmer’s Dreux, the responsible one, and SZA’s Alyssa, the carefree spirit. The storyline revolves around their race against time to gather rent money to avoid eviction, showcasing their adventures and the valuable lessons they learn along the way.
Speaking about her involvement in the film, Palmer, who co-produced the movie with Issa Rae, expressed a personal connection to the narrative, describing it as a tale of two young women navigating life in an L.A. neighborhood, resonant with the films she cherished growing up, typically featuring male leads. Embracing the opportunity to act in and produce a movie centering on women while paying tribute to genre classics like “Let’s Do It Again” and “Bad Boys,” Palmer found the experience both fulfilling and challenging.
Transitioning behind the camera for a feature film marked a new chapter for Palmer, who previously appeared in Jordan Peele’s “Nope.” Despite the demanding nature of the project, Palmer maintained focus on her character Dreux, balancing the intricacies of filmmaking with studio expectations, emphasizing the collaborative effort required in such endeavors.
Beyond its comedic elements and stellar performances by comedians such as Katt Williams and Janelle James, Lawrence Lamont’s debut as a director in “One of Them Days” delves into more profound themes, using humor to illuminate societal issues. In Rae’s words, the film reflects the current economic challenges and the resilience needed to navigate them, offering a blend of humor and poignant commentary.
Palmer underlines the social commentary embedded in the film, drawing parallels to the underlying messages in “Friday” regarding gun violence and societal struggles. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the deeper themes at play amidst the laughter, highlighting the film’s efforts to address issues like poverty and the complexities of upward mobility.
In a candid conversation with a student grappling with the weight of student loans and the encroaching effects of gentrification, the question of how to navigate the ongoing cycle of financial strain looms large. The individual’s musings reflect a broader sentiment among many facing similar challenges in an ever-shifting urban landscape.
Titled “One of Them Days,” the project not only pays homage to Black film history but also delves into contemporary issues with a nuanced touch. Actress and singer Keke Palmer, who is at the helm of this creative endeavor, emphasizes the soundtrack’s subtle nod to the Blaxploitation era, blending satire with a poignant reflection of the societal upheavals experienced in neighborhoods.
Palmer underscores the importance of art in shedding light on pressing concerns like gentrification, systemic racism, and predatory lending practices. Through the lens of “One of Them Days,” these weighty topics are brought to the forefront, prompting viewers to consider the complexities of modern urban life while also fostering a sense of hope, pride, and empathy.
As the narrative unfolds, the struggle to repay student loans intersects with the broader narrative of displacement and economic instability fueled by gentrification. The protagonist’s introspective questioning mirrors the anxieties of many who find themselves marginalized and pushed to the fringes of a rapidly transforming cityscape.
“One of Them Days” serves as a poignant reflection of the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals and communities in the face of relentless urban development. By intertwining themes of resilience, community solidarity, and the quest for economic justice, Palmer’s project offers a compelling exploration of the realities often overlooked in mainstream discourse.
Through her artistic vision, Palmer invites audiences to engage with the complexities of contemporary urban life, urging reflection on the impact of gentrification, racial inequities, and financial precarity. “One of Them Days” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering a deeper understanding of the struggles that define modern-day existence.
In a world where economic pressures and systemic injustices continue to shape our daily experiences, projects like “One of Them Days” serve as a vital reminder of the resilience and creativity inherent in communities facing adversity. By amplifying voices that are often silenced and shedding light on the intersections of race, class, and power dynamics, Palmer’s work transcends entertainment, offering a powerful commentary on the urgent issues of our time.
As audiences immerse themselves in the world of “One of Them Days,” they are prompted to confront uncomfortable truths and reckon with the complexities of a society grappling with profound transformation. Through her artistry and storytelling prowess, Palmer ignites a conversation that transcends the screen, inviting viewers to question, empathize, and ultimately strive for a more just and equitable future for all.
