Trap, the 2024 psychological thriller directed by M. Night Shyamalan, is a film that promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Known for his signature twists and suspenseful storytelling, Shyamalan delivers a movie that is both intriguing and frustrating in equal measure.
With a star-studded cast led by Josh Hartnett and Salma Hayek, Trap explores themes of paranoia, manipulation, and the fragility of the human mind. While the film has moments of brilliance, it ultimately struggles to fully deliver on its ambitious premise.
A High-Concept Premise
The story of Trap centers on a father, Cooper (Josh Hartnett), who takes his teenage daughter, Riley (Ariel Donoghue), to a highly anticipated pop concert. However, the event takes a sinister turn when it is revealed that the concert is a carefully orchestrated “trap” designed to capture a notorious serial killer who is believed to be in attendance. As the authorities close in, Cooper must navigate a web of lies, deception, and mounting tension to protect his daughter and uncover the truth.
The premise is undeniably gripping, and Shyamalan wastes no time plunging the audience into the heart of the action. The concert setting, with its pulsating energy and massive crowd, serves as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding chaos. The film’s early scenes are masterfully crafted, with Shyamalan’s trademark tension-building techniques keeping viewers guessing at every turn.
Strong Performances
Josh Hartnett delivers a compelling performance as Cooper, capturing the character’s desperation and resourcefulness as he fights to keep his daughter safe. His portrayal of a man pushed to his limits is both nuanced and relatable, making it easy for the audience to root for him despite the moral ambiguities of his actions.
Salma Hayek, in a supporting role as the enigmatic concert organizer, brings a sense of gravitas to the film. Her character’s motivations are shrouded in mystery, and Hayek’s performance keeps viewers guessing until the very end. Ariel Donoghue, as Riley, also holds her own, portraying a teenager caught in a nightmare with a mix of vulnerability and resilience.
Shyamalan’s Signature Style
Shyamalan’s directorial style is on full display in Trap, with its meticulous framing, slow-building tension, and unexpected twists. The film’s use of sound design is particularly noteworthy, with the concert’s music and crowd noise creating a disorienting and immersive experience. The director’s ability to manipulate the audience’s emotions is evident, as he expertly balances moments of quiet introspection with heart-pounding suspense.
However, Shyamalan’s reliance on twists can also be a double-edged sword. While the film’s central revelation is genuinely shocking, it risks overshadowing the emotional core of the story. Some viewers may find the twist to be overly convoluted, detracting from the otherwise solid character development and thematic depth.
Themes of Trust and Deception
At its core, Trap is a film about trust—or the lack thereof. Cooper’s journey forces him to question everyone around him, including those he loves most. The film explores the idea that even the most seemingly ordinary people can harbor dark secrets, and that the line between hero and villain is often blurred.
This theme is further emphasized by the film’s exploration of media manipulation and public perception. The concert, with its massive audience and live broadcasts, serves as a microcosm of a society obsessed with spectacle and sensationalism. Shyamalan uses this setting to critique the way information is disseminated and consumed in the modern age, adding a layer of social commentary to the thriller.
Missed Opportunities and Pacing Issues
Despite its strengths, Trap is not without its flaws. The film’s pacing can feel uneven, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary while others feel rushed. The middle act, in particular, suffers from a lack of momentum, as the story struggles to maintain the tension established in the opening scenes.
Additionally, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, serving more as plot devices than fully realized individuals. This is especially true of the law enforcement officers tasked with capturing the killer, whose motivations and actions often feel contrived to serve the plot.
Conclusion: A Mixed Bag with Moments of Brilliance
Trap is a film that will likely divide audiences. For fans of Shyamalan’s work, it offers plenty of the director’s signature style, with its suspenseful storytelling, unexpected twists, and thought-provoking themes. However, the film’s uneven pacing and reliance on convoluted plot mechanics may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied.
That said, Trap is worth watching for its strong performances, particularly from Josh Hartnett, and its innovative use of setting and sound design. While it may not rank among Shyamalan’s best works, it is a bold and ambitious film that showcases his continued willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of the thriller genre.
In the end, Trap is a gripping, if flawed, psychological thriller that will keep you guessing—even if it doesn’t quite stick the landing.