'TRAP' Review - M. Night Puts us at Centre Stage of a Suspenseful Game of Cat & Mouse

M. Night Shyamalan is regarded as one of the most original, yet divisive filmmaker's working in the industry and 'Trap' is another film that adds to that reputation. It follows a father (Cooper), led by josh Hartnett, who lives a double life and Treats his daughter by taking her to a concert. Soon he realises he has been caught Amidst a sting operation. Once we learn more about Cooper's identity the film takes full charge engaging us to participate in a game of cat and mouse. I would highly recommend avoiding any promotional material/trailers as it does hinder the experience watching the film.

'Trap' is a fun ride that is super over the top in the best ways possible. It is filled with gorgeous cinematography that makes you feel claustrophobic and immerses you into the concert environment. It is coupled with a sensational soundtrack, which is cleverly crafted and performed by m. Night's daughter saleka, who plays 'lady raven'. The music excellently mirrors the tense moments in the film as well as making the concert experience feel real.

Narratively, 'Trap' starts steadily and we don't really know where the story is heading. This Is only until we learn more about Cooper and his identity, which accelerates the movie into gear. At first the dialogue within 'trap' feels rather odd and stilted, but Shyamalam does this on purpose to create this feeling of disorientation. He puts us in the position of Cooper's character trying to navigate his way around a concert, which is further complimented by the obscure Cinematography. We see things from Cooper's point of view, which feels anxious at times but keeps us engrossed in the story. There are parts in the third act which do make the film derail slightly with pacing issues and a slow climax but Shyamalan manages to put on the brakes and contain it.

Josh Hartnett steals the spotlight with a standout performance that is hilarious yet sinister. We see how Cooper has a great dynamic with his daughter 'Riley', played by Ariel Donoghue (who perfectly emulates young concertgoers), engaging in silly antics as well as embarrassing himself. But we are also presented with a disturbed version of cooper, which makes us confused on whether to laugh or shudder. I feel that the film does at times struggle to find that balance in tone but it also forces us to understand the mind of an unhinged individual, it is not so stable. The ability for Cooper to snap between emotions allows us to see the manipulative nature of his character and it is a brilliant display of acting from Josh Hartnett; I definitely hope we see more of him soon. 

Aside from the criticisms, Shyamalan provides us with a fun, suspenseful thriller that brings out lots of laughs and intrigue. It displays an interesting premise fulfilled by great performances, stellar sound design and unsettling visuals that can expect to keep audiences fully absorbed by Cooper's double life. I feel that viewers can appreciate the film's unserious nature at times as well as the uneasy moments and trap stands as a proof that m. Night can conjure up many more gripping stories.

Overall Rating: 7/10 - Definitely Recommend!

We attended the the UK Special Screening of 'Trap' held at Cineworld O2 Arena

M. Night Shyamalam Introducing 'Trap' in Cineworld O2 Arena