By Steven Nelson
| Published
Ever felt like time’s slipping away too quickly? Enter the world of Time Trap, a mind-bending adventure that takes this concept to a whole new level. This overlooked 2017 cinematic journey propels its viewers into a mysterious cave where the laws of time don’t apply. And best of all, its currently free to stream.
Time Trap spins a tale that ventures into the perplexing anomalies of time. The narrative kicks off with Professor Hopper, played by the talented Andrew Wilson, who is driven by a mysterious disappearance years prior. When he and a group of his students set off to search for their missing peers, they stumble upon a cave that’s anything but ordinary. Inside, time doesn’t just tick away, it leaps.
Moments outside the cave’s confines translate to centuries within its walls. As the crew delves deeper, they encounter remnants of varied eras, from ancient conquerors to 1960s flower children, all equally trapped in this temporal abyss. Facing dwindling resources and the age-advancing effects of the cave, the expedition becomes a frantic race against time itself.
Behind the camera, Time Trap owes its distinct vision to co-directors Mark Dennis and Ben Foster. They successfully weave a plot that oscillates between tension and wonder, ensuring viewers are as invested in the characters’ fates as they are in the overarching temporal puzzle.
Alongside Andrew Wilson’s Professor Hopper, the film features a passionate cast: Cassidy Gifford shines as the tenacious Cara, Brianne Howey brings depth to her portrayal of Jackie, and Reiley McClendon injects a spirited energy into his role as Taylor. Together, this ensemble breathes life into a premise that demands a balance of heart, curiosity, and survival instinct.
Time Trap garnered mixed reactions from critics, with some lauding its imaginative concept while others found fault in its execution. A key highlight for many was the film’s inventive take on time travel, which set it apart from other genre entries.
Time Trap is sitting at 62% on Rotten Tomatoes
Critics acknowledged Mark Dennis and Ben Foster’s ambitious storytelling, especially given what was presumably a tighter budget compared to blockbuster sci-fi flicks. It’s sitting at 62 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, giving credence to this mixed-bag idea.
Some reviewers felt that the movie’s pacing lagged in places, and its character development left a bit to be desired. A section of critics agreed that, while the premise was intriguing, the narrative sometimes struggled to keep up with its own complexity, occasionally leaving the audience more bewildered than bewitched.
Reactions in the audience were also varied. Many viewers appreciated the film’s fresh perspective on a well-trodden genre, and its indie charm resonated with those tired of formulaic big-studio productions. In contrast, others expressed a desire for a more polished storyline and tighter character arcs.
In essence, Time Trap positioned itself as a divisive film. While it might not have been a universally acclaimed masterpiece, it certainly staked its claim as an interesting, thought-provoking addition to
Time Trap carves out its own temporal niche. It might not boast the pop culture status of Back to the Future or the deep philosophical musings of Primer. Still, its unique blend of adventure and intrigue ensures it should be more than a footnote in the annals of time travel cinema. Time Trap offers a fresh perspective, a unique setting, and enough twists to keep even seasoned time-travel enthusiasts on their toes.
If you’re interested in giving it a shot, Time Tap is currently free to stream on Tubi.
