Review by Jon Donnis
Trap is the latest psychological thriller to come from the mind of M. Night Shyamalan, an intriguing yet uneven addition to his filmography. Shyamalan, known for his penchant for plot twists, takes a different approach this time, crafting a cat-and-mouse game between a serial killer and the authorities, set against the unlikely backdrop of a pop concert. While the film has its moments of tension and solid performances, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity, marred by predictability and an overemphasis on showcasing the director's daughter, Saleka Night Shyamalan.
The plot centres on Cooper Abbott, a seemingly ordinary Philadelphia firefighter who is, in fact, a notorious serial killer known as "The Butcher." Played by Josh Hartnett, Cooper's dual life is explored in a compelling, if not entirely surprising, narrative. Hartnett's performance is one of the film's strongest aspects, bringing a believable and nuanced portrayal of a man teetering on the edge of sanity. His ability to convey a chilling calmness, even as his world unravels, keeps the viewer engaged, despite the story's occasional lapses in logic.
The film's setting, a concert by pop star Lady Raven, played by Saleka Night Shyamalan, a visually dynamic backdrop, though it often feels more like a vehicle for Saleka's singing than a genuine psychological thriller. Saleka's performance as Lady Raven is competent, and her character's fearless confrontation with Cooper adds an interesting layer to the plot. However, it is difficult to shake the sense that her role, and indeed the entire concert setting, was crafted more to showcase her musical talents than to serve the narrative. This detracts from the film's psychological depth, making certain sequences feel more like a music video than a tense thriller.
The film's major flaw lies in its lack of a traditional Shyamalan twist. Fans of the director might feel let down by the fact that the film's central reveal, that Cooper is the Butcher, is given away in the trailer and is evident early in the film. This transparency robs the story of the suspense and surprise that Shyamalan's films are typically known for, leaving the narrative somewhat flat. Moreover, the screenplay occasionally veers into the implausible, particularly in the scenes where Lady Raven confronts Cooper. The idea that a petite pop star would fearlessly face down a serial killer stretches credulity, making these moments less convincing.
Jonathan Langdon, as Jamie the vendor, provides much-needed comic relief and delivers one of the film's standout scenes in the mid-credits sequence. His character, while minor, adds a refreshing layer of humour and humanity to the story. It's a pity he wasn't given more screen time, as his presence helps to balance the darker themes of the film.
"Trap" attempts to blend a psychological thriller with the glamour of a pop concert, but the execution is uneven. While the film has its strengths, particularly in Hartnett's performance and the general concept, it is let down by a predictable plot and the sense that it is, at times, more of a showcase for Saleka Night Shyamalan than a fully realised thriller. The lack of a true twist, along with some implausible plot elements, leaves the viewer wanting more in terms of both depth and suspense.
In the end, Trap is a decent thriller that entertains but doesn't quite hit the mark. It's a safe, if unremarkable, addition to Shyamalan's body of work, scoring a respectable 6.5 out of 10. For those who enjoy a straightforward thriller with a few moments of tension, it may suffice, but those looking for the signature Shyamalan twist and a more tightly woven narrative might come away disappointed.
