Netflix’s top 10 list is in a constant state of flux, with new titles being added to the streaming service every week. Recently, the latest psychological thriller from Tyler Perry has surged to the No. 1 position after its premiere on June 6. Titled “Straw,” this gripping film follows the journey of a single mother whose already fragile world begins to unravel in a single day. As the pressures of home, work, and the very system designed to protect her mount, she is pushed to her breaking point. This emotionally charged narrative explores what happens when someone reaches their last straw.
It’s no surprise that “Straw” has captured the attention of viewers and claimed the top spot on the U.S. trending list. With its taut storytelling, elements of crime drama, and unexpected plot twists, this new release has all the ingredients that audiences crave. If you’ve seen “Straw” featured prominently on your Netflix homepage, here’s everything you need to know before adding it to your watchlist.
“Straw” centers around Janiyah Wiltkinson (played by Taraji P. Henson), a single mother living in Atlanta whose life begins to fall apart over the course of one harrowing day. After being unexpectedly fired from her job, Janiyah returns home only to find an eviction notice on her apartment door. With her daughter suffering from a chronic illness, they urgently require medication that they can no longer afford. Desperate for assistance, Janiyah reaches out to legal channels, but she is met with indifference and bureaucratic hurdles at every turn. As she faces unthinkable decisions in a world that consistently turns its back on her, the film challenges viewers to confront how far one woman will go when pushed beyond her limits.
“Straw” stands out as one of Perry’s strongest films since he began his collaboration with Netflix. While many of his releases quickly ascend to the top of the charts, this particular film earns its position through compelling storytelling and emotional depth. The movie doesn’t shy away from raw emotion, ensuring that every moment resonates deeply with viewers. The film opens with a deliberate examination of Janiyah’s life, using muted colors and mundane details, such as unwashed dishes, to set the stage. As the narrative progresses, the pace accelerates, building tension that fully immerses the audience.
Within just 24 hours, Janiyah’s world collapses, revealing that she is not simply facing a string of bad luck. The film portrays a series of escalating crises: she loses her job and access to her finances, child services threatens to take her daughter away, and a police officer issues her a ticket and tows her car after a minor accident. Following her eviction, her belongings are left in the rain, and when she returns for her last paycheck, she becomes embroiled in a deadly armed robbery. The harrowing events compel viewers to root for Janiyah and hope for her happy ending, although, as with most of Perry’s work, such happiness is not always guaranteed.
At the heart of this gripping thriller is Taraji P. Henson’s powerful performance, which is a significant reason for the film's appeal. Henson fully embodies Janiyah’s heartbreak and struggles, delivering an emotional monologue that stands out as one of the movie's most unforgettable moments. However, while her performance captivates, the film does struggle with some familiar issues seen in Perry's filmography. The plot becomes convoluted, particularly with the introduction of an FBI subplot, and some emotional scenes risk tipping into melodrama. For example, Janiyah’s dramatic collapse in the rain, while poignant, may feel overdone to some viewers.
The twist ending, while unexpected, may leave some viewers feeling conflicted. Although it adds a new layer to the narrative, it could also be argued that the film’s impact would have been stronger without it. Nevertheless, fans of intense psychological thrillers will likely find “Straw” worth watching, especially due to Henson’s exceptional performance.
“Straw” has been well-received, boasting a solid 77% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Viewers have called the film powerful and emotional, with many praising Henson's acting as “excellent.” With five out of eight critic reviews being positive, “Straw” is shaping up to be one of Tyler Perry’s most significant works to date.
You can stream “Straw” on Netflix now. However, if you’re looking for something different, check out what’s new on Netflix this week or explore our guide on the latest movies and shows added in June 2025.
