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" is a psychological thriller that became known for its particular narrative structure. The movie follows child psychologist Malcolm Crowe and his patient Cole Sear, a young boy who says he can see and speak with ghosts. As Crowe works to understand Cole's experiences, the story develops into a drama about loss and the supernatural. The film integrates themes of dying, guilt, and the afterlife within a mystery framework, aiming for a suspenseful viewing experience that slowly reveals its central enigma.
"The Sixth Sense" combines elements of psychological and supernatural horror with a grounded dramatic approach. The film's atmosphere is established through its Philadelphia settings and its focus on the internal struggles of its characters. While it operates as a ghost story, it also explores the emotional toll of secrets and the impact of the past on the present. The movie's critical reception and box office success at the time highlighted its effectiveness in blending genres and delivering a memorable conclusion.
The film's lasting impact is often tied to its specific narrative device. Reviewers have noted that its effectiveness in subsequent viewings can vary, but its initial impact on audiences was considerable. The story prioritizes character performances and a carefully constructed plot, aiming to create a sense of unease and curiosity that builds toward a singular reveal.
Why you might be searching for The Sixth Sense
Many people search for "The Sixth Sense" due to its notable plot twist, which left a significant impression on audiences. The film's exploration of a child who sees ghosts and the psychological elements involved also make it a memorable title.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer noted the film's impact upon release, recalling how audiences collectively gasped at the crucial turning point, leading many to re-watch the movie to understand how the twist was hidden.
Read the full reviewA critic found that while the slow-burn drama could be tedious at times, the film still worked on repeat viewings, even when the twist ending was known, and appreciated its aesthetic quality.
Read the full reviewThe film's greatest strength is its final plot twist, which allows all the puzzle pieces to fit together, according to one reviewer.
Read the full reviewA reviewer described the ending as leaving them speechless, stating that the film became truly remarkable at that point and that the best twists provide clues without making the outcome obvious.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream *The Sixth Sense* on Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV, FuboTV, and YouTube TV. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms like Amazon Video and Apple TV. If you prefer physical media, you can buy the DVD or Blu-ray from retailers like Barnes & Noble and Amazon [justwatch.com, en.wikipedia.org].
*The Sixth Sense* is an original psychological thriller written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan [en.wikipedia.org]. It is not based on a true story.
The film's twist ending reveals that Dr. Malcolm Crowe has been dead the entire time, having been shot by a former patient, Vincent Grey, in the opening scene [en.wikipedia.org, rogerebert.com]. He doesn't realize he's dead because, as Cole tells him, ghosts often only see what they want to see. Malcolm finally understands this when he sees his wife, Anna, drop his wedding ring and he notices it's not on his own finger, recalling Cole's words [en.wikipedia.org]. Realizing he is a ghost and that he had to help Cole, he tells Anna he loves her before his spirit departs, leaving her at peace [en.wikipedia.org].
*The Sixth Sense* is widely considered a worthwhile watch, praised for its captivating story and its memorable twist ending [en.wikipedia.org]. Critics lauded Haley Joel Osment's performance, and the film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture [en.wikipedia.org]. Even if you know the twist, the film is considered a strong psychological drama with excellent performances [rogerebert.com].