The Sixth Sense Review

Written by: Moviemaven   

M. Night Shymalan bursts onto the scene with his directorial debut, The Sixth Sense. Not only did he take Hollywood by storm, but he impressed the Hell out of me as well. I will admit I didn't guess the ending. And you know what, I'm proud of that. I would hate to have known what was coming before it did. But then, I make it a point NOT to attempt to figure out films while watching them. I enjoy seeing what the director chooses us to see when he/she wants us to see it. Of course sometimes that plan bites me in the ass. But I am happy to report that was not the case with this movie.

Some may argue that The Sixth Sense is not as much a horror film as a psychological thriller. I say phooey on that notion. Certain scenes *cough...blanket girl..cough* scared me silly. It was refreshing to see something so startling and exciting as this.

Apart from the terrific plot, this film showcases some amazing acting from some of my favorites. Okay, one of my faves. Bruce Willis is Malcolm Crowe and I would watch him stand in the corner. Madeleine Stowe is his wife, Toni Collete is the frazzled mother, and Haley Joel Osment turns out a gripping performance as the young Cole.

You must also be sure to go back and check out the visual clues he leaves throughout the film. But not until you are done. Understand me? I mean that. LOL

The reknowned child psychologist, Dr. Malcolm Crowe is surprised one night in his home by a distraught former patient who claims that he got no real help. After this encounter, the good doctor decides to be more attentive to his patients. Enter disturbed child, Cole Sear. He has many of the same characteristics as the former patient and Dr. Crowe decides he will help Cole like he could never help the other child.

Cole has fear issues. Baaad fear issues. So much so that he has trouble making friends because the other kids see him as a weirdo. He gets little sleep and has all sorts of rituals to keep himself safe. Malcolm soon discovers that Cole's problems stem from the fact that he (c'mon you know what's coming) sees dead people. Why and how are what they need to figure out. Well, at least the why. So it's off to the races as we watch this gripping story unfold.

It would be sooo cruel of me to give away the ending... so here it is. Just kidding. If you haven't seen this film, you should. Just don't try and figure it out. Let yourself go and enjoy the ride. Trust me, its worth it.