Trap movie review and star rating: ★★★

It feels like a long time ago that director M. Night Shyalaman captivated Hollywood with thrilling crime thrillers like “Unbreakable,” “Signs,” and “The Sixth Sense.” His unique take on horror has met with moderate success in the new release “Trap.”

It draws on pop culture through lead actor Josh Hartnett, who plays Cooper, a stuffy father who takes his daughter Riley (Ariel Donoghue) to a concert by music sensation Lady Raven (Saleka Night Shyalaman) when things get out of hand.

Noticing the increased security, he learns that the concert is being used to catch wanted serial killer The Butcher. What emerges is a clever premise that will appeal to the millions who flock to arenas to see their pop idols and face the threat of terrorism, as happened to Ariana Grande in Manchester in 2019 and as the threat looks at Taylor Swift’s concerts this month.

However, the plot cannot last forever. Cooper is the luckiest criminal in the world, with twists that range from improbable to ridiculous. Thrillers are rarely realistic, however, and Shyalaman does a good job of ratcheting up the tension.

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After making his name as a heartthrob, it’s surprising to see Hartnett’s dark side. It’s a great performance that elevates some of the slower moments and shaky supporting roles (Saleka Night Shyalaman won’t win any awards for her wooden pop diva).

Film buffs will be happy to see Hollywood veteran Hayley Mills in a classy role as an FBI profiler who gives explanations over a walkie-talkie. Trap is a thoroughly entertaining cat-and-mouse thriller with a strong lead character that will send chills down your spine. We’re a long way from Shyalaman’s heyday with Sixth Sense, but it still manages to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Trap will be in cinemas from August 9th

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