Straw – WatchMoviesOnline.in

Review by MD Ekram Parvez – Watchmoviesonline.in

Rating: 4/5

“Straw” is a gripping thriller that delves into the life of a single mother navigating through a series of unfortunate events. Directed by Tyler Perry, the film stars Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah Wiltkinson, whose life spirals into chaos as she becomes the prime suspect in a crime she never intended to commit. The narrative is a compelling exploration of desperation and survival, set against the backdrop of an indifferent world.

The film chronicles Janiyah’s journey from a hardworking single mother to a woman pushed to the brink by circumstances beyond her control. Taraji P. Henson delivers a powerful performance, embodying the struggles and resilience of her character. The supporting cast, including Sherri Shepherd and Teyana Taylor, adds depth to the story, making the emotional core of the film resonate with the audience.

However, the narrative takes a dramatic turn as Janiyah’s world unravels, leading to a tense and suspenseful climax. The film’s exploration of social issues and the fight against the system adds layers to the story, making it more than just a thriller. Despite some predictable moments, the film manages to keep the audience engaged with its twists and turns.

Despite these shortcomings, “Straw” offers a decent timepass with fresh faces and an unconventional plot. It’s a lighthearted entertainer that, while not a cinematic masterpiece, provides a fun escape for audiences looking for a good laugh and engaging performances.

Top Reviews From Other Critics

Rotten Tomatoes

Rating: 3/5

“Straw” has a gripping premise and a few genuinely tense moments, but it struggles under the weight of its chaotic storytelling and over-the-top characters. The film follows a single mother whose life spirals into chaos, becoming the prime suspect in a crime she never meant to commit. However, the execution is marred by poor writing and direction, making the narrative feel disjointed. Read The Full Review Here.

IMDb

Rating: 3.5/5

“Straw” strives to be a tense, suspenseful thriller with a unique twist, but its execution is marred by poor writing and direction. The film struggles to find its identity, oscillating between being a suspenseful drama and a social issue thriller without finding a comfortable balance between the two. The suspense is mostly forced and rarely lands effectively, making the experience feel tedious instead of entertaining. Read The Full Review Here.

Netflix Tudum

Rating: 3/5

“Straw” is a suspenseful, mass entertainer that makes for a decent watch. While the film is not a cinematic masterpiece, it is far better than some highly promoted projects. The story is fresh, performances are engaging, and the suspense is well-placed, making the film an enjoyable watch. The film introduces a new lead actor who delivers a commendable performance, making it a worthwhile experience. Read The Full Review Here.

Straw: Everything You Need to Know

Director

Release Date

• June 6, 2025
• Where: Netflix

Run Time

Cast

• Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah Wiltkinson
• Sherri Shepherd as Nicole
• Teyana Taylor as Det. Kay Raymond
• Sinbad as Benny
• Rockmond Dunbar as Chief Wilson
• Ashley Versher as Tessa George
• Mike Merrill as Det. Grimes
• Glynn Turman as Richard

With its gripping premise and engaging performances, “Straw” is a must-watch for fans of thrillers and suspenseful dramas.