Tyler Perry’s latest thriller, “Straw,” has captivated audiences with its intense storyline and compelling performances. The film, which premiered on Netflix on June 6, stars the talented Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah Wiltkinson, a single mother pushed to the brink in a series of events that lead her to hold a bank hostage. As viewers are drawn into the gripping drama, many have wondered about the real-life locations where the movie was filmed, particularly those that may be familiar to Atlanta locals.
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The filming of “Straw” took place in Atlanta, with lead actress Taraji P. Henson completing her scenes in just four days. Despite the tight schedule, Henson managed to bring depth and emotion to her character, capturing the essence of Janiyah’s turbulent journey. In an interview with PEOPLE, Henson shared insights into her experience working on “Straw” while also juggling her commitments to the Peacock limited series, Fight Night. Both projects being filmed in Atlanta facilitated a seamless transition for the actress between sets.
The narrative of “Straw” unfolds across various locations in Atlanta, each playing a significant role in shaping Janiyah’s story. The film begins at Janiyah’s apartment in the Old Fourth Ward neighbourhood, where she faces eviction and job loss, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow. This location, known for its mix of trendy developments and historical sites like the childhood home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., serves as a backdrop to Janiyah’s struggles.
Woodrow Wilson Elementary School, portrayed in the film as Aria’s school, is actually the KIPP Vision Primary School in Atlanta. This educational institution, founded in 2013, offers a range of activities for its students and is located in close proximity to the Tyler Perry Studios, where “Straw” was also filmed. The seamless integration of these real-world locations adds authenticity to the storytelling, enhancing the audience’s immersion in Janiyah’s world.
One of the key locations in the film is the Benevolent Bank and Trust, where Janiyah’s desperate actions unfold. The exterior scenes were shot in the Lakewood Heights neighbourhood, while the interior scenes were filmed at the Tyler Perry Studios. The sprawling studio complex, situated on a 330-acre lot with 12 sound stages and extensive green space, provided the perfect setting for the intense hostage situation depicted in the film.
Another notable location featured in “Straw” is the grocery store where Janiyah works, a crucial setting where pivotal events transpire. The White’s Super Saver Foods in Campbellton Plaza served as the backdrop for these scenes, adding a sense of realism to Janiyah’s tumultuous day. The juxtaposition of everyday locations with high-stakes drama reinforces the theme of desperation and survival that runs through the film.
As viewers delve into the world of “Straw,” they witness Janiyah’s struggles and the extreme circumstances that compel her to take drastic action. Tyler Perry’s storytelling resonates with audiences as he explores themes of resilience, motherhood, and desperation. Through compelling performances and authentic locations, the film invites viewers to reflect on the challenges faced by its characters and the choices they make in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the filming of “Straw” in Atlanta not only provides a visually stunning backdrop for the narrative but also connects the story to real-world locations familiar to locals. As audiences follow Janiyah’s harrowing journey, they are drawn into a world where desperation and survival intersect, resonating with universal themes of struggle and resilience. Tyler Perry’s latest thriller continues to spark discussions and captivate viewers with its impactful storytelling and powerful performances.