Upon release, The Trigger Effect received mixed reviews from critics. Writing for Entertainment Weekly, film critic Lisa Schwarzbaum described The Trigger Effect as "a sturdy and efficient thriller", while Marc Savlov, writing for The Austin Chronicle, highlighted Koepp's ability to gradually increase the tension as the film progresses.
Upon its release, The Trigger Effect received mixed reviews from critics. Entertainment Weekly critic Lisa Schwarzbaum praised it as a "sturdy and efficient thriller," while The Austin Chronicle's Marc Savlov commended Koepp for his skill in building suspense throughout the film.