Trap (2024)
Directed by M. Night Shyamalan
[Rated R] 1hr 45min
★★★
Trap is a psychological thriller about a father and daughter who attend a famous pop star’s concert, which appears to have an unusually high amount of security. When the father tries to find out what’s going on, he eventually learns the disturbing truth about the events taking place and tries to escape with his daughter.
M. Night Shyamalan is great at building tension, and he fully embraces it in this film. He creates an immensely tense atmosphere that increasingly builds as the story progresses, and this provides a thoroughly captivating experience. The acting is also a highlight of the film, but the dialogue can be too direct and unconvincing at times. The narrative doesn’t have much to offer either, as it primarily works to drive the film’s tone, so the story feels insufficient by the end. Although there are many contrived plot details that steer the narrative in absurd directions, they still contribute to elevating the incredible anxiety-inducing atmosphere. The resulting story is simultaneously silly and stressful, and this unique combination is highly effective at making the movie very entertaining.
Trap is a refreshing, original film that I recommend for anyone wanting to see something new from the thriller genre. Whether a fan of Shyamalan’s recent work or not, this is a film that’s completely worth watching for the intense and riveting experience it provides.
Trap is now playing in theaters. Click here to watch the Official Trailer.
– Review by Will Hopper