Tyler Perry returns with a powerful psychological drama, Straw, now streaming on Netflix as of June 6, 2025. This intense, emotionally charged film stars Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah Wiltkinson, a determined single mother pushed to her breaking point. Directed, written, and produced by Perry himself, Straw explores the raw realities faced by many—and the desperation that can follow when a system fails you. Here’s a complete look at what makes this film a must-watch:

🌪️ Plot Unfolding

The story tracks a single catastrophic day in Janiyah’s life—eviction threats, job loss, eviction, and mounting pressure as her daughter, Aria (Gabby Jackson), battles illness. Janiyah’s final straw leads to a startling incident: she finds herself in a bank standoff after accidentally killing a robber and desperately trying to access her paycheck to provide for Aria

Watch Trailler: 

✨ Stellar Cast & Performances

• Taraji P. Henson (Janiyah Wiltkinson): Delivers a gripping performance, drawing on her own experiences to lend authenticity to this role .

• Sherri Shepherd (Nicole): Plays the bank manager who connects and empathizes with Janiyah in the standoff

• Teyana Taylor (Detective Kay Raymond): Perry praises Taylor’s growth and natural talent in handling the role of negotiator

• Sinbad, Glynn Turman, Rockmond Dunbar: Round out the powerful ensemble

💔 Themes & Emotional Impact

Straw is a psychological crime drama that spotlights systemic injustice and the often unseen struggles of single Black mothers. As Perry notes, “Straw is about a woman who reaches her tipping point,” underscoring how humanity can fracture under relentless hardship . The film delves into desperate resilience, mental breakdown, and social pressure under crisis.

🎥 Critical Reception & Audience Response

• Viewership Success: Nearly 49 million views in the second week—Netflix’s most-watched film in 2025

• Critical Appraisal:

  • Praised as a poignant portrayal of poverty, resilience, and empathy by The Washington Post .

  • Entertainment Weekly and The Guardian acknowledge its emotional intensity and acting strength, while also noting melodramatic plot turns .

  • Decider labeled it “well-meaning but clumsy,” calling Henson and Shepherd’s performances standout amidst some clichés

• Audience Voices: Reddit threads reflect mixed opinions—some viewers find it “over the top,” while others connect deeply with its themes .

🧭 Why STRAW Matters

• Cultural Relevance: Tackles pressing social issues—economic inequality, healthcare access, and the resilience required to survive them.

• Performance Showcase: Offers Taraji Henson a platform for one of her most raw and compelling performances.

• Perry’s Evolution: Marks one of Perry’s most socially-conscious works, echoing films like Dog Day Afternoon while highlighting systemic faults

🔍 Final Verdict

Straw is not a light watch—but it’s powerful and poignant. With gripping performances and urgent themes, it’s a timely film with emotional depth. Though its dramatic twists may strain realism, it tackles critical issues and features an unforgettable performance from Taraji Henson.

✅ Recommended For:

Even former First Lady Michelle Obama, while speaking with Taraji P. Henson on The IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson Podcast, said, “The trailer brought me to tears:” 

” And then to see the trailer of Straw, which is the story of Black women at the edge of Everything and just the trailer alone, as Craig said, has- brings you to tears.”

• Fans of intense, character-driven dramas.

• Viewers who appreciate social realism and strong female leads.

• Anyone seeking bold storytelling with big emotional stakes.