Review
M. Night Shyamalan returns to the big screen with Trap, a thriller that continues to showcase his signature style of suspense and plot twists. Released hot on the heels of his daughter Ishana Night Shyamalan’s directorial debut, The Watchers, Trap promises a gripping narrative featuring Josh Hartnett and Saleka Shyamalan. As expected from the master of suspense behind The Sixth Sense and Knock at the Cabin, Trap has proven to be divisive among critics, sparking a wide range of reactions.
Plot and Direction
Trap centers around a pop singer's concert used as bait to capture a serial killer, played by Josh Hartnett. The film explores the intricate dance between the killer's dual identities - a father and a murderer. Critics have praised the movie for its straightforward yet multifaceted plot. Rodrigo Perez from The Playlist describes the journey as "exhilaratingly multifaceted," highlighting Shyamalan's ability to blend a seemingly simple narrative with deeper, complex undertones. However, Jeremy Mathai of Slashfilm points out that while the film starts strong, it becomes less engaging towards the end, a sentiment echoed by several other reviewers.
Shyamalan's direction shines through his expert use of tension-building techniques. The first half of the movie, filled with fast tracking shots and extreme closeups, invokes a Hitchcockian level of suspense. Meagan Navarro of Bloody Disgusting notes that the film "shifts into a tauter, psychologically meaner affair," maintaining high drama and energy throughout
Performances
Josh Hartnett’s portrayal of the conflicted protagonist is one of the film’s highlights. Critics have lauded his performance, with Rodrigo Perez calling it "one of his best ever turns." Hartnett's ability to switch between a goofy, embarrassing father figure and a menacing serial killer adds a captivating layer to the film. Peter Gray from The AU Review finds his performance a "real treat," while Jeremy Mathai appreciates his "many, many sure-to-be polarizing acting choices."
Saleka Shyamalan, who not only acts but also provides the film’s soundtrack, has received mixed reviews. Her acting has been critiqued, but her musical contributions have been seen as a capable addition to the film’s atmosphere. Peter Gray acknowledges her efforts, but Carla Hay from Culture Mix remarks that her singing outshines her acting.
Script and Storytelling
The script of Trap has been both praised and criticized. The idea behind the movie is widely appreciated, but its execution leaves some critics wanting more. Edward Douglas of The Weekend Warrior praises Shyamalan's ability to create an enjoyable experience for a wide audience, despite the script's simplicity. In contrast, Graeme Tuckett from Stuff.co.nz criticizes the screenplay for taking "one idiotic turn after another," and finds the narrative to be filled with unintentional comedy.
Humor and Suspense
Shyamalan’s dark humor is a subtle yet significant part of Trap. Nick Newman from The Film Stage finds the film "unnervingly funny," and Jeremy Mathai notes that Shyamalan's "wry and deceptively self-aware sense of humor" is back on display. This humor, coupled with the film’s suspenseful elements, keeps the audience engaged, though some critics, like Carla Hay, feel that the humor often stems from the film's shortcomings rather than its intended comedic elements.
Twists and Surprises
True to Shyamalan’s style, Trap includes twists, though they are executed differently this time. Instead of saving the surprise for the very end, Shyamalan introduces a major twist earlier in the film, which reshapes the narrative and keeps the audience guessing. Rodrigo Perez appreciates this approach, describing the film as "a true-anxiety-riddled rollercoaster," while Peter Gray feels that it makes the story more straightforward compared to Shyamalan's other works.
Conclusion
Trap is a mixed bag that offers something for both Shyamalan fans and critics. While it may not reach the heights of The Sixth Sense or Signs, it delivers a suspenseful, engaging experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Josh Hartnett’s standout performance and Shyamalan’s unique direction make Trap a noteworthy addition to his filmography. As Germain Lussier from io9.com sums up, if you’re a fan of Shyamalan or intrigued by the premise, Trap is a film you’re likely to enjoy, despite its flaws.