Sixth Man, The MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +3 Content: -1 1/2

The Tyler brothers learned to love the game of basketball when their dad was their coach. After his untimely death, the boys continued playing, and at the University of Washington, Antoine (Kadeem Hardison) and Kenny (Marlon Wayans) are basketball stars. However, Antoine collapses during a spectacular play and dies. As the team begins to sink, it becomes very clear how much Kenny depended on his brother. That's when Antoine's ghost begins appearing to his younger brother, often at the most inopportune times. His teammates wonder about Kenny, who is seen talking to himself and sparring into thin air. But Kenny also starts performing impossible feats on the court as Antoine lifts him to unbelievable heights and interferes with the opponents' moves. The ghost becomes so aggressive that Kenny must confide in the other players what is happening. From then on Antoine manipulates the whole team, catapulting them to the NCAA championship game. Heart-stopping action on the courts along with hilarious situations between the brothers earn The Sixth Man high entertainment marks.

Although this comedy-fantasy has some positive messages, the ghost figure dominates the film. It's not portrayed as a figment of Kenny's imagination but as a real spirit. This ghost is not conjured up by anyone, but communicating with dead spirits is still anti-Biblical. The team's language doesn't match their otherwise wholesome image. Eight s-words, many crudities and one regular profanity clutter the script. Violence on the court becomes rather mean-spirited as the ghost causes opponents to take painful hits and falls. In a confrontation with the team, Antoine becomes very angry and almost destroys their hotel room. A comical but crude scene takes place in the men's restroom when Kenny is talking to the ghost while standing at the urinal. Early scenes of the young boys with their parents reveal an intelligent, loving family. Another strong role model is the college coach, played by David Paymer. He inspires the team to do their best by playing fairly and with good sportsmanship. The Sixth Man fouls out with its crude language and ghost theme.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Buena Vista Distribution (Touchstone Pictures), 500 S. Buena Vista St., Burbank, CA 91521