Warning: Some SPOILERS lie ahead for Straw!
Tyler Perry is undoubtedly one of the most industrious directors in the industry, but could his relentless pace be compromising the quality of his narratives? In his latest venture, Straw, we witness an ambitious attempt to channel societal frustrations through the lens of a struggling single mother. While there are moments that resonate, this journey often feels more exhausting than engaging.
A Downtrodden Plot: More Groan-Worthy Than Gripping
Pushed to the Brink: Frustration Abounds
Stories of individuals reaching their breaking point after a torturous day demand a sense of urgency, but Straw‘s setup is disappointingly forced. Janiyah, played by Taraji P. Henson, encounters a series of calamities—firing from her job, the threat of eviction, and an enraged off-duty police officer impounding her car. Each event pushes her closer to a dangerous precipice.
One of my biggest issues with the movie’s plot is its ending, which rapidly devolves into a cop-out conclusion.
As a viewer, you’ll find frustration mounting when Janiyah encounters the police after a chaotic series of events that feel contrived and predictable. What could have been a gripping LGBTQ representation quickly turns into an irritating exercise in narrative shortcuts. For example, Janiyah stops a robbery yet is still blamed for the chaos that ensues, raising glaring questions about logic and character motivation.
Unrealized Potential: A Cheaply Made Film
Visuals Leave Much to Be Desired
Filmed in Georgia over a mere four days, Straw suffers tremendously from its lackluster production quality. There’s little polish in its aesthetic; it’s hard to shake the feeling that the film utilized real businesses without any meaningful creative touch. The sets feel bland, costumes simplistic, and even the anticipated rainstorm is delivered with a clumsy execution, undermining the film’s dramatic stakes.
A Star Performance Amidst Mediocrity
Sherri Shepherd: A Bright Spot
Despite the film’s many missteps, one shining beacon is undeniably Taraji P. Henson. Her portrayal of Janiyah is so engaging that it compels you to overlook some of the film’s flaws. Henson’s emotional depth transforms her character’s misfortunes into a deeply felt experience. Notably, her powerful monologue acts as a high point, encapsulating her struggles with raw honesty.
Adding to this emotional rollercoaster is Sherri Shepherd, who offers a surprising depth to her role as Nicole, the bank manager. Shepherd’s performance anchors the story, providing a sense of empathy that complements Henson’s tumultuous journey.
Straw is now streaming on Netflix.
Pros & Cons
- Taraji P. Henson’s performance is worthy of accolades.
- Emotionally resonant late-game plot twist.
Cons
- Plot feels contrived and forced.
- Visuals and production design lack quality.
- Social commentary is too obvious.
