Trap

M. Night Shyamalan's 'Trap': A Father and a Killer, But Where's the Thrill?

Is M. Night Shyamalan's latest film 'Trap' a miss or just a hit with dad jokes? Dive into the concert chaos as we unravel the plot twists!

M. Night Shyamalan has accomplished a feat that few directors can claim – he consistently stirs intrigue and suspense in his films, but his latest venture, the movie 'Trap,' seems to lack that signature punch he’s famous for. Starring Josh Hartnett alongside his own daughter Saleka, the film tells the story of Cooper, a father attending a pop concert with his teenage daughter, who also harbors a not-so-innocent secret: he’s a serial killer. Unlike Shyamalan's previous works, 'Trap' throws out the traditional plot twists and opts for a straightforward reveal of the killer early on, leaving audience members sometimes wondering where the suspense got lost in the shuffle under the concert lights.

Critics rave and rant about the film. While some praise Hartnett’s earnest performance as a loving father, others feel the lackluster plot leads the film to dip into disappointing territory. Despite the concept being ripe for tension given the singer’s performances, reviewers failed to see any genuine suspense or thrill throughout. Film critic Peter Travers aptly stated that it felt less like a gripping thriller and more like a confusing promotional deal for Shyamalan's daughter, who plays a prominent role amidst the melodrama.

The chaos doesn’t stop with the storyline; 'Trap' made a modest $2.2 million during its opening Thursday previews, which begs the question: is the slow box office burn indicative of a lost fanbase or merely a sign of the times? It stands in stark contrast to its peers like 'Deadpool & Wolverine,' which is raking in massive numbers at the box office and proving that sometimes, audiences crave more action than emotional father-daughter bonding. Despite critics digging into the movie’s flaws, the performances do have their moments of charm, instilling a combination of cringe and warmth.

As the concert continues and the story unfolds, 'Trap' positions itself as an interesting commentary on familial love, addiction to fame, and the monsters we hide behind closed doors. Now, aside from the film's brave yet shaky plot, did you know that M. Night Shyamalan is also a strong advocate for the importance of writing in movies? He emphasizes that characters should be relatable, even if they're leading a double life! Moreover, Hartnett's engaging portrayal has already sparked chatter about resurgence in his career – his return coinciding with the filmmaker's ongoing quest for emotional depth in thriller genres. In the end, even if 'Trap' is tripping over its own shoelaces, it hasn’t wiped out every ounce of charm.