The Sixth Sense (1999)

Directed by M. Night Shyamalan. Starring Haley Joel Osment, Bruce Willis, Toni Collette, Olivia Williams, Donnie Wahlberg, Glenn Fitzgerald, Mischa Barton, Angelica Page. [PG-13]

Having failed to help a former patient who commits suicide in front of him, Willis’ child psychologist is determined to help another youngster (Osment) with a very serious problem—the introverted boy is able to see the spirits of the deceased all around him (or, as he utters in the film’s famous line, “I see dead people”). Solid supernatural thriller creates a low-key, almost queasy atmosphere of dread that is maintained throughout most of the film, thanks in large part to Osment’s excellent performance (one of the finest that a child actor has ever delivered), the understated and introspective intensity from co-star Willis, and the confident craft of its young writer/director. Indeed, this surprise blockbuster put Shyamalan on the map in a big way…and it’s anyone’s guess how he kept getting work in the next century, because he’s only come remotely close to this level one more time (Unbreakable). Succumbs to mawkishness and cheap maneuvers to inspire an unnecessary jolt or two, but its unnatural story structure is actually refreshing, and there is, of course, the much-ballyhooed surprise near the end, which may not hold up to scrutiny, but at least the film doesn’t cheat. Collette is also very good as the protagonist’s weary-but-devoted working-class mom. Shyamalan cameos as a doctor.

78/100