MINIMALIST MASTERPIECE

Rating: 10/10 (17 August 1999)

Depending upon when you get IT, THE SIXTH SENSE is either: o Somber, episodic and only infrequently scary, or o Gripping, suspenseful, frightening, and surprisingly touching.
I think it is the latter. It's also beautifully written, directed and acted.

Because it is so unconventional (More Hitchcock than Spielberg), and uses cinematic elements (lighting, sound, editing) rather than special effects to provide its horror, it is not surprising THE SIXTH SENSE crept into theaters. What IS surprising is its excellent box office so early in its release cycle. This once again demonstrates a literate, entertaining film CAN find an audience in these days of megabuck special effects extravaganzas.
THE SIX SENSE is the best suspense film since SILENCE OF THE LAMBS.