Master of suspense M. Night Shyamalan returns with Trap, a psychological thriller blending his signature tension with a complex, twisting plot. The film follows Cooper Adams (Josh Hartnett), a seemingly ordinary father, who takes his teenage daughter, Riley (Ariel Donoghue), to a pop concert as a reward for her academic achievements.
What begins as a fun and innocent night out quickly descends into chaos when Cooper’s dark secret is exposed— he’s actually the infamous serial killer known as “the Butcher.” This revelation sets the stage for a nerve-wracking game of cat and mouse that unfolds in the most extraordinary ways.
Shyamalan expertly crafts a claustrophobic atmosphere that mirrors Cooper’s psychological unravelling. Cooper must navigate a sea of FBI agents, led by the determined Dr. Josephine Grant (Hollywood legend Hayley Mills), and unsuspecting concertgoers, all while maintaining his façade as a loving, caring father.
While laden with clichés and contrived elements, Trap boasts a compelling central premise that drives an engaging plot. Unfortunately, much of the film is however squandered on lengthy concert footage that often felt a little superfluous. However, when it focuses on the core suspenseful narrative, Trap delivers the goods with gusto and plenty of tongue in cheek bonhomie.
The performances are exceptional. Josh Hartnett delivers a haunting portrayal of Cooper, a man whose carefully constructed front is crumbling. His nuanced depiction of a character torn between paternal love and dark impulses is both terrifying and tragic. Donoghue as Riley, evolves from an innocent bystander to a strong, complex character. Her performance adds depth to the narrative, making her journey as compelling as her father’s descent into paranoia and despair.
As expected from Shyamalan, Trap delivers a signature twist that radically reinterprets the narrative. This shocking revelation undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression. Rather than a mere gimmick, it’s a meticulously crafted plot point that compels viewers to reassess their own prejudices.
Visually, Trap is a masterclass in suspense. Shyamalan uses tight spaces and the crowded concert to create tension and fear. The cinematography is excellent, pulling viewers into the story and making them feel the character’s panic.
This is a thrilling, if a little contrived, cinematic experience that showcases M. Night Shyamalan’s mastery of suspense and storytelling. With complex characters, unpredictable plot twists, and skilful execution, the film lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
