SZA and Keke Palmer see $11.6 million opening weekend for “One Of Them Days” film

Keke Palmer and SZA Shine in Box Office Hit “One of Them Days”

This Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, Keke Palmer and SZA brought audiences back to theaters with their hilarious buddy comedy One of Them Days. The film landed the number one spot on the North American box office charts, earning $11.6 million from 2,675 theaters in its opening weekend.

While Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King might surpass it by Monday’s holiday totals, the success of One of Them Days is a testament to its charm, humor, and heartfelt story.

What Is One of Them Days About?

One of Them Days follows two roommates and best friends, played by Keke Palmer and SZA, who find themselves in a sticky situation: they need to come up with rent money fast or face eviction. Packed with laugh-out-loud moments, the film’s relatable premise and authentic chemistry between the leads have resonated with viewers.

The movie’s success also marks a historic moment. It’s the first Black female-led theatrical comedy since Girls Trip in 2017, making its debut even more significant.

A Success Story

Sony Pictures invested just $14 million in the production of One of Them Days, and it’s on track to recoup its budget by Monday. This impressive feat highlights the film’s ability to draw crowds despite an overall slow weekend at the box office.

What’s the secret to its appeal? It’s a mix of clever writing, stellar performances, and the kind of relatable humor that speaks to audiences across generations. Plus, with a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, critics and viewers alike are loving it.

The Power of Representation

The film’s success isn’t just about its humor—it’s about representation. The story centers on two Black women navigating everyday struggles, offering a refreshing perspective in a genre that often overlooks these voices.

Representation in film is more than a trend; it’s a growing demand from audiences who want to see diverse stories on screen. Movies like One of Them Days remind us why authentic storytelling matters.

Why This Weekend’s Box Office Numbers Matter

The MLK Jr. holiday weekend is traditionally a slower time for movie theaters, but One of Them Days managed to stand out. Here’s why:

•Strong Performances: Keke Palmer, known for her comedic timing and acting versatility (Nope, Hustlers), delivers yet another standout performance. SZA, in her acting debut, proves her talents go beyond music.

•Positive Reviews: With glowing critical reception, the film benefited from strong word-of-mouth.

•Nostalgic Appeal: The film taps into the buddy-comedy genre while bringing a fresh, modern twist.

These factors combined to make One of Them Days the movie to see this weekend.

SZA’s Big Year Continues

While SZA shines in her role as Keke Palmer’s on-screen roommate, this film is just one piece of her incredible run. SZA is already dominating the music industry, and she’s showing no signs of slowing down.

In April, SZA will embark on her Grand National Tour with Kendrick Lamar, a collaboration that has fans buzzing. The two artists have released three tracks together since November:

•“Luther”

•“Gloria” (both on Kendrick’s GNX album)

•“30 for 30” (from SZA’s Lana album)

These tracks showcase the duo’s creative synergy and add to the excitement for their upcoming tour.

What Makes Buddy Comedies Timeless?

One reason One of Them Days resonates is its classic buddy-comedy formula. Movies like The Hangover, Step Brothers, and Girls Trip have proved that audiences love watching odd couples take on wild challenges.

Here’s what sets great buddy comedies apart:

1.Chemistry Between Leads

Keke Palmer and SZA share a natural, easy chemistry that keeps audiences engaged. Their banter and camaraderie feel genuine, making their friendship believable.

2.Relatable Stakes

Struggling to pay rent is a universally relatable challenge. The film keeps the stakes grounded, even as the comedy takes the story to absurd heights.

3.Universal Humor

While the story is rooted in the experiences of two Black women, the humor transcends demographics, appealing to a wide audience.

By blending these elements, One of Them Days balances nostalgia with fresh energy, ensuring its place among memorable comedies.

Keke Palmer: An Established Icon

Keke Palmer has been on a winning streak. With critically acclaimed performances in Nope and Hustlers, she’s proven herself as a versatile performer who can handle both comedy and drama.

Her role in One of Them Days showcases her comedic chops, reminding audiences why she’s one of the most exciting talents in Hollywood today.

SZA’s Transition from Music to Film

For SZA, One of Them Days marks a new chapter. Known for her soulful voice and award-winning music, SZA’s transition to acting is already earning praise.

Fans are eager to see what’s next for the multi-talented artist, especially with her upcoming tour and new music collaborations.

The Future of Black-Led Comedies

One of Them Days isn’t just a box-office hit—it’s a signal that audiences are hungry for more Black-led comedies. The success of films like Girls Trip and now One of Them Days highlights a gap in the market.

Studios should take note: investing in diverse stories pays off, both critically and financially.

Tips for Finding the Right Movie

When deciding what to watch, consider the following:

1.Check Reviews

Sites like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb can give you an idea of a movie’s reception.

2.Know Your Genre

Love comedies? Look for movies that blend humor with relatable stories.

3.Watch the Trailer

A good trailer can tell you if a movie matches your vibe.

4.Support Diverse Stories

Seeing diverse stories on screen enriches the movie industry and offers fresh perspectives.

Keke Palmer and SZA’s One of Them Days is more than just a box-office hit—it’s a celebration of friendship, humor, and representation. As it continues to gain momentum, the film serves as a reminder of the power of authentic storytelling.

Whether you’re a fan of buddy comedies, a Keke Palmer enthusiast, or a die-hard SZA supporter, this movie is a must-see. And with the Grand National Tour on the horizon, 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year for both stars.