Movie of the Year: 1999

The Sixth Sense (feat. Jay Sherer!)

Chilling Classics and Narrative Genius in The Sixth Sense

In this spine-tingling episode of Movie of the Year, the Taste Buds turn their third eyes toward M. Night Shyamalan’s unforgettable thriller, The Sixth Sense. Released in 1999, this film didn't just scare audiences—it redefined what moviegoers expected from psychological thrillers and suspenseful ghost stories. The Taste Buds examine what made The Sixth Sense an instant classic and how it continues to haunt and inspire audiences to this day.

The Sixth Sense's Twist Ending: Spoiler Alert (Sort Of)

You know the twist—but how did we get there? The Taste Buds break down the legendary ending of The Sixth Sense, discussing how Shyamalan masterfully planted clues throughout the film. This segment explores how the reveal reshaped the entire narrative, altered how we engage with movies, and elevated twist endings to a pop culture staple. It’s one of the most talked-about twist endings in cinematic history, and for good reason.

Death and Horror in The Sixth Sense: What Scares Us Most

At its core, The Sixth Sense is a meditation on death, grief, and unresolved trauma. The Taste Buds explore how the film uses horror to probe deeper emotional truths, crafting scares not from jump cuts alone, but from the deeply human fear of being unseen and unheard. This is horror with heart—and it hits hard, echoing themes found in other 1999 horror films like The Blair Witch Project.

The Sixth Sense Performances: Toni Collette Deserved an Oscar

Beyond its eerie mood and smart script, The Sixth Sense shines thanks to stunning performances. Haley Joel Osment delivers one of the most iconic child performances in movie history, and Bruce Willis brings a quiet depth to a role that surprises in more ways than one. The Taste Buds also spotlight Toni Collette’s heartbreaking turn as a mother grappling with the unknown. The performances anchor the film’s emotional weight and elevate the ghost story to something transcendent.

Guest Panelist Jay Sherer: Talking Story with The Story Geeks

This week’s episode features special guest Jay Sherer, host of The Story Geeks Podcast. Jay brings his storytelling expertise and love for genre film to help unpack why The Sixth Sense is more than just a horror movie—it's a masterclass in character, pacing, and emotional resonance. Jay also draws fascinating comparisons to other narrative-driven films, such as Unbreakable and Signs.

Bonus Segment: Enter Fight Club

In a special bonus segment, the Taste Buds take on another 1999 mind-bender: Fight Club. What connects Fight Club and The Sixth Sense beyond their jaw-dropping endings? The Taste Buds compare their thematic undercurrents, narrative structures, and cultural impacts, offering fresh perspectives on how these two films reflect the anxieties of the late 1990s. It’s a one-two punch of psychological cinema that still packs a wallop.

FAQ About The Sixth Sense Podcast Episode

Who is Jay Sherer?

Jay Sherer is the host of The Story Geeks Podcast, a show that dives deep into the themes and structure of genre storytelling.

Why is The Sixth Sense still relevant today?

Its emotional core, brilliant performances, and unforgettable twist make it a timeless classic that continues to inspire filmmakers.

Final Thoughts: We See Greatness in The Sixth Sense

Whether you're revisiting The Sixth Sense for the first time in years or analyzing its ghostly layers for the hundredth time, this episode of Movie of the Year delivers sharp analysis, lively discussion, and plenty of surprises. From death and horror to unforgettable performances and twist endings, the Taste Buds see what others might miss.

🎧 Listen now, subscribe to Movie of the Year, and share this haunting episode with fellow movie lovers.

Check out the rest of the 1999 season, which includes movies like 

Run Lola Run!

South Park!

The Iron Giant!