"Trap" is the latest psychological thriller from M. Night Shyamalan, presenting an intriguing yet uneven entry in his filmography. Known for his signature plot twists, Shyamalan shifts gears in this film, crafting a cat-and-mouse narrative between a serial killer and law enforcement, set against the unlikely backdrop of a pop concert. Although there are moments of genuine tension and solid performances, the film ultimately feels like a missed opportunity, hindered by predictability and an overemphasis on showcasing the director’s daughter, Saleka Night Shyamalan.
The story revolves around Cooper Abbott, a seemingly average Philadelphia firefighter who doubles as the infamous serial killer known as "The Butcher." Played by Josh Hartnett, Cooper's dual life is explored with a compelling narrative, though it lacks genuine surprises. Hartnett delivers one of the film's strongest performances, convincingly portraying a man on the brink of madness. His ability to maintain a chilling calmness even as chaos ensues around him keeps the audience engaged, despite the narrative's occasional lapses in logic.
Set during a concert by pop star Lady Raven, also played by Saleka Night Shyamalan, the film’s visually dynamic backdrop sometimes feels more like a platform for her musical performance than a genuine psychological thriller. Saleka’s portrayal of Lady Raven is competent, and her fearless confrontation with Cooper adds an interesting dimension to the plot. However, it’s hard to shake the feeling that her character, and the concert setting as a whole, was designed primarily to showcase her musical talents rather than to enhance the story’s psychological depth. This choice detracts from the film’s tension, with certain scenes feeling more like a music video than a thrilling narrative.
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The film’s major shortcoming lies in the absence of a traditional Shyamalan twist. Fans may feel disappointed to discover that the film reveals Cooper's identity as the Butcher early on, a revelation given away in the trailer. This transparency diminishes the suspense and surprise typically associated with Shyamalan’s films, leaving the story feeling somewhat flat. Additionally, some scenes, particularly those featuring Lady Raven confronting Cooper, stretch plausibility; the notion of a petite pop star fearlessly confronting a serial killer is hard to accept, making these moments less convincing.
Jonathan Langdon, who plays Jamie the vendor, injects much-needed comic relief and delivers one of the film's standout moments in a mid-credits scene. Although his character is minor, he adds a refreshing layer of humor and humanity to the story. It’s unfortunate that he wasn’t given more screen time, as his presence helps balance the film’s darker themes.
"Trap" attempts to blend the elements of a psychological thriller with the spectacle of a pop concert, but the execution feels uneven. While the film has strengths, particularly Hartnett's performance and its overall concept, it is ultimately let down by a predictable plot and the impression that it occasionally serves more as a showcase for Saleka Night Shyamalan than a fully realized thriller. The lack of a significant twist and some implausible plot points leave viewers wanting more depth and suspense.
In conclusion, "Trap" is a decent thriller that entertains but doesn’t quite hit its potential. It stands as a safe, if unremarkable, addition to Shyamalan’s body of work, earning a respectable 6.5 out of 10. For those who appreciate straightforward thrillers with a few tense moments, it may suffice, but those seeking the signature Shyamalan twist and a more tightly woven narrative might find themselves disappointed.
