M. Night Shyamalan has long been known for his signature twist endings in supernatural horror and psychological thriller films, but his latest release, Trap, takes a departure from this formula. While this change may have been intended to bring something new to the table, it ultimately falls short, leaving audiences feeling underwhelmed and unimpressed.
The Plot Unraveled
Set at a sold-out stadium concert for pop sensation Lady Raven, Trap follows an extensive team of SWAT and FBI agents as they surround the building in anticipation of capturing a wanted serial killer. The head of the operation, Dr. Josephine Grant, played by Hayley Mills, reveals that the killer will be attending the show, setting the stage for a suspenseful cat-and-mouse game.
Meanwhile, suburban dad Cooper, portrayed by Josh Hartnett, and his teenage daughter Riley, played by Ariel Donoghue, are enjoying the concert together, unaware of the danger lurking nearby. As the plot unfolds, Cooper is revealed to be the killer, leading to a series of twists and turns that keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
The Cast and Their Performances
The cast of Trap features a mix of seasoned actors and newcomers, with Alison Pill playing Cooper’s wife and Riley’s mom, Jonathan Langdon as a merchandise vendor, and Marnie McPhail as the mom of one of Riley’s classmates. While the ensemble cast delivers solid performances, it is clear that some actors are underutilized in their roles, leaving much to be desired in terms of character development.
One standout performance in Trap comes from Saleka, Shyamalan’s real-life daughter, who provides the film’s full soundtrack with her music. However, her acting leaves something to be desired once she becomes more involved in the plot, underscoring the importance of honing one’s craft in both music and acting.
A Tone of Inconsistency
One of the major criticisms of Trap is its inconsistent tone, with some viewers interpreting the film as more of a comedy due to the stilted dialogue and Hartnett’s performance. While Hartnett’s portrayal of Cooper may come across as intentionally humorous, the rest of the cast plays their parts straight, creating a jarring juxtaposition that detracts from the overall viewing experience.
Despite its shortcomings, Trap does have its moments of levity, including a memorable cameo by rapper Kid Cudi. These comedic interjections provide a brief respite from the film’s more serious moments, offering viewers a chance to catch their breath and reflect on the absurdity of the plot unfolding before them.
In conclusion, Trap may not be M. Night Shyamalan’s strongest work, but it does showcase a departure from his usual formula of twist endings and supernatural elements. While the film falls short in some areas, it still manages to entertain audiences with its unique premise and talented cast. Whether you’re a fan of Shyamalan’s previous work or simply looking for a thrilling movie-going experience, Trap is worth a watch for its humorous twists and turns.