Big Apple Brilliance: Tyler Perry, Taraji P. Henson, Teyana Taylor, Sherri Shepherd & More Attend Special New York Screening Of ‘Straw’
The New York Citybr Big Apple Brilliance: A screening of *Straw* with star performancesNew York City is a city born from the intersection of art and experience, its streets lined with galleries, cafes, and historic museums that bring together artists, writers, and audiences alike. When it came time to honor this iconic city for its incredible talent in films, we turned our attention to the latest release on Netflix: *Straw* (2018). This film, produced by the renowned actors Tyler Perry (Big Apple Brilliance) and Taraji P. Henson (The Wire), starred Teyana Taylor (The West Wing) and Shari Shepherd (The Good Wife), brought a thrilling mix of comedy, drama, and action to the screen.
Setting the scene in New York City
The screening was set at 55th Street in Manhattan, where streets are named after famous artists—like the Empire State Building. It also featured visits to The Fifth Floor Museum (a place that often houses rare art and memorabilia), the Empire State Hall, and the 30th Avenue Mall, creating a vibrant, eclectic scene that reflects the city's cultural diversity.
The story of *Straw*
*Straw* follows a man who buys a TV set with his initials (T-Swift) on it. The film is about themes of identity, belonging, and the absurdity of success, all told through simple, relatable scenarios. Taraji P. Henson's portrayal of the protagonist as "Sherry" offers a sharp critique of societal expectations, making her an invaluable addition to the cast.
The stars behind *Straw*
Tyler Perry is an actor and producer, but he hasn't yet starred in any films since the release of *Straw*. Taraji P. Henson brings the boldness of the movie with her talent for comedic and emotional storytelling. Teyana Taylor and Shari Shepherd bring their own personal brands—Taylor as a fiery, energetic woman, and Shepherd as a sharp, confident personality who won an acting award in The West Wing.
The scenes
As the film opened at 55th Street, I couldn't help but be reminded of New York City's many neighborhoods. The streetlights twinkling like a city's own lit scene, the music echoing through the buildings, and the people clapping as the film opened. The lighting was perfect for the intense emotional moments, creating a sense of connection between the audience and the movie.
The story started with a simple question: "Who is S" (for S? Let’s call him 'S'). Taraji P. Henson's portrayal of Sherry as someone absurdly perfect was immediately relatable—it left viewers wanting more. The film then took us on a journey from her apartment in Manhattan to her new home in Brooklyn, with each scene evoking different memories that would linger long after the credits rolled.
The star power
Tyler Perry and Taraji P. Henson were both greeted with a mix of buzz and anticipation during the screening. He's been known for his role as "Big Apple Brilliance" (where he plays Dr. Danna Willard), but his acting career hasn't seen a big splash yet. Meanwhile, Sherry Shepherd was recognized for her performance in *The West Wing*, where she starred with Michael J. Fox and Amy Brenneman.
The winners
Both Taraji P. Henson and Tyler Perry were awarded Best Original Story, the category for this film. Taraji's performance shines through on a global scale, while Tyler’s efforts to bring his signature stage presence to *Straw* are commendable. His other projects have been anything but, with some exciting things happening elsewhere.
The crowd
The film was a hit—50 million tickets sold in its first week and over 25 million by the end of April. It also earned critical acclaim— Best Picture winner, Best Director, Best Original Story, and Best Supporting Actress—all while topping lists for both Best Picture and Best Director. This has given the film a place among the most memorable films of all time.
The takeaway
*Straw* is more than just a movie—it's a celebration of New York City’s talent in the film industry. It's a reminder that even our most unconventional neighborhoods are brimming with creativity, energy, and unforgettable performances. The screening was not just a movie; it was a way to honor this city that continues to grow each year as we explore its many aspects.
As the film ended, I couldn't help but think about how much more of New York City there is out there—its art galleries, public libraries, historic streets, and unexplored corners. It’s a city that keeps redefining itself every day, leaving us with moments like this to remember its beauty and energy.
So, whether you're a movie fan or just visiting New York for a stroll, *Straw* was a memorable experience. It gave us a taste of the city's vibrant tapestry and showed us all the magic that can happen when stories meet people. Thank you to Tyler Perry and Taraji P. Henson for their contributions—both in the film and beyond.
And here’s to more New York Brains!
[Trailer follows]
------
