Netflix’s Top Movie: Tyler Perry’s “Straw”

At the moment, Netflix’s most popular film is Tyler Perry’s latest release, “Straw,” which follows a single mother navigating a series of tough challenges.

Blazetv Host Jason Whitlock and contributor Shemeka Michelle expressed their dissatisfaction with the film, but their discussion brought up interesting points about Perry’s audience.

Michelle admitted her initial frustration with Perry, primarily because his main fan base—African American women—seemed to overlook certain themes in his work. “I really felt he missed the mark,” she shared with Whitlock.

She provided a “spoiler alert” for viewers who haven’t seen it, pointing out that the film subtly depicted the protagonist’s struggle with mental health until the very end.

Once online, her irritation grew as she noticed many audiences were, perhaps, unable to connect with the deeper issues presented, leading to comments like, “I’m Jania.”

However, Michelle was quick to emphasize that not every single Black woman is grappling with mental illness. “This isn’t something all single mothers face daily,” she clarified. “It’s not Perry’s fault if some of his viewers miss the nuances,” she added thoughtfully.

Whitlock echoed similar sentiments after viewing the film. He argued, “The media and movies like these are just perpetuating harmful narratives. Regardless of your actions—be it odd behavior or violence—it’s presented that it’s all a product of a racist system.” He also expressed concern that Perry’s work might contribute to misconceptions among Black women, suggesting his films create illusions rather than addressing reality.

Whitlock further remarked that Perry’s movies could mislead audiences to see themselves solely as victims, which he found troubling.