by Tim Gordon
Tyler Perry’s Straw takes a bold step away from his usual high-drama, over-the-top antics, delivering a more grounded, emotionally driven story.
Drawing inspiration from films like John Q and Breaking, it follows the harrowing day of a woman who is already at the end of her rope, only to find herself in an impossible situation that pushes her further than she ever thought she could go. Taraji P. Henson plays the lead role of a mother struggling with being fired, evicted, and unable to provide something as simple as lunch for her daughter, all while trying to keep it together on the worst day of her life. Before long, she finds herself on the wrong side of the law, making headlines as the subject of a high-profile murder investigation.
Henson anchors this emotionally charged story with a performance that allows her to stretch her acting muscles, marking a second successful pairing with Perry after Acrimony. The film’s strength lies in its compelling ensemble, which includes Sherri Shepherd, Teyana Taylor, Glynn Turman, and Sinbad. Perry’s screenplay, while familiar in its focus on real-life struggles, avoids the typical melodrama of his past works, opting for a more plausible and restrained approach. The inclusion of a city-wide perspective on the unfolding events adds an element of authenticity and gravitas to the narrative.
Straw is a far cry from the “cinematic piñata” Perry’s films have sometimes been. Instead, it offers a nuanced character study that resonates emotionally, and Henson’s commanding performance is complemented by solid work from Taylor and Shepherd. It’s a film that will keep you invested in its characters and their journey, without feeling like it’s hitting you over the head with unnecessary spectacle.
Ultimately, whether Perry’s future as a filmmaker will continue to evolve into something more substantial than his past work remains to be seen. However, for now, Straw represents a promising step in the right direction, offering audiences a story that feels authentic, genuine, and moving.
Grade: B+