When it comes to musical duos making waves on the big screen, One of Them Days might just have the potential to outshine Wicked in a way few expected. While Wicked has the star power of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, One of Them Days brings a fresh and unexpected energy—especially with SZA’s acting debut—that could make it the superior duo-driven film.
From classic comedies to powerful dramas, Black cinema has given us some of the most iconic duos in film history. Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall set the bar high with their dynamic chemistry in Coming to America, seamlessly switching between multiple hilarious characters. Ice Cube and Chris Tucker delivered unforgettable comedic timing in Friday, a film that remains a cultural staple. In the action genre, Will Smith and Martin Lawrence brought an unbeatable mix of humor and high-energy stunts to Bad Boys. Meanwhile, Angela Bassett and Whitney Houston showcased sisterhood and resilience in Waiting to Exhale. More recently, Daniel Kaluuya and Jodie Turner-Smith’s gripping performances in Queen & Slim gave audiences a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde with deeper social commentary. Whether in comedy, drama, or action, these duos have left a lasting impact on Black cinema and continue to influence new generations of filmmakers. The film adaptation of Wicked attracted a diverse audience, with demographic data indicating that approximately 13% of viewers were Black. (Gaga Daily) Implying that the movie did resonate with a segment of the Black community, contributing to its overall box office success. But when the duo are from the “same cloth”, it hits different.
SZA stepping into the acting world with One of Them Days is one of the biggest reasons this film resonates. Fans already connect with her emotionally raw music, and she brings that same authenticity to the screen. The filmmaker, Syreeta Singleton, daughter of the late legendary filmmaker John Singleton, was very intentional when choosing the who would play the main characters Dreux & Alyssa. Singleton told Teen Vogue that SZA and Keke Palmer would “bring authenticity to the film’s portrayal of Black female friendship. Palmer’s comedic chops and screen presence made her perfect for Dreux, while SZA’s natural charisma and depth brought freshness to Alyssa.” The film’s producer, Issa Rae, shared a similar sentiment on SZA and Palmer’s value. Notably famous for award-winning projects like Awkward Black Girl, Insecure and Rap Sh!t, Issa Rae’s DNA mark of advocacy for Black women is all over this film.
One standout scene—where her character has an intimate, vulnerable moment at a family gathering—feels so real that it mirrors the kind of heartfelt kitchen-table conversations many Black households know well. It’s not just about what’s said; it’s about the unspoken emotions, the side-eyes from elders, and the love laced with tough lessons. SZA’s performance in these moments makes the film feel personal rather than just another Hollywood production.
While Wicked is built on an established Broadway legacy, One of Them Days thrives on natural chemistry. The duo at the heart of the film moves effortlessly through scenes that reflect real Black experiences—whether it’s the heated but loving debate at the barbershop, the church scene where the choir’s harmonies feel like Sunday morning at Big Mama’s house, or the late-night drive-through stop for food that turns into an impromptu therapy session. These moments are not just for show; they are lived-in, relatable, and culturally rich in a way Wicked simply doesn’t attempt. To be honest, it cant, and was never intended to be that.
Musically, Wicked has its Broadway classics, but One of Them Days offers a soundtrack that blends old-school soul, modern R&B, and hip-hop, making the emotions hit deeper. SZA’s musical background shines through in her performance, and there’s one moment—when her character sings a stripped-down, heart-wrenching melody during a scene of quiet reflection—that feels like a spiritual successor to the rawness of Lauryn Hill in Sister Act 2. The music isn’t just a background element; it’s woven into the story in a way that feels organic and necessary.
While Wicked is undoubtedly a ground-braking success, One of Them Days has the potential to be the more culturally impactful film. It taps into a lived experience that doesn’t need grand fantasy elements to feel magical. SZA’s acting debut alone makes it worth watching, but the duo at its heart, the authenticity of the story, and the deeply relatable scenes make it a film that will stick with audiences long after the credits roll.
What are your thoughts—does One of Them Days feel like the type of film that could have long-lasting cultural impact?