Trap Movie: A Middling Thriller with a Few Surprises

Josh Hartnett and Ariel Donoghue star in the latest Shyamalan film

Key Points:

• Plot Overview: Cooper (Josh Hartnett) takes his daughter Riley (Ariel Donoghue) to see her favorite pop star, Lady Raven, amidst a police operation to catch a serial killer known as The Butcher.
• Main Cast: Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Shyamalan, Jonathan Langdon, Hayley Mills.
• Director: M. Night Shyamalan.
• Genre: Thriller.

Detailed Analysis:

1. Plot Summary:

• Setup: Cooper, a devoted dad, takes Riley to a concert as a reward for her good grades.
• Conflict: The concert is a trap set by the police to catch a serial killer, The Butcher, who has a ticket for the event.
• Twist: Cooper himself is revealed to be The Butcher.

2. Characters:

• Cooper (Josh Hartnett): Balances being a doting father and a sinister killer. Hartnett's performance is a highlight, making his dual role believable.
• Riley (Ariel Donoghue): Cooper’s daughter, excited for the concert.
• Lady Raven (Saleka Shyamalan): The pop star performing at the concert, portrayed by the director’s daughter.
• Jamie (Jonathan Langdon): A friendly T-shirt seller who inadvertently becomes part of the plot.
• Criminal Profiler (Hayley Mills): Plays a police profiler, adding a nostalgic touch with her presence.

3. Direction and Style:

• Shyamalan’s Approach: Known for twists and suspense, Shyamalan delivers a workmanlike direction in "Trap". The film has moments of tension but falls into predictability.
• Tone: Combines suspense with moments of unintentional humor and implausibility.

4. Strengths:

• Performance: Josh Hartnett’s portrayal of Cooper is compelling, adding depth to the character.
• Cameos and Supporting Roles: Hayley Mills and Jonathan Langdon provide enjoyable performances.
• Music: Saleka Shyamalan’s performance as Lady Raven includes original songs, adding authenticity to the concert scenes.

5. Weaknesses:

• Predictability: The twist is revealed early, reducing the suspense.
• Implausible Plot Points: The story relies heavily on coincidences and luck, straining credibility.
• Direction: Shyamalan’s attempts at building tension often fall flat, resulting in a lackluster experience.

6. Critical Reception:

• Mixed Reviews: While some appreciate the performances, particularly Hartnett’s, others criticize the predictable plot and lack of genuine suspense.
• Peter Travers' Take: Describes the film as a disappointment, noting the predictable twist and implausible plot elements.

"Trap quickly dives off the cliff from disappointment to disaster." - Peter Travers

Summary :

"Trap" may not be Shyamalan's best work, but it offers a few moments of entertainment, primarily due to Josh Hartnett’s performance. Fans of the director might find some value in its predictable yet mildly engaging plot.