Dexter fans have been told to check out an ‘over the top’ crime thriller that is now available for streaming.
Trap is accessible for those with a Sky or NOW Cinema membership.
This suspenseful film was released last year and is the latest creation from the controversial filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan, known for unforgettable films like The Sixth Sense.
Shyamalan, who also wrote and directed other notable movies such as Unbreakable, Split, Signs and The Knock at the Cabin, cast his own daughter in this ensemble piece.
The film stars Josh Hartnett, recognised for his roles in Lucky Number Slevin and 30 Days of Night.
The plot of this gripping thriller revolves around Cooper (Hartnett), a father who takes his teenage daughter to a concert, only to find themselves caught up in a sinister scheme. The authorities have chosen this music event as the perfect opportunity to apprehend an infamous serial killer known as The Butcher, who they believe will be attending.
Armed officers are stationed at every exit of the arena, and cameras are set up to ensnare the criminal. However, the twist is that Cooper, who initially seems to be a doting father, is actually the killer being pursued, and he must devise a plan to evade capture, reports Surrey Live.
Upon its initial release, the film received a mixed reception, with Josh Hartnett’s performance earning accolades but it overall failed to captivate even the most ardent Shyamalan enthusiast.
Now, as it becomes available for streaming in the UK, there are high hopes it will entice a fresh cohort of viewers.
Despite its imperfections, some aficionados have lauded the film, with one enthusiast drawing parallels to the beloved series Dexter, featuring a serial killer protagonist. They took to social media to express their thoughts: “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 characterised the movie as “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. 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.”
Yet, Trap is unlikely to clinch the title of Shyamalan’s best work, often known for his signature twist endings. One viewer expressed their disappointment: “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.”
Nonetheless, the film has its champions, with one fan asserting: “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 heaped praise on the film’s tense portrayal, stating: “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.”
Trap is streaming on Sky Cinema and NOW.