The Sixth Sense

The Sixth Sense is an intimate little thriller that revolves around four troubled people. It is delicately frightening, spiritually romantic and fiercely sad. Even on repeat viewings, you will not find a scene in it that doesn’t work for both faces of the schizophrenically double-sided narrative, connected with the final point that changes everything. Everything is put perfectly in place and it is almost unbelievable how precisely the primary face of the film, perceived by the “virgin” viewer, can function in this condition. The Sixth Sense is Shyamalan’s smallest and most encapsulated film, which is perhaps the reason that many of his fans, myself included, rate it as being somewhat weaker than Unbreakable and Signs. But hand on heart: isn’t it an equal emotional bombshell built on the foundation of an equally perfectionist screenplay and form? Perhaps only James Newton Howard’s music doesn’t have quite the same distinctiveness and character-related connection with the film here as it does in the two aforementioned masterpieces. (05/19/2005)

The Sixth Sense seems like an unremarkable film throughout, but then in the last seconds comes a brilliant twist that turns the plot on its head. And it’s even better on a second viewing. If you haven't seen it yet and someone wants to tell you the ending, get a stick and chase them away from you. (04/13/2003)

Thumbs up, no doubt, but I like Unbreakable better :-) (12/09/2007)

I must confess that, after the huge fuss around The Sixth Sense, I am rather disappointed with the result. It's a nice ghost story, some moments are chilling and the performances of Osment and Willis are excellent. Oddly enough, the final twist seemed far-fetched to me, though very original. Shyamalan obviously has a considerable talent for dramatic gradation of shots as well as the ability to play with the viewer's psyche, but it's not my type of film. (02/01/2004)

After seeing the first showing on the day of the premiere, without any prior information this really was a powerful and utterly unforgettable experience. Paradoxically, unlike other Shyamalan movies, this is only watchable twice. After that it just doesn’t work. The Sixth Sense lacks what is to be found in Unbreakable for instance, which reveals newer and newer layers every time you watch it again. The actors, especially Osment, are absolutely convincing and also there is no sense in singing the praises of Night’s directing, which is perfect in every respect. The same applies to the atmosphere. Anyhow, I reiterate that the first time you watch it is an unforgettable experience (but maybe not anymore, because everybody knows what happens even if they haven’t seen it), and so I have no choice but to give it a full set of stars. (11/20/2003)

Innovative, suspenseful, and truly unique for its time. However, for me, the Meaning is revolutionary mainly in the aspect of giving us Shye. Although he belongs to my most beloved creators, his first hit is just a prelude to the dazzling stories he will once serve to the audience. But that doesn't mean any shame, it's just a one-bite appetizer compared to later pieces, which amuses me, maybe even astonishes me several times - but despite Willis' perfect performance, I won't have an infinite desire to watch it again. (05/24/2006)

If my mom hadn’t spoiled the ending, I might have gone for five stars. Damn, it was my own fault, I shouldn't have asked so many questions. A lesson for the future... (05/08/2006)

A wonderfully crafted ghost story with excellent atmosphere and subtle hints that enhance the experience of the unique ending. Essentially flawless in its script and devoid of any unnecessary scenes. Unfortunately, some scenes lacked drive and had a too slow pace. Additionally, the portrayal of Haley Joel Osment as the patient seemed too smart for a nine-year-old child. His speaking style and behavior did not correspond to his age. Bruce Willis surprisingly portrayed a sensitive and non-cliché action hero. Arguably Shyamalan's best film. (05/07/2005)

An incredibly impressive film with a truly unexpected climax that actually put everything else on the back burner and ensured The Sixth Sense and director Shyamalan's undying fame. A great ghostly atmosphere, an excellent script, an incredible Osment, and the awesome Bruce in a slightly unconventional but perhaps his best role, where he fully displays his acting abilities. It’s a bit of a shame that the precision and finesse of the film didn't quite allow me to get deeper into Shyamalan's narrative than half a metre from the screen (and that's only in the tense moments). But that's only a minor blemish on this otherwise masterfully crafted horror film, which deservedly ranks among the genre's best. Very strong 4* for me. (08/23/2012)

A very well made ghost thriller, supported by great performances with a truly original and shocking conclusion. What I consider Shyamalan's "most intimate" and "thought-out" film. (11/28/2009)