Common Sense Media Review
By Tara McNamara
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny, salty female friendship comedy with slapstick, weed.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
One of Them Days
What's the Story?
On the day that Dreaux (Keke Palmer) has a potentially life-changing job interview, her best friend and roommate, Alyssa (SZA), loses their rent money. Facing eviction if they don't come up with the rent by 6 p.m., the friends have ONE OF THEM DAYS, frantically trying to beat the clock to come up with the funds.
Is It Any Good?
This spiritual sister to Friday is uproariously funny and promises to have lasting appeal. Teens' interest may be particularly piqued by the presence of SZA, who makes a strong feature acting debut. And Palmer shows off immense comedic talent. Honestly, all of One of Them Days' cast members, both new and familiar faces, are perfect in their roles, especially Katt Williams as an unhoused man who tries to keep the girls out of trouble and Aziza Scott as the hilarious Big Booty Bully Berniece, a character who's likely to be referenced for decades to come. TikTok star Joshua Neal is also memorable in his first big-screen role.
While the two main characters do make a few head-thumping decisions, some moments are likely to both inform and stick with teens—like the importance of a good credit score, what to expect in a job interview, the power of community, and perhaps most importantly: Don't trust anyone with the rent money whose name isn't on the lease. But even if no lessons are learned, teens will definitely have a great time.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what makes Dreaux and Alyssa's friendship aspirational in One of Them Days. What's the difference between a good friend and a great one? How do Dreaux and Alyssa complement each other? Why is that a key element of buddy comedies?
Historically, buddy comedies for women are rare, not to mention comedies about Black female friendship. Why do you think that is? Why is representation important?
How do Dreaux and Alyssa demonstrate communication, teamwork, and perseverance? Why are these important life skills?
Facebook Marketplace plays a role in the story, with the characters talking about the potential risks that could be associated with using it. How do you keep safe when trying to buy or sell things online?
Imagine how different the violent content might be if this was a drama or horror movie instead of a comedy. How do the filmmakers keep perilous moments light?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 17, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : February 11, 2025
- Cast : Keke Palmer , SZA , Joshua David Neal
- Director : Lawrence Lamont
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Sony Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Friendship
- Character Strengths : Communication , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 119 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language throughout, sexual material and brief drug use
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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