The Sixth Sense (1999)
Following an unexpected tragedy, child psychologist Malcolm Crowe meets a nine year old boy named Cole Sear, who is hiding a dark secret.
Details
Budget
$40,000,000
Rating
8/10 (11925 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Spyglass Entertainment, The Kennedy/Marshall Company, Hollywood Pictures, Barry Mendel Productions
About The Sixth Sense
M. Night Shyamalan's 1999 film, "The Sixth Sense," explores themes of death, loss, and the afterlife through the eyes of a child psychologist and his young patient. The narrative centers on Dr. Malcolm Crowe, who works with Cole Sear, a boy who claims to see ghosts. The story unfolds as Crowe attempts to understand Cole's experiences, navigating the complexities of belief and psychological interpretation.
The film is structured as a psychological thriller with elements of drama and mystery, drawing viewers into Cole's isolated world where paranormal phenomena are a daily reality. The screenplay uses atmosphere and character interaction to build suspense, rather than relying on overt horror tactics. This approach allows the film to delve into the emotional impact of Cole's abilities on both himself and those around him, including his mother, played by Toni Collette.
"The Sixth Sense" became notable for its unexpected plot twist, which reframes the entire narrative upon a second viewing. This device contributed significantly to its cultural impact and critical discussion. The film's strength lies in its performances, particularly from Haley Joel Osment as Cole and Bruce Willis as Crowe, and its ability to maintain a sense of unease and intrigue throughout its runtime.
Why you might be searching for The Sixth Sense
People often search for "The Sixth Sense" due to its famous twist ending, which became a significant talking point upon its release. Specific searches also relate to the young boy's iconic line, "I see dead people," and the general premise of a child who can communicate with ghosts. Many seek to understand how the twist was hidden in plain sight or to revisit key scenes that foreshadow the reveal.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer noted the film's significant impact in 1999, recalling how audiences were surprised by the twist and many went to see it multiple times to observe how the director managed to conceal the ending.
Read the full reviewA review mentioned that the film, starring Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment, holds up even when the viewer knows the major plot reveal, emphasizing its slow-burn dramatic qualities and effective aesthetic choices.
Read the full reviewAnother reviewer stated that the film's ending left them speechless, praising how well the twist was executed by providing clues without making the outcome obvious, and highlighting strong performances from the cast.
Read the full reviewA reviewer found the movie to be an excellent example of storytelling and acting, noting that these elements surpassed the need for extensive special effects, and that the twist significantly impressed them.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "The Sixth Sense" on services like Apple TV, Peacock Premium, YouTube TV, and AMC. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, and Fandango At Home. For physical copies, you can find it on DVD and Blu-ray from retailers like Barnes & Noble and Amazon.
No, "The Sixth Sense" is not based on a true story. It is a psychological thriller film written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan.
At the end of "The Sixth Sense," Dr. Malcolm Crowe realizes he has been dead the entire time he was working with Cole. He was shot by a former patient, Vincent Grey, at the beginning of the film and did not survive. Malcolm's ghost lingered because he had unresolved issues, particularly his desire to help someone and reconcile with his wife, Anna. After Cole helps him understand that dead people only see what they want to see, Malcolm sees his gunshot injury and remembers being shot, understanding his true state. He then communicates with Anna, who is sleeping, telling her she was never second and that he loves her, allowing his spirit to depart.
"The Sixth Sense" is widely considered worth watching, often praised for its compelling story, strong performances, and unexpected twist ending. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes gave it an 86% approval rating, with many highlighting its emotional depth and lasting impact.