The Straw Netflix movie is the latest dramatic thriller from Tyler Perry, starring Taraji P. Henson depicts a single mother dealing with various difficulties, ultimately arriving at her breaking point. Released on June 6, 2025, this emotional roller-coaster has sparked intense discussions about its powerful performances, shocking plot twists, and social commentary. If you’re wondering whether to watch Straw, this guide covers everything—from the trailer and cast to the ending explained and critical reception.
What Is Straw Netflix About?
Straw follows Janiyah (Taraji P. Henson,) a committed single parent juggling various jobs to provide for her ailing daughter, Aria. After a series of devastating events—losing her job, facing eviction, and having her daughter taken away by child services—Janiyah snaps, leading to a tense standoff at a bank. This film examines the themes of systemic neglect, mental health, and the hardships endured by single mothers in a world that shows little empathy.
Key Plot Points
- Janiyah’s daughter is removed by CPS due to misunderstood bruises.
- She loses her job after defending herself in a robbery.
- A racist cop harasses her, escalating her desperation.
- She accidentally holds up a bank, leading to a national outcry.
- The shocking development indicates that her daughter had succumbed the evening before
Straw Netflix Trailer: What to Expect
The Straw Netflix trailer sets up a high-stakes, emotional thriller with Taraji P. Henson delivering a heart-wrenching performance. Key moments include:
- Janiyah pleading with authorities to see her humanity.
- Gunfire, police standoffs, and public protests.
- Sherri Shepherd’s moving role as a sympathetic bank manager.
- The final line: “I just want to do what’s right for my baby.”.
Watch the trailer here: Netflix Tudum
Straw Netflix Cast: Who’s Who?
This film showcases a brilliant group of actors, with notable performances from:
| Actor | Role | Notable Traits |
| Taraji P. Henson | Janiyah Wiltkinson | A mother pushed to her limit |
| Sherri Shepherd | Nicole (Bank Manager) | Shows unexpected empathy |
| Teyana Taylor | Detective Raymond | A cop who sees Janiyah’s pain |
| Glynn Turman | Richard (Janiyah’s Boss) | Cold and unsympathetic |
| Sinbad | Benny (Neighbor) | Witnesses Janiyah’s kindness |
Henson’s performance is being called “Oscar-worthy” by critics.
Straw Netflix Reviews: What Are Critics Saying?
The film has divided critics, with praise for Henson’s acting but criticism for Tyler Perry’s heavy-handed storytelling.
Positive Reviews
✅ “Taraji P. Henson delivers a powerhouse performance—raw, emotional, and unforgettable.” – The Guardian.
Negative Reviews
❌ “The plot feels forced, with too many contrived tragedies.” – Decider.
❌ “Cheap production values undermine the film’s emotional weight.” – Screen Rant.
Straw Netflix Rating
- IMDb: 7.1/10 (based on early audience scores).
- Rotten Tomatoes: 68% critics, 82% audience.
Straw Netflix Ending Explained (Spoilers!)
The film’s jaw-dropping twist reveals that Aria died the night before from a seizure, meaning Janiyah was hallucinating her presence all day. The ending unfolds in two ways:
- The Fake-Out Ending
- Police storm the bank and shoot Janiyah dead.
- Nicole weeps over her body.
- The Real Ending
- Nicole helps Janiyah surrender safely.
- Janiyah is arrested but alive, leaving her fate open-ended.
Tyler Perry originally planned for Janiyah to die but changed it to avoid crushing audiences.
Why Straw Netflix Is Trending
- Taraji P. Henson’s Performance – Her raw emotion is the film’s backbone.
- Social Commentary – Highlights systemic failures affecting single mothers.
- Shocking Twist – The daughter’s death recontextualizes the entire story.
- Public Protests in the Film – Mirrors real-world police brutality debates.
FAQs About Straw Netflix
1. Is Straw based on a true story?
No, but it reflects real struggles of single mothers and systemic neglect.
2. Does Janiyah die at the end?
No—the fake-out death scene is reversed, and she’s arrested instead.
3. Why was there no Amber Alert for Janiyah’s daughter?
Because Aria was already dead—Janiyah was hallucinating.
4. How long is Straw on Netflix?
1 hour 45 minutes.
5. Will there be a sequel?
Unlikely, given the conclusive ending.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch Straw on Netflix?
If you love intense dramas with stellar acting, Straw is worth watching—despite its flaws. Taraji P. Henson’s performance alone makes it compelling, though the overly tragic plot may frustrate some viewers.
Have you seen Straw? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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