What turns a terrible day for one woman into a full-blown hostage crisis? Netflix’s latest psychological thriller, Straw, directed by Tyler Perry, dives into exactly when a mother is pushed to the edge in a world that keeps failing her. Starring Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah, a struggling single mom, this film dropped on June 6, 2025, and it’s already blowing up the platform’s trending charts.
What’s Good?
Chemistry & Performances
Oh man, Taraji P. Henson is a force of nature. Her portrayal of Janiyah is fierce, heartbreaking, and completely magnetic. Supporting actors like Sherri Shepherd and Teyana Taylor round out the cast beautifully with powerful emotional weight.
Emotional Punch & Social Themes
The story hits hard on real issues such as poverty, systemic failure, and mental health.
Think the raw tension of Dog Day Afternoon, reimagined with Tyler Perry’s emotional depth and modern storytelling.
It’s Trending already.
It debuted straight at #1 on Netflix’s global charts. The audience is hooked, especially after a twist that had many screaming, “Wait, WHAT?!”
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What’s Not So Good?
Heavy-Handed Drama
C’mon, sometimes the storytelling feels a bit like it’s trying too hard. The pacing zigzags, and a few plot points stretch believability… like fast-forward weather changes and characters behaving more like they’re in a soap opera than a thriller.
Inconsistency in Tone
Some moments that should’ve simmered are rushed. It feels like we’re sprinting through emotional landmines instead of soaking in the pain.
Why It’s Trending And Making People Cry
Straw isn’t just climbing Netflix charts because of its big names; it’s breaking hearts across the internet. On Reddit and TikTok, users are openly weeping over the film’s final scenes, especially Taraji P. Henson’s raw breakdown and the gut-punch twist involving her daughter.
Threads titled “That monologue wrecked me” and “This hit too close to home” have exploded with emotional reactions. The film’s honest portrayal of burnout, motherhood, and desperation is striking a chord. Viewers say they feel seen… not just entertained. It’s not just a thriller; it’s a mirror to real-world pain, and that’s exactly why people can’t stop talking about it.
Worth Watching?
Absolutely Yes… Just be ready, it comes with a bit of a caution sign. If you love gripping performances and don’t mind a little over-the-top flair, Straw delivers. Taraji’s performance alone is worth the watch. But if you’re not into emotional chaos with your crime thrillers, you might find it a bit too spicy.
Straw is raw, relevant, and emotionally loaded. While it’s not flawless, it punches with purpose. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you stirred and unsettled like sipping black coffee with a ghost pepper chaser.
It’s trending because it dares to be dramatic, messy, and unfiltered just like life sometimes. Dive in, and brace yourself. This one’s gonna stay with you.
Ratings – 7.9 / 10 ⭐
Written By MANSI SINGH