Film Review: Trap (2024) – A Mixed Bag from M. Night Shyamalan
Trap, M. Night Shyamalan’s latest film, is a rollercoaster of twists and turns, albeit with some hiccups along the way. Though it may not be Shyamalan’s most memorable work, it provides a suspenseful and somewhat enjoyable experience for those willing to embrace its quirks.
Plot Overview
In Trap, Josh Hartnett stars as Cooper, a seemingly ordinary father taking his teenage daughter, Riley (Ariel Donoghue), to a concert by the pop sensation Lady Raven (Saleka Shyamalan). However, the night takes a dark turn when it’s revealed that Cooper is not just a loving dad but also the notorious serial killer known as “The Butcher.” The FBI, aware of his attendance at the concert, has set a trap to capture him. What follows is a tense and often convoluted cat-and-mouse game within the confines of a concert arena.
Performance and Direction
Hartnett delivers a performance that swings between intense and overly theatrical. His portrayal of Cooper is meant to be unsettling, but at times, it feels exaggerated to the point of being distracting. Ariel Donoghue brings a genuine earnestness to her role as Riley, adding emotional weight to the narrative.
Shyamalan’s direction is marked by his signature style—an emphasis on suspense and psychological tension. However, the execution falls short due to some implausible plot points and underwhelming twists. The film’s pacing also suffers, with a significant portion of its runtime dedicated to Cooper’s clumsy attempts to evade capture, which becomes repetitive.
Plot Mechanics and Twists
The central conceit of Trap—a serial killer trapped at a concert with an FBI operation in place—sounds intriguing but falters due to its execution. The film’s plot is riddled with conveniences, such as the FBI’s reliance on an outdated ticket receipt and Cooper’s easily avoidable blunders. The supposed genius of British profiler Dr. Grant (played by Hayley Mills) feels underwhelming and overly simplistic.
Shyamalan’s attempt at cerebral storytelling, with themes of inner demons and visions, adds another layer of complexity but often feels forced. The film’s attempts to explore the nature of evil and its impact on the protagonist are overshadowed by its more glaring flaws.
Cinematography and Production Values
Despite its narrative shortcomings, Trap is visually engaging. Shyamalan’s use of wide angles and cropped frames creates a sense of claustrophobia that enhances the tension within the concert venue. The cinematography effectively builds suspense, and the production design captures the essence of a high-stakes thriller.
Final Thoughts
Trap is a film that will appeal to Shyamalan fans who appreciate his distinctive style of storytelling, complete with unexpected twists and psychological drama. However, it may not resonate as strongly with viewers looking for a tightly-woven narrative or groundbreaking suspense. The film’s mix of suspense, over-the-top performances, and Shyamalan’s trademark twists make it a curious watch, but it ultimately falls short of greatness.
Grade: B+
For those interested in a suspenseful, albeit flawed, thriller with a unique premise, Trap offers a captivating if uneven experience. The film’s mix of thrills and thematic explorations ensures it will spark discussions among fans and critics alike.
