In an era where movie trailers are notoriously vague, revealing too much about a film’s plot is a rare and risky move. Yet, “Trap,” the latest offering from M. Night Shyamalan, dares to unveil its central twist right from the start: Josh Hartnett’s seemingly affable dad is, in fact, a ruthless serial killer. Not only is he the notorious “Butcher,” but the entire arena concert where he’s taking his daughter is part of an elaborate trap designed to catch him.
This upfront revelation is a departure from Shyamalan’s typical style, known for its surprising twists. But perhaps the film’s intent is to embrace a less serious tone. “Trap” emerges as a blend of entertainment that’s both absurdly fun and occasionally unsettling. Hartnett’s portrayal of Cooper, a man who outwardly appears as the ideal suburban father, is anything but ordinary. His performance is deliberately intense and somewhat disconcerting, adding to the film’s bizarre charm. As he attempts to mask his dark side, his forced smiles and overly enthusiastic demeanor create a sense of discomfort. If Hartnett had been around during the original “Twin Peaks” era, his role would fit right in, his very name seeming to echo that iconic show.
Cooper’s façade of normalcy crumbles when he learns from a seemingly helpful arena employee that the concert, featuring a pop star named Lady Raven (played by Shyamalan’s daughter, Saleka Shyamalan), is a trap set specifically for him. The concert, designed to be a thrilling experience for teenage fans, is cleverly used as a backdrop for the film’s unfolding drama. Saleka Shyamalan’s debut as a performer is bold and promising, with 14 original songs adding to the film’s immersive experience. As she tells the audience, “Everyone needs a break when they’re starting out,” it reflects the film’s commitment to creating a convincing concert atmosphere.
Despite its entertaining moments and Saleka’s unexpected performance, “Trap” ultimately feels a bit underdeveloped. It’s a wild ride that doesn’t quite leave a lasting impact or provide much to ponder after the credits roll. The film also features Hayley Mills, who, while regal as ever as the mastermind behind the police operation, has limited screen time beyond her narration.
“Trap” does not aim to replicate the magic of Shyamalan’s earlier works like “The Sixth Sense” or “Signs.” Instead, it offers a popcorn-worthy experience with a standout performance from Hartnett. Now showing in theaters, “Trap” is rated PG-13 for “brief strong language, some violent content” and runs for 105 minutes. The film earns two and a half stars out of four, promising a fun time at the movies with a few twists along the way.
