For fans of M. Night Shyamalan, the anticipation surrounding his latest film, "Trap," has been palpable. Many hoped that this new thriller might signal a return to the glory days of "The Sixth Sense," "Unbreakable," "Signs," and even "Split." The director, known for his knack for suspense and twist endings, once held audiences in thrall, creating classic thrillers that lingered in the public imagination long after the credits rolled.

However, I hold this truth to be self-evident: It's bad mojo when a studio refuses to advance screen a movie for critics. history has shown that such a move often spells trouble (think of "Snakes on a Plane"). For a hot minute, there was a glimmer of hope that Shyamalan might beat the jinx with "Trap," now in theaters, trying to lure audiences before the wretched word gets out. Unfortunately, "Trap" quickly dives off the cliff from disappointment to disaster.

The film's premise promised intrigue, with trailers hinting at a complex plot woven with Shyamalan’s signature twists. Yet, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that "Trap" lacks the finesse and depth that made his earlier works memorable. Instead of gripping suspense, audiences are left with a narrative that feels disjointed and predictable.

Shyamalan’s talent for creating atmospheric tension seems to falter here. The characters, who should be the heart of the story, come off as flat and uninspired, their actions driven more by plot necessity than believable motivation. The film’s pacing, crucial for building suspense, wavers, often dragging in moments where it should be accelerating towards a thrilling climax.

Moreover, the much-anticipated twist, a hallmark of Shyamalan’s films, falls flat. Instead of the jaw-dropping revelation fans have come to expect, "Trap" offers a twist that feels more contrived than clever. It’s a far cry from the stunning reveals of "The Sixth Sense" or the intricate plotting of "Unbreakable."

For those hoping that "Trap" might mark Shyamalan's return to form, the reality is a sobering disappointment. The film serves as a reminder that even a director with a storied past can stumble, and sometimes, the weight of expectations can be its own trap. As "Trap" continues its theatrical run, it becomes evident that this latest offering will not be joining the ranks of Shyamalan’s classics but will instead be remembered as a missed opportunity.

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