a beautiful, beautiful film

Rating: 10/10 (3 February 2000)

A lot of focus is given to this film's surprise ending, which some people complain they can see coming (although I didn't). But, the ending, although a great and beautiful one, is not the best thing about this movie, nor is it a good reason to see it. For my money, the reason The Sixth Sense is so good and so respected stems from the atmosphere that it creates. This is a quiet, meditative movie - one that draws you into its core and actually fosters that "wow" sensation that movies are supposed to create (most don't, if you ask me). The acting is superb in its subtlety - not just in the case of Willis and Osment but also supporting players Williams and Collette. Of course, Shyamalan's excellent script and direction don't hurt the movie either.
If you figure out the ending early on, don't worry about it. It's worth your time to see how the story plays out. Also, be sure to pay close attention to the role of the color red - it has an important symbolic function. 10/10