The sixth sense review

As the film goes on Dr Crow and Cole grow to trust each other until after a frightening encounter at chucky cheese he learns Cole’s secret. The grey air of a hospital ward is filled by the frightened child’s steamy breath as he utters the now clichéd words –‘I see dead people’. It is from then that the audience begins to see these frightening characters everywhere and truly begins to understand Cole’s fear, each ghost in a seemingly merciless and selfish quest.

The film centres on the relationship of Cole and Dr Crow but also that of him and his wife and Cole and Cole’s mother. There are lots of questions to be asked and there are points in the film when it seems that Dr Crow’s and Cole’s relationship is ruining all else however it is actually what can save them all.

Haley Joel Osment is incredible; he plays his part with complete honesty and will undoubtedly grow up to become an even better actor. Bruce Willis also manages to play the emotionally troubled man with constant lost look across his face fairly successfully. Although this film does use some cheap shock tactics they work well with the more underlying frightening message. The quick scares you get help to keep the viewer focused on the more important plot.

The film brings up the theme of communication and relationships. It is heart breaking to watch Cole’s mother (Toni Colette) desperately trying to work out what is wrong with her son and where the scratches on his arm came from. It is only when Cole communicates properly with his mother and with the ghosts that haunt him that he can take control of the situation. It also raises the question of letting go and loss between Dr Crow and is wife (Olivia Williams), which again can only really be sorted through communication. It is this that will be the main message I take from the film.

This frightening film stirs up many emotions and is ultimately very successful. It has the power to make you think, scream and shudder.  Although possibly slow to start the pace soon quickens, ending with one final twist!

Caitlin Devereux