Crime thriller from iconic director that 'can be a bit ridiculous' is finally streaming

Daily Mirror

26-04-2025

It divided some fans
A crime thriller that's been hailed as 'absurdly brilliant' is now available for streaming.
Trap, the latest cinematic outing from iconic filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, known for iconic films like The Sixth Sense, is now accessible to fans via a Sky or NOW Cinema membership.
‌
Shyamalan, who also penned and directed other notable films such as Unbreakable, Split, Signs and The Knock at the Cabin, has even cast his own daughter in this suspenseful thriller. The film stars Josh Hartnett, recognised for his roles in Lucky Number Slevin and 30 Days of Night.
‌
The plot revolves around Cooper (Hartnett), a father who takes his teenage daughter to a concert, only to find themselves caught up in a complex and ominous event. The authorities have chosen this musical event as a trap to capture a notorious serial killer known as The Butcher, who they believe will be attending.
Armed officers are stationed at every exit of the arena, with cameras set up to ensnare the criminal. However, the seemingly loving father, Cooper, is actually the killer being pursued, and he must devise a plan to evade the trap, reports Surrey Live.
Upon its initial release, the film received a lukewarm response, with Josh Hartnett's performance earning accolades but failing to captivate even the most ardent Shyamalan enthusiasts. Now that it's available for streaming in the UK, there's anticipation that it will attract fresh viewers.
Despite its imperfections, some fans have expressed their admiration, with one enthusiast drawing parallels to the hit show Dexter, featuring a serial killer protagonist. They took to social media to share: "For all you Dexter fans out there, couple the overtones from this critically acclaimed series with the creative intrigue and genius of M. Night Shyamalan and what do you have? You've got a winning combination. This combination is precisely what you get in the movie, Trap."
‌
Another viewer offered their take on the film, calling it "Ludicrous, in the best way. Good fun thriller, over the top, a little like Split in that respect."
However, they also hinted that Shyamalan casting his daughter may not have been the wisest move. They remarked: "Third act is weaker, including the let down acting of Shyamalan's daughter, Saleka, which threatens to derail the whole film when the time comes for her to act (rather than sing, as Lady Raven), but that's M Night Shyamalan all over and, besides, it sort of redeems itself at the end. "
They continued: "Josh Hartnett is a treat to watch, as is the young actress, Ariel Donoghue, who plays his daughter, very natural. Don't take it seriously, have no specific expectations, own a get-in-free card and it's a joy to ride this coaster. I will come back to it again and again."
‌
Trap might not be bagging any awards for best film in Shyamalan's repertoire, often known for its twist endings. A viewer bemoaned: "Possibly one of the worst movies I've ever had the displeasure of watching. The twist is that I wasted nearly 3 hours of my life."
Yet, the movie hasn't been left without its champions; an enthusiast stated: "Although the plot can be a bit ridiculous at times, this film is entertaining and interesting enough to be worth a watch. Josh Hartnett is AMAZING in his role and really carries the film."
One viewer was keen to sing the praises of the director and the star's chilling portrayal, urging: "Do not sleep on this movie. Josh Hartnett absolutely delivers a chilling performance in this film. From beginning to the very end, you're sitting with an uncomfortable outside perspective that keeps you on the edge of your seat. In typical Shyamalan style, just when you think you know what's going to happen next - You're dead wrong."