‘Trap' Ending Explained: Who is The Butcher? M Night Shyamalan upends expectations once again
Warning: Contains spoilers for 'Trap', reader's discretion advised
ONTARIO, CANADA: Visionary director M Night Shyamalan has returned with the psychological thriller 'Trap’, captivating audiences and leaving them yearning for more. Premiering on Friday, August 2, the film stars Josh Hartnett as Cooper and Ariel Donoghue as his teenage daughter, Riley.
What begins as an ordinary family outing quickly spirals into a nightmarish ordeal when they find themselves trapped in a diabolical scheme. The movie has garnered positive reviews from both fans and critics, with many already speculating about the possibility of a sequel. Shyamalan's signature twists and intense storytelling continue to resonate, making 'Trap' a must-see thriller.
The film expertly intertwines the exhilaration of a live concert with the dread of a lurking threat, amplifying the suspense as the audience is drawn into the unfolding chaos. Let's break down the film's shocking ending, unraveling the intricate twists and turns that define Shyamalan's work and leave audiences both satisfied and eager for more.
A high-stakes chase begins for Cooper in 'Trap'
Cooper takes his daughter, Riley, to the Lady Raven concert, only to discover it's a trap set by the FBI to catch him. Realizing something is amiss due to the heavy police presence, Cooper questions a merchandise vendor, who reveals the concert's true purpose: to capture The Butcher, an infamous killer.
Cooper, determined to evade capture and finish off his latest victim, Spencer, who is held captive in a hidden basement, devises an escape plan. Using his cunning and a bit of luck, he infiltrates employee areas and steals an FBI radio, allowing him to monitor law enforcement's moves.
Dr Grant, played by the legendary Hayley Mills, leads the operation and proves to be a formidable opponent. Realizing he can't escape through conventional chaos, Cooper attempts to convince Riley to sneak backstage through a trap door used by a performer. Riley, however, refuses, adding another layer of tension to their precarious situation.
Lady Raven’s involvement leads to a thrilling twist
Throughout most of the first hour, Lady Raven seems more a part of the setting than an actual character. As Cooper plans his escape, he decides backstage is their best bet. Riley mentions Lady Raven always picks a young girl to join her on stage, prompting Cooper to manipulate Lady Raven's uncle (played by Shyamalan) into selecting Riley.
Lady Raven and Riley share a quick bond, and Cooper arranges time backstage. However, their escape proves complicated as security searches for The Butcher backstage as well. Lady Raven's deeper involvement becomes apparent when she is revealed to be working directly with Dr Grant.
Desperate, Cooper threatens Lady Raven, demanding her help. She complies, getting them out but later reveals her complexity by visiting Cooper’s house, outsmarting him, and exposing his dark secrets to his family and the public.
Cooper's wife discovers his real identity
Back at home, Cooper's wife, Rachel, played by Alison Pill, has her own plans. After realizing Cooper is The Butcher, she collaborates with the FBI. Cooper, returning home to confront her, finds her prepared. She lures him into sharing a final dessert, using the opportunity to drug his pie.
As he succumbs, Dr Grant and her team storm in, arresting Cooper. In a tense moment, Cooper takes a moment to adjust his child's bike before being locked in a van. The film ends on a chilling note as Cooper, using a spoke from the bike, undoes his handcuffs.
With a sinister smile, he looks into the camera, hinting his deadly game is far from over. This ending leaves the audience with an unsettling ambiguity, suggesting that Cooper's reign of terror may continue.
Cat and Mouse game beings in the climactic twist for Cooper
As the FBI closes in, Cooper uses a hidden trapdoor in his home, mirroring his earlier escape idea. The police, expecting to find him, are confounded when Cooper outsmarts them yet again. Lady Raven, seemingly freed from Cooper's clutches, heads towards safety in a limo.
However, the twist reveals Cooper as the driver, handcuffing her inside. Lady Raven's quick thinking and public plea for help lead to a standoff. The FBI arrives, shooting out the tires, but Cooper's clever decoy ensures his escape. He blends into the crowd, disappearing once more.
This sequence underscores Cooper's resourcefulness and the perpetual cat-and-mouse game that defines 'Trap'.The audience is left with an exhilarating yet unsettling sense of unfinished business, perfectly capturing Shyamalan's knack for keeping viewers on the edge.
How did Lady Raven expose Cooper?
Despite Cooper's meticulous planning, Lady Raven proves to be a formidable opponent. Her quick wit and psychological acumen turn the tables on Cooper. When trapped in the limo, she uses social media to expose Cooper, rallying public support and catching the FBI's attention.
Her ability to outmaneuver Cooper in his own game highlights her complexity and strength. This dynamic shift not only adds depth to her character but also amplifies the tension and stakes of the film. By revealing Cooper's true nature and orchestrating his downfall, Lady Raven emerges as a pivotal figure in the narrative, her actions driving the plot towards its thrilling climax.
How does Rachel help FBI in arresting Cooper?
Rachel's role in Cooper's capture is a game-changer. Her discovery of Cooper's secret and subsequent collaboration with the FBI add a layer of domestic betrayal to the thriller. When Cooper returns home, expecting to find a compliant spouse, Rachel surprises him with her shrewdness.
Her decision to drug his dessert and orchestrate his capture demonstrates her resilience and strategic thinking. This final confrontation between Cooper and Rachel is a powerful moment, underscoring the personal stakes and emotional turmoil within the story. Rachel's actions not only bring justice but also provide a sense of closure, even as the film hints at Cooper's potential return.
Post-credit scene shows the aftermath in ‘Trap’
In the post-credit scene, 'Trap' embraces its bombastic nature with a nod to its outrageous elements. The merchandise vendor who unwittingly aided Cooper watches the evening news, realizing Cooper was The Butcher all along. His hysterical meltdown and vow to never trust anyone again provide a darkly humorous coda to the intense thriller.
This scene underscores the film's self-awareness and playful approach to its genre tropes. By blending tension with moments of levity, 'Trap' leaves audiences with a lasting impression, balancing psychological intrigue with a touch of satire. This final touch encapsulates the film's unique blend of suspense and dark humor.
'Trap' is available in theaters for watching