Reel Review: Straw

Straw drops you into Janiyah’s worst day—and never lets go. Taraji P. Henson carries the role with fierce honesty, flooding the screen with emotion. The story hits on eviction, illness, unpredictable violence, and a hostage standoff that feels all too plausible. Sherri Shepherd and Teyana Taylor ground the chaos with quiet strength. Tyler Perry has something to say—but his delivery is loud, messy, and sometimes too obvious. Still, certain scenes land hard. This movie isn’t subtle, but it conveys its point effectively. Mitten’s Verdict: Heavy, tense, and emotionally raw—even when the delivery rattles. Rated: 5.9 out of 10.