Common Sense Media Review
Thoughtful thriller has bloody images, jump scares.
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The Sixth Sense
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 53 parent reviews
Parents say this film stands out as a classic horror title that balances suspense and emotional depth, featuring a remarkable twist ending that significantly contributes to its acclaim; however, the film contains disturbing imagery and may not be suitable for younger viewers, often suggesting a minimum viewing age of 13 or older. Many appreciate the performances, particularly from Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment, marking it as a must-watch for those ready for an engaging psychological thriller that delves into themes of grief and communication with the deceased.
- classic horror
- emotional depth
- suitable for teens
- significant twist
- strong performances
- disturbing imagery
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 282 kid reviews
Kids say this movie blends elements of psychological thriller and mild horror, with many considering it a suitable introduction to the genre for kids aged 10 and above. While it contains some disturbing imagery and intense themes, most reviewers agree that it isn’t particularly scary compared to modern horror films and features an unforgettable twist that appeals to a wide audience.
- introduction to horror
- mild horror elements
- suitable for older kids
- disturbing imagery
- memorable twist
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In THE SIXTH SENSE, Dr. Malcolm Crowe (Bruce Willis) is a gifted psychologist who specializes in children. The night he receives an award for his work, a former patient breaks into his house and shoots Dr. Crowe and then himself. Months later, Dr. Crowe is still very shaken from the experience and struggling to communicate with his wife. He's treating just one patient, a boy named Cole Sear (Haley Joel Osment), who reminds him of the patient he believes he failed. Dr. Crowe gradually wins Cole's trust, and Cole confides that he's haunted by grisly, ghostly images that nobody else can see. At first, Malcolm thinks this is a symptom of psychological disturbance, but he gradually starts to believe that they're real and works to help Cole deal with his terrifying gift.
Is It Any Good?
This is one of the rarest of movie treats, a smart thriller that's genuinely haunting. You're lucky if you see a film that you're still thinking about hours later, and viewers are still thinking and talking about The Sixth Sense decades on. There's a reason this movie put director M. Night Shyamalan on the map: Its ultimate conclusion is one of the most famous twists in movie history but, in retrospect, inevitable. Kids may have heard of this movie and want to watch, but The Sixth Sense has plenty of horror elements that will likely scare even teens. Parents should be cautious and definitely prepared to talk about the movie's more upsetting elements.
But for those who can handle the scarier aspects, this is a real classic that proves just as moving as it is disturbing. Osment is sensational, one of the finest performances ever given by a child. Willis complements him perfectly, and the interaction between the two of them is deeply touching. In addition, this movie has thoughtful views on life and death that some viewers may find comforting and others may find sad or upsetting.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about The Sixth Sense as a ghost story. What do you think is the appeal of ghost stories, and what makes this one particularly gripping? How does the director scare you without going for over-the-top violence?
Families could use the story to lead into a discussion on loss. Have you lost someone important to you? How does the thought of losing someone make you feel? Where do you believe people go when they die?
Characters show courage, communication, and empathy. How do these help in the film? Why are they important character strengths in the real world, too?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 18, 1999
- On DVD or streaming : March 28, 2000
- Cast : Bruce Willis , Haley Joel Osment , Toni Collette
- Director : M. Night Shyamalan
- Inclusion Information : Indian/South Asian Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Indian/South Asian Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Thriller
- Topics : Fantasy ( Ghosts )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Empathy
- Run time : 106 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language, scariness, and some grossness
- Awards : Academy Award - Best Picture Nominee , Academy Award - Other Category Nominee , BAFTA - BAFTA Nominee , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee
- Last updated : February 3, 2026
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