SZA and Keke Palmer to return in “One Of Them Days” sequel

SZA and Keke Palmer to return in “One Of Them Days” sequel

TriStar Pictures has officially announced that a sequel to the breakout hit One of Them Days is in early development, per Variety. With Keke Palmer and SZA expected to reprise their roles, and the original creative team returning — including director Lawrence Lamont and writer Syreeta Singleton — fans have plenty to be excited about.

The original film, a sharp and hilarious R-rated comedy, was released in January and quickly became a cultural sensation. Produced by Issa Rae’s Hoorae Media and co-financed by Macro Film Studios, the movie grossed over $50 million worldwide, a significant figure for a mid-budget film. Beyond ticket sales, it held a strong presence on Netflix, remaining in the platform’s Top 10 for three consecutive weeks.

Here’s everything you need to know about the sequel — and why it matters.

The First Film: A Modern-Day Classic in the Making

When One of Them Days hit theaters, it came in with little fanfare — but left with a big impact. Set in South Los Angeles, the story follows best friends and roommates Dreux (Palmer) and Alyssa (SZA), who find themselves facing eviction after Alyssa’s boyfriend irresponsibly blows their rent money. To make matters worse, the crisis unfolds on the same day Dreux has a major job interview — one that could change her life.

The film was praised for its relatable humor, heartfelt storytelling, and vibrant setting. Critics highlighted how it balanced outrageous comedy with grounded emotion — a tough feat for any genre. With a 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes, it became a darling of both fans and film critics, drawing comparisons to iconic comedies like Friday and Girls Trip.

But what really made the movie stand out? Its authentic representation. The film spotlighted Black female friendship, community, and ambition — themes that are often underrepresented in Hollywood comedies. The dynamic between Palmer and SZA was electric, drawing praise for their chemistry and comedic timing.

What We Know About the Sequel

Plot details for the One of Them Days sequel remain under wraps, but the original team is returning — which is promising. Lawrence Lamont, making his feature debut with the first movie, is back in the director’s chair. Syreeta Singleton, whose script skillfully captured the voice of modern-day Black Los Angeles, returns as screenwriter. Also returning are Hoorae’s Sara Rastogi, Macro’s James Lopez, and Poppy Hanks on the producing team, ensuring the creative DNA stays consistent.

While we don’t yet know what Dreux and Alyssa will be up to next, we can guess the sequel will build on the original’s themes of loyalty, resilience, and hustle. Given the film’s love for blending absurdity with grounded issues like housing insecurity, gentrification, and job struggles, expect more of the same — but bigger.

Why Fans Are So Invested

One of the reasons One of Them Days resonated is because it reflected real life — messy, funny, unpredictable life. It showcased young women trying to survive in a city that’s constantly changing, without turning their experiences into clichés. Fans related to Dreux’s dream-chasing energy and Alyssa’s carefree, artistic chaos. Their friendship wasn’t perfect, but it was real — and real friendships make for rich storytelling.

In an entertainment landscape dominated by reboots and franchises, One of Them Days felt fresh and grounded. It didn’t rely on spectacle — it relied on heart and humor. The sequel has the opportunity to not only continue that story but deepen it.

Issa Rae’s Influence and the Power of Black-Led Comedy

Behind the scenes, the film’s success is also a testament to Issa Rae’s vision and consistency in championing Black voices. As one of the executive producers, Rae continues to shape the industry by giving space to emerging talents — like Lamont and Singleton — and celebrating everyday Black life without trauma at its center.

Hoorae Media, Rae’s production company, has been behind several culturally significant projects, and One of Them Days fits squarely within that mission. The success of the film reflects the growing demand for Black-led stories that are universal yet specific, entertaining yet meaningful.

This also speaks to an truth in the world of film and television: representation matters. Audiences want to see themselves reflected — not in polished, unrealistic narratives, but in stories that acknowledge the complexities of life. Comedy, when done right, can be a powerful vehicle for that reflection.

What the Sequel Needs to Succeed

Sequels can be tricky. The challenge will be staying true to what made the original special, without just repeating the same formula. That means:

• Evolving the characters without losing what made them lovable.
• Expanding the world of South LA and showing more of its nuances.
• Introducing new supporting characters who can stand toe-to-toe with Palmer and SZA.
• Keeping the balance between social commentary and laugh-out-loud moments.

There’s also room for more musical and visual creativity. With SZA involved, perhaps the sequel could lean more into soundtrack or music-video-style sequences that deepen her character’s world.

South Los Angeles as a Character

One underappreciated element of the original film is its setting: South Los Angeles. The neighborhood isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a character in itself. From the corner stores to the street murals, the film created a vivid, living world. It’s essential that the sequel preserves this.

Too often, LA-based films show only the glossy, commercial parts of the city. One of Them Days showcased a community filled with color, culture, and character. This authenticity helped the movie connect with locals and viewers nationwide who could recognize similar stories in their own hometowns.

Streaming Success and Cultural Footprint

Beyond the box office, One of Them Days became a hit on Netflix, helping it reach an even broader audience. In today’s hybrid release world, streaming success is as vital as ticket sales. The movie’s performance on the platform is a testament to its rewatchability and word-of-mouth appeal.

Expect the sequel to follow a similar path — maybe with a dual release strategy. Either way, the film’s popularity ensures that it won’t be ignored.

A Comedy Franchise with Heart

As anticipation builds for the One of Them Days sequel, fans and critics alike are eager to see what comes next. With the original team intact, the story poised to grow, and a loyal fanbase ready to support it, the stage is set for another hit.

This isn’t just another comedy. It’s a franchise with cultural significance, relatable storytelling, and unforgettable characters. For anyone who’s ever had “one of them days,” this film is a welcome reminder that laughter, love, and friendship can get us through just about anything.