'Trap' might have missed M. Night Shyamalan's signature thriller flavour

M. Night Shyamalan is known for suspense, psychological thrills, and unexpected twists in his directed films. Films like The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable, and Split are iconic for their mind-bending conclusions. Recently, Shyamalan has taken a more restrained approach with his twisting narratives, as seen in the horror film The Watcher. His latest film, Trap, seems to have missed the thriller flavour, delivering a predictable and less impactful thriller.

The film introduces us to Cooper, played by Josh Hartnett, an apparently regular suburban father who turns out to be the infamous serial killer known as 'The Butcher'.

This revelation, which comes early in the film, strips away any suspense that might have been built around his true identity. The film follows Cooper as he takes his daughter, Riley (Ariel Donoghue), to a concert by pop star Lady Raven, portrayed by Shyamalan's real-life daughter, Saleka. The concert, however, is a covert sting operation set up by the FBI to capture The Butcher.

Hartnett skillfully balances Cooper's compassion and cold-bloodedness, highlighting the film's key moments. However, the early exposure of his identity as 'The Butcher' spoils the suspense, reducing the film's potential to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The film is set at a concert full of loud teenagers, neon lights, and dance routines, which is very different from the grim search for a serial killer. This juxtaposition could have made the film exciting. But instead, it feels fake and unbelievable. The idea that the FBI would plan such a complicated operation in a busy concert based on just one ticket seems hard to believe.

Saleka Shyamalan's portrayal of Lady Raven in the film could be better due to her lack of depth and charisma, making her character unremarkable. Her involvement seems more like nepotism than a suitable casting choice, weakening the overall narrative.

Shyamalan's typically fresh and precise direction appears scattered in Trap. The film begins strong, with moments of humour and tension, but unrealistic plot aspects weaken these.

The inclusion of quirky characters feels like forced comedy relief rather than significant plot contributions. Pop singers Kid Cudi and Russ make cameo appearances, but they serve as distractions rather than story improvements.

Shyamalan's recent films have shifted towards character-driven stories, like Knock the Cabin. Trap tries to follow this path, but feels like a missed opportunity rather than a masterful comeback.

[email protected]