Here’s a refined 300‑word piece on Straw’s historic streaming success:
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Tyler Perry’s Straw has made waves, becoming Netflix’s first No. 1 movie since February—marking a triumphant return to the top of the Streaming Top 10 chart . Released June 6, the film has already amassed over 25 million views and more than 45 million hours streamed during its debut week of June 2–8 , outpacing the next contender by a fivefold margin.
Starring Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah, a single mother grappling with financial strain and personal tragedy, Straw unfolds over one harrowing day. After she’s fired, evicted, and denied a paycheck needed for her ailing daughter, Janiyah sets off a dramatic bank hostage situation that serves as a seismic cry against societal neglect . The film mixes tense psychological drama with poignant social critique, inviting viewers on an emotional journey through the systemic failures that push someone to her breaking point.
Critics have praised Henson’s performance and the story’s thematic gravitas, although some have noted its occasional melodramatic tone and bustling plot twists . Washington Post’s Ty Burr highlighted the film’s empathy for working‑class single mothers and its evocation of solidarity among Black women caught in crisis . Meanwhile, Entertainment Weekly compared its structure to Dog Day Afternoon—thrilling yet emotionally raw .
Beyond critical acclaim, audience reaction has been immediate and fierce. Viewers on social media hailed the film as a powerful experience, with many calling for Oscar recognition for both Perry and Henson . Box office-style streaming records like this are exactly why Perry took to Instagram to thank fans in a heartfelt message acknowledging their role in lifting Straw to number one .
In all, Straw not only broke Netflix’s No. 1 barrier for the first time in months but also reignited Tyler Perry’s reputation for storytelling that resonates—both emotionally and culturally.
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