Trap, M. Night Shyamalan’s latest thriller, combines elements of classic Hitchcock with Shyamalan’s signature twists. The film follows a father-daughter duo at a pop concert that turns into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
Trap focuses on Cooper (Josh Hartnett) and his daughter Riley (Ariel Donoghue) attending a pop concert by Lady Raven (Saleka Shyamalan). Unbeknownst to them, the FBI has set up the concert to catch an infamous serial killer known as The Butcher. The unexpected twist is that Cooper turns out to be The Butcher.
Rating: 2.5 Stars
Language: English
Genre: Crime, Thriller
Starring: Josh Hartnett, Hayley Mills, Ariel Donoghue
Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Runtime: 105 minutes
Availability: Cinemas
Movie Highlights:
Josh Hartnett’s Stellar Performance:
Josh Hartnett delivers a standout performance as Cooper. He brilliantly balances his character’s duality—a doting father with a dark, murderous secret. His transition from a charming dad to a menacing serial killer is both convincing and chilling.
Engaging First Act:
The film’s first act grips you with its energy and suspense. The initial setup, where Cooper appears as a loving father, fools the audience and builds a strong foundation for the story. Hartnett’s performance during this part is awe-inspiring.
Electrifying Atmosphere:
The movie is set against the backdrop of a pop concert, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The high-stakes game of cat and mouse keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The tension is palpable as Cooper tries to evade capture while maintaining his facade.
What’s Not Working?
Contrived Plot Developments:
As the movie progresses, the plot becomes increasingly implausible. Some developments feel forced and undermine the initial tension built in the first act, detracting from the overall experience.
Inconsistent Thrill:
While the first act is gripping, the second and third acts struggle to maintain the same level of suspense. The movie loses momentum, and predictable and repetitive plot points undermine some of the thrills.
Supporting Cast:
Although Hartnett shines, some of the supporting cast performances fall short. The characters around Cooper don’t always match the intensity of his performance, which creates a disconnect in the narrative.
Final Verdict:
Trap is an entertaining thriller that highlights Josh Hartnett’s talent. While the movie does have its flaws, especially in the latter half, it is still an engaging watch. Shyamalan’s direction and Hartnett’s performance make it worth your time.
Have you watched Trap? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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