In Bryn Chainey’s directorial debut, “Rabbit Trap,” audiences are drawn into a hauntingly atmospheric world where sound plays a pivotal role. Set in 1976 Wales, the film follows Darcy Davenport and his wife Daphne, portrayed by Dev Patel and Rosy McEwen, respectively, as they create music in their isolated home. Their lives are disrupted by an unnamed child, triggering a series of unsettling events that challenge their artistic sanctuary. While the concept is ambitious and the performances are compelling, “Rabbit Trap” sometimes struggles with clarity and cohesiveness, leaving viewers both captivated and perplexed.
At its core, “Rabbit Trap” explores the intimate dynamics between the characters, particularly through the lens of sound. As Darcy records various noises around their property, Daphne transforms these recordings into pulsating music. This unique relationship highlights their commitment to artistic expression but also sets the stage for the story’s eerie developments. As the couple interacts with the mysterious child, portrayed by Jade Croot, the atmosphere shifts, and they are forced to confront fears that manifest both in their art and in dreamlike terrors.
Chainey’s innovative approach to sound design is one of the film’s standout features. The sounds that permeate the film create a sense of discomfort and tension, effectively drawing the audience into a world that feels simultaneously familiar and unsteady. However, while this focus on auditory experience is novel, it does not compensate for moments where the narrative loses its direction. Chainey has crafted a visually stunning film, bolstered by excellent cinematography from Andreas Johannessen, yet the clarity of the plot sometimes falters amid its ambition.
The film’s pacing also reflects its slow-burn nature. With much time spent establishing the Davenport couple’s routines and their artistic interactions, the subsequent arrival of the child feels both jarring and inevitable. “Rabbit Trap” promises an exploration of deeper themes, but its lingering ambiguity sometimes leads to frustration. Chainey attempts to foster intrigue through vagueness, aiming to keep audiences guessing; however, these efforts result in a narrative that may leave viewers lost, craving more precise guidance on the unfolding mystery.
Despite some narrative missteps, Patel delivers a nuanced performance that helps anchor the film. His portrayal of Darcy captures a mix of curiosity and dread, a reflection of his character’s internal struggles. Alongside McEwen, the two convey a relationship fraught with unspoken tensions, enhancing the film’s emotional weight. Croot’s performance is particularly noteworthy, as her presence disrupts the couple’s fragile equilibrium. The shifts in their dynamics raise questions about innocence, creativity, and the effect of external influences on intimate relationships.
Thematically, “Rabbit Trap” attempts to weave together elements of horror, fantasy, and mystery. While these genres blend effectively at times, the film occasionally feels overwhelmed by its aspirations. Chainey’s script grapples with maintaining coherence as it juggles various ideas, leading to sections where the narrative emphasizes style over substance. This ambition, while commendable, sometimes detracts from the overall impact of the story, making it challenging for viewers to fully engage with the plot’s evolution.
Chainey’s ability to create atmosphere cannot be overstated, and his skillful use of sound and visuals creates a hauntingly beautiful experience. Yet, as the film progresses, its narrative complexity can become a hindrance. The audience is left to decipher what lies beneath the surface, seeking meaning in a tapestry of motifs that are at times loosely connected. This search for clarity may eclipse the emotional resonance that the film aspires to achieve.
“Rabbit Trap” had its world premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, where the audience acknowledged the promising elements within Chainey’s filmmaking. The film is undeniably a reflection of a director exploring his style and themes, with visions of grandeur that might flourish in future works. While the story itself may seem unintelligible at points, it leaves viewers with a sense of hope for what Chainey could accomplish as he refines his craft.
In conclusion, “Rabbit Trap” showcases Dev Patel’s haunting performance amidst a bold and unsettling narrative. While the film grapples with its ambitious storytelling and at times convoluted themes, it undeniably serves as a noteworthy introduction to Bryn Chainey’s directorial talents. As audiences navigate the layers of sound and meaning within this folk horror fairy tale, the potential for compelling storytelling shines through, hinting at the possibility of greater coherence in Chainey’s future projects.
