Sixth Sense, The MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -2

In this very unique, sometimes puzzling, drama, an outstanding psychologist in Philadelphia, Dr. Malcom Crowe (Bruce Willis), is shot by a disgruntled patient. Several months later, Crowe takes on a patient named Cole Sear (Haley Joel Osment) who is a visibly distraught 9 year old boy who can actually see dead people. At first Cole is reluctant to tell anyone about seeing the dead, including his mother(Toni Collette). But after a few therapy sessions, Cole confides his secret to Malcom, who eventually comes to believe Cole. Malcom suggests that Cole talk with the ghosts and find out what they want. So Cole does just that and even tries to help the ghosts. The story all seems fairly plausible, but near the end of the film, a very surprising fact is subtly revealed about Dr. Crowe. Although slow at times, SIXTH SENSE is a rather intriguing, yet bizarre story. And while not a horror film, it has some suspenseful, scary moments. Its unique story along with Willis star appeal just might draw a fairly large audience.

Although the film is not a conventional horror story, it has an eerie feel throughout. Some of the ghosts are shown with bloody wounds, and some limited violence in the film includes the shooting of the psychologist, a boy being forcefully locked in a closet and a girl being poisoned. Also, one revolting scene shows the sick girl vomiting. Dr. Crowe is genuinely interested in helping Cole and does so to the point of neglecting his wife. And Cole is interested in helping the hurting, sometimes wounded, ghosts he sees and does assist them in various ways. However, in any film portraying ghosts and the spirits of deceased persons, the question is whether communicating with these spirits is portrayed as acceptable or desirable. If so, the film is encouraging a practice condemned in the Bible. And this clearly appears to be the case in this film. This unfortunate message, along with a few obscenities, require a negative rating for THE SIXTH SENSE.

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Buena Vista Pictures Distribution (Hollywood Pictures/Disney), 3900 W. Alameda Blvd., Burbank, CA 91