Overview

• Straw, written and directed by Tyler Perry, premiered on Netflix June 6 and follows Janiyah, a single Black mother, through a cascade of hardships that culminate in an unintended bank hostage situation.
• Taraji P. Henson’s portrayal of Janiyah has drawn widespread acclaim for its emotional intensity and authenticity, anchoring the film’s urgent tone.
• Critics have lauded the movie’s timely commentary on systemic racism and poverty but noted its melodramatic tone and heavy-handed messaging.
• Supporting performances by Sherri Shepherd as a sympathetic bank manager and Teyana Taylor as a negotiator provide moments of empathy and sisterhood during the crisis.
• Despite narrative contrivances and pacing issues, many consider Straw one of Perry’s more successful projects, commending its empathetic portrayal of working-class struggles.