By Justin D Williams
M. Night Shyamalan’s latest film, Trap, brings a blend of suspense and familial drama, starring Josh Hartnett and Ariel Donoghue. While the movie has its moments of brilliance, particularly in the performances of its leads, it ultimately falls short of the high expectations set by the director's previous works.
Josh Hartnett delivers a menacing performance as Cooper, a complex character whose dark past unravels throughout the film. Hartnett’s portrayal is both intense and nuanced, making Cooper a figure who is as intriguing as he is terrifying. Hartnett's ability to switch from loving father to monster was the highlight of the film.
Ariel Donoghue, playing Cooper's daughter Riley, shines brightly alongside Hartnett. Donoghue's ability to convey a wide range of emotions—from innocence and fear to courage and resilience—adds depth to the film. The chemistry between Hartnett and Donoghue is palpable, creating a believable and touching father-daughter dynamic that anchors the movie.
Despite the strong performances, Trap is not without its flaws. Saleka Shyamalan, M. Night Shyamalan’s daughter, plays Lady Raven, a pivotal character whose presence unfortunately detracts from the film's overall quality. While Saleka has demonstrated her talent in the music industry, her acting in Trap feels lackluster. Her portrayal of Lady Raven lacks the depth and intensity needed to match the performances of Hartnett and Donoghue, making her character feel out of place and underdeveloped.
The plot itself also misses the mark in several key areas. Characters often deliver exposition in a way that feels forced and unnatural, which diminishes the tension and suspense. Instead of letting the mystery unfold organically, the script opts for easy explanations that undermine the film's potential for genuine intrigue. This approach disrupts the pacing and reduces the impact of key plot twists.
M. Night Shyamalan’s Trap offers glimpses of brilliance, particularly in the standout performances of Josh Hartnett and Ariel Donoghue. Their chemistry and individual portrayals elevate the film, providing emotional depth and intensity. However, the movie is ultimately let down by weak supporting characters and a plot that relies too heavily on clumsy exposition.
While Trap is not without its merits, it fails to live up to the high standards set by Shyamalan’s earlier works. Fans of Hartnett and Donoghue will appreciate their performances, but the film as a whole may leave audiences wanting more. A prequel focusing on Hartnett’s character could provide the deeper, more satisfying narrative that Trap hints at but never fully delivers.
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