In today’s spoiler-sensitive culture, movie trailers often reveal very little information. Critics even tread carefully when discussing specifics, sometimes years after a film or television show has been released.
So it was notably bold and somewhat confusing for “Trap,” the latest film from M. Night Shyamalan, to disclose so much upfront. Specifically, it reveals that the seemingly kind father, played by Josh Hartnett, who takes his teenage daughter to a concert, is actually a brutal serial killer. Additionally, the entire event is orchestrated to trap him.
This approach seems unusual for a filmmaker known for his plot twists. It hints that there might be more to the story.
Perhaps “Trap” doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s an entertaining film that balances silliness with moments of tension. While Hartnett’s character, Cooper, is manically enthusiastic and unnervingly pleasant, viewers remain curious about his next move.
Josh Hartnett, fresh from his serious role in “Oppenheimer,” delivers a performance that’s far from naturalistic. He portrays a psychopath poorly masking his evil nature. His attempts at being pleasant are visibly painful, and his intense energy is slightly unsettling. If he had been born earlier, Hartnett could have fit seamlessly into the original “Twin Peaks” cast. Here, Cooper’s superpower is his ability to blend in as a normal suburban dad, merely trying to show his daughter, played by Ariel Donoghue, a good time. This facade crumbles when an arena employee clues him in on the plot to catch him, known as The Butcher. “Trap” effectively highlights how a character like Cooper can blend in due to his attractive, confident, and white appearance.
Much of the film unfolds at an arena concert filled with teen and tween girls obsessed with a pop star named Lady Raven, played by Shyamalan’s daughter, Saleka Shyamalan, who composed 14 songs for the film. This role marks a significant launch for an emerging artist, and it’s a bold move. “Everyone needs a break when they’re starting out,” she says to the crowd. “Trap” immerses viewers in the real-time concert experience. However, if you’re expecting “Die Hard” in an arena, prepare for a different experience.
“Trap” has a few surprises, including a strong and unexpected performance from Saleka Shyamalan. Nevertheless, it feels somewhat underdeveloped, offering a wild ride that might not provoke deep reflection or extended discussions.
While it’s delightful to see Hayley Mills, as the police operation’s mastermind, her role is mostly limited to narration. There might not be a profound message about parenthood, marriage, fame, or sociopathy. Audiences often want Shyamalan to recreate the magic of “The Sixth Sense” or “Signs.” “Trap” is neither, but it is a popcorn movie with a surprising performance from an underrated star, making for an enjoyable theater experience.
“Trap,” a Warner Bros. release now in theaters, is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association for “brief strong language, some violent content.” Running time: 105 minutes. Two and a half stars out of four.