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A new thriller emerges: M. Night Shyamalan’s “Trap” and the musical magic of Saleka Shyamalan
A family affair: The Shyamalan collaboration
In the world of cinema, few names evoke the same level of intrigue and anticipation as M. Night Shyamalan. Known for his masterful storytelling and unexpected twists, Shyamalan’s latest project, “Trap,” promises to be another thrilling addition to his illustrious career. However, this time, the spotlight is shared with his daughter, Saleka Shyamalan, a talented singer and actress who plays a pivotal role both on-screen and behind the scenes.
The plot thickens: A concert turned sinister
“Trap,” set to release on August 2, stars Saleka as Lady Raven, a fictional pop icon whose concert becomes the backdrop for a chilling narrative. The film also features Josh Hartnett, Hayley Mills, and Marnie McPhail. Hartnett plays a devoted father who takes his teenage daughter to see Lady Raven perform, only to find themselves entangled in a sinister plot as police swarm the venue in search of a serial killer. The tension and suspense are palpable, promising a gripping experience for viewers.
For a sneak peek, watch the trailer for “Trap”.
The soundtrack: A symphony of emotions
Saleka’s involvement in “Trap” extends beyond her acting role. She composed, performed, and produced 14 songs for the film’s soundtrack album, “Lady Raven.” The album features collaborations with notable artists such as Kid Cudi, Russ, and Amaarae, adding a rich, diverse soundscape to the film.
The single “Save Me” is a standout track, encapsulating the emotional depth and complexity of the film. Saleka’s haunting vocals and poignant lyrics resonate with the film’s themes, creating a powerful synergy between the music and the narrative.
Listen to Saleka’s “Save Me” to experience the magic firsthand.
A creative process: Father and daughter in harmony
The genesis of “Trap” is as fascinating as the film itself. M. Night Shyamalan drew inspiration from watching his daughter perform, leading to a unique collaborative process. As he wrote the script, Saleka simultaneously crafted the songs, each piece intricately woven into the fabric of the story.
“I would say to Saleka, ‘This is the outline, and we need this moment here. This is what he’s doing at this moment, and I need a song here,’ and she just went away and wrote, kind of slightly scoring it in the way she was writing the songs,” Shyamalan shared in an interview with Variety.
Saleka’s approach to the soundtrack was both intentional and liberating. “There’s a duality. I wanted to make an album that could stand on its own and embody the sounds and genres I love. At the same time, every song was made for a specific scene with clear intention,” she explained.
Bollywood and beyond: A fusion of influences
The Shyamalan family’s love for Bollywood and musicals significantly influenced “Trap.” Saleka revealed that “Purple Rain” is a family favorite, and the desire to blend film and music in a meaningful way was a driving force behind the project.
“Film and music are also equally important in Bollywood. We wanted to bring these two art forms together in a very deliberate way. The concept started in the kitchen, and I wrote a lot of the songs in the living room. I’ve gotten to try musical ideas I never had before. It’s so pure and special to me,” Saleka said.
Reflecting on the journey
“Trap” is more than just a film; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the seamless integration of music and storytelling. The Shyamalan duo has created a work that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, offering audiences a unique cinematic experience.
As we await the release of “Trap,” the anticipation builds not just for the story, but for the rich tapestry of music and emotion that Saleka and M. Night Shyamalan have woven together. This project stands as a reminder of the endless possibilities that arise when creativity and passion intersect.
For more information and to stay updated, visit the official “Trap” page.
The journey of “Trap” is a reflection of the Shyamalan family’s artistic synergy, leaving us eager to see what they will create next.
