‘Trap’ Movie Review: Josh Hartnett Shines as a Serial Killer in M. Night Shyamalan’s Latest Thriller

“Trap,” directed by M. Night Shyamalan, stars Josh Hartnett as a serial killer in a thriller filled with twists that often feel contrived. The film attempts to deliver a high-stakes narrative but falls into Shyamalan’s trademark pattern of over-the-top plot twists.

The Evolution of Shyamalan’s Career

Shyamalan’s career can be divided into four distinct periods. He first gained fame with “The Sixth Sense” in 1999 and was compared to Spielberg for his visionary storytelling. This era includes hits like “Unbreakable,” “Signs,” and “The Village.” However, his subsequent films like “Lady in the Water” and “The Happening” marked a decline, with his twist endings becoming predictable. Shyamalan then shifted to sci-fi with movies like “The Last Airbender” and “After Earth.” His resurgence began with “Split” in 2016, leading to a mix of hits and misses in recent years.

Plot Summary

“Trap” takes place in Tanaka Arena during a concert by pop superstar Lady Raven (Saleka Shyamalan, Shyamalan’s daughter). Josh Hartnett plays Cooper, a seemingly average dad trying to bond with his daughter, Riley (Alison Donoughue), at the concert. However, it is soon revealed that Cooper is the Butcher, a notorious serial killer who has eluded capture for years.

The authorities, led by a veteran FBI profiler (played by Hayley Mills), have set a trap to capture the Butcher at the concert. The arena is surrounded by S.W.A.T. teams, and the challenge is to identify and apprehend Cooper among the 3,000 adult males in the audience. The authorities have limited clues, including surveillance footage and a possible animal tattoo.

Twists and Turns

As the plot unfolds, Cooper attempts to escape the arena by infiltrating various areas, including backstage. The narrative takes several convoluted turns, including a cameo by Shyamalan himself as Lady Raven’s uncle, which facilitates Cooper’s access to restricted areas. These twists strain credibility and detract from the film’s tension.

Character Analysis

Josh Hartnett delivers a compelling performance, portraying Cooper as a complex character torn between his murderous tendencies and his love for his daughter. The film explores his dual nature but does so in a manner that feels forced and lacks depth. The supporting cast, including Saleka Shyamalan and Hayley Mills, deliver solid performances but are overshadowed by the implausible plot.

Music and Atmosphere

The film’s music, composed by the band Steam Powered Giraffe, stands out with catchy original songs that enhance the atmosphere during concert scenes. The music provides a refreshing break from the film’s heavy-handed plot twists.

Final Thoughts

“Trap” is a mixed bag. While it features strong performances and an engaging musical score, its convoluted plot twists and lack of plausibility undermine the overall experience. Fans of Shyamalan’s earlier work may find elements to enjoy, but the film ultimately falls short of recapturing the magic of his best efforts.