Rating: ★★★½☆ (3.5/5 Stars)
Released 08-02-2024
Watched 08-04-2024
Reviewed 08-06-2024
Watched in the theater Using Cinemark Movie Club
"You know the Butcher? That freakin' nutjob that goes around just chopping people up? Well, the feds or whatever heard that he's gonna be here today, so they set up a trap for him. This whole concert? It's a trap."
M. Night Shyamalan’s Trap (2024) is a psychological thriller that intricately weaves suspense with a unique concert setting, featuring a noteworthy performance by his daughter, Saleka Shyamalan, as Lady Raven. The film stars Josh Hartnett as Cooper, a serial killer known as “the Butcher,” who attends Lady Raven’s concert with his daughter Riley, portrayed by Ariel Donoghue. As Cooper navigates the high-security concert venue, he tries to evade an FBI operation led by Dr. Josephine Grant (Hayley Mills).
The film’s plot unfolds with Cooper discovering the FBI’s presence at the concert, which is part of an elaborate sting operation. In an attempt to escape, Cooper leverages his daughter’s participation in the concert’s special “Dreamer Girl” segment to find an unguarded exit. The tension heightens as Lady Raven, coerced by Cooper, uses her influence to aid their escape, culminating in a series of gripping confrontations and twists.
Trap had a solid opening at the box office, grossing $20.1 million worldwide in its first weekend. Despite mixed reviews, it has been praised for its dark humor, tense atmosphere, and Hartnett’s compelling portrayal of Cooper. While the film’s twists may feel predictable to some, its execution and the integration of Saleka’s musical performances provide a refreshing take on the thriller genre.
Saleka’s involvement in the film is significant, as she acts and contributes 14 original songs that align with the film’s narrative. This fusion of concert and thriller elements creates a unique viewing experience, even if it sometimes feels like a platform for showcasing her talent. Nonetheless, her performance is so well-integrated that it stands on its own merit.
In conclusion, Trap is a solid addition to Shyamalan’s filmography, offering a unique blend of psychological thrills and musical interludes. It’s a film that is worth watching in theaters for its atmospheric intensity or later on streaming for those who prefer a more casual viewing experience. Trap is a must-watch for fans of Shyamalan and those intrigued by a thriller set against the backdrop of a high-stakes concert.
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