The Sixth Sense

A wonderfully crafted ghost story with excellent atmosphere and subtle hints that enhance the experience of the unique ending. Essentially flawless in its script and devoid of any unnecessary scenes. Unfortunately, some scenes lacked drive and had a too slow pace. Additionally, the portrayal of Haley Joel Osment as the patient seemed too smart for a nine-year-old child. His speaking style and behavior did not correspond to his age. Bruce Willis surprisingly portrayed a sensitive and non-cliché action hero. Arguably Shyamalan's best film. (08/05/2005)

I must confess that, after the huge fuss around The Sixth Sense, I am rather disappointed with the result. It's a nice ghost story, some moments are chilling and the performances of Osment and Willis are excellent. Oddly enough, the final twist seemed far-fetched to me, though very original. Shyamalan obviously has a considerable talent for dramatic gradation of shots as well as the ability to play with the viewer's psyche, but it's not my type of film. (01/02/2004)

The Sixth Sense seems like an unremarkable film throughout, but then in the last seconds comes a brilliant twist that turns the plot on its head. And it’s even better on a second viewing. If you haven't seen it yet and someone wants to tell you the ending, get a stick and chase them away from you. (13/04/2003)

The Sixth Sense is an acting tour de force by (especially) little Haley Joel Osment (a well deserved Oscar nomination!) and Bruce Willis, and it is a perfectly handled directorial affair on M. Night Shyamalan's part. All sorts of subtle hints surface throughout the story, eventually leading to a shocking reveal that just makes this film unforgettable. In short, for me, a near perfect ghost thriller that lacks a greater dose of suspense in individual scenes to be perfect. (14/08/2011)

An incredibly impressive film with a truly unexpected climax that actually put everything else on the back burner and ensured The Sixth Sense and director Shyamalan's undying fame. A great ghostly atmosphere, an excellent script, an incredible Osment, and the awesome Bruce in a slightly unconventional but perhaps his best role, where he fully displays his acting abilities. It’s a bit of a shame that the precision and finesse of the film didn't quite allow me to get deeper into Shyamalan's narrative than half a metre from the screen (and that's only in the tense moments). But that's only a minor blemish on this otherwise masterfully crafted horror film, which deservedly ranks among the genre's best. Very strong 4* for me. (24/08/2012)