M. Night Shyamalan's latest film, 'Trap', stars Josh Hartnett as Cooper, a father who is revealed to be a serial killer known as 'The Butcher' during a concert trap set to capture him. The film, which also features performances by Shyamalan's daughter Saleka as pop star Lady Raven, has been described as one of Shyamalan's most entertaining works, blending suspense with a unique concert setting. Despite mixed reviews, the film's innovative premise and Hartnett's performance have been highlighted as key strengths.
M. Night Shyamalan returns with 'Trap', a film that intertwines suspense and pop culture in a concert setting, where Josh Hartnett plays Cooper, a seemingly normal dad turned serial killer. The movie unfolds as Cooper and his daughter attend a concert, only to discover it's a setup to capture him. With a mix of critical opinions, 'Trap' stands out for its unique premise and engaging performances, particularly from Hartnett and Saleka Shyamalan, who plays the pop star Lady Raven.
In 'Trap', the tension escalates when Cooper, played by Josh Hartnett, discovers that the concert he is attending with his daughter is actually a sophisticated trap set by law enforcement to capture him, known as 'The Butcher'. The film explores themes of identity and deception, as Cooper navigates the crowded arena, trying to avoid capture while maintaining his facade. Critics have praised Hartnett's portrayal of Cooper, noting his ability to blend into the crowd while exuding a sinister undercurrent. The setting of a live concert adds a layer of real-time suspense, making 'Trap' a gripping watch.
Director M. Night Shyamalan utilizes his signature style, blending thriller elements with psychological depth, which in 'Trap' is enhanced by the concert setting and live performance elements. The film's cinematography and sound design play crucial roles in amplifying the suspense, with critics noting the effective use of close-ups and ambient sounds. Despite some criticisms of its plausibility, 'Trap' has been generally well-received for its entertainment value and originality, particularly in how it subverts typical thriller tropes within the confinement of a pop concert.
'Trap' marks another distinctive entry in M. Night Shyamalan's filmography, showcasing his ability to craft original narratives with compelling twists. This film, coming after successes like 'Split' and 'The Visit', might represent a new phase in his career, focusing on character-driven stories set in high-concept scenarios. Critics and audiences have noted 'Trap' as a testament to Shyamalan's enduring appeal and his knack for reinventing his storytelling approach, potentially paving the way for future projects that similarly blend genre conventions with innovative settings.
M. Night Shyamalan's 'Trap' cleverly combines the elements of a psychological thriller with a unique concert setting, offering audiences a fresh cinematic experience. While the film has its critics, particularly regarding some of its more implausible elements, the performances, especially by Josh Hartnett and Saleka Shyamalan, and the distinctive premise make it a noteworthy addition to Shyamalan's body of work. As Shyamalan continues to explore new narrative territories, 'Trap' stands as a compelling example of his cinematic evolution.
"Josh Hartnett's portrayal of Cooper, blending into the crowd while exuding a sinister undercurrent, is a highlight of 'Trap'." - Film Critic