Haley Joel Osment, best known for his role in 'The Sixth Sense', joins acclaimed director M. Night Shyamalan for a thought-provoking discussion. They reflect on the film's massive cultural impact and its influence on Shyamalan's career, from initial triumphs to later challenges. The duo dives into the art of subtle filmmaking, the emotional depth required in performances, and the struggles actors face as they transition from childhood stardom. They also contemplate the enduring legacy of a famous quote and its significance in pop culture.
M. Night Shyamalan's career trajectory exemplifies the volatility of Hollywood fame, shifting from acclaimed success to critical backlash.
Haley Joel Osment highlights the importance of authentic performance and emotional depth in 'The Sixth Sense' as foundational to its impact.
Deep dives
M. Night Shyamalan's Rise and Fall
M. Night Shyamalan experienced a meteoric rise in Hollywood following the success of The Sixth Sense, which became the second highest-grossing film of 1999 and earned six Oscar nominations. His rapid ascent caught the industry's attention, earning him comparisons to filmmakers like Steven Spielberg. However, his subsequent projects, starting with The Village, faced mixed reviews and backlash, signaling a decline in his reputation. By the time he released After Earth in 2013, he was widely criticized, leading many to perceive him as a once-promising director whose career had faltered.
Shyamalan's Comeback Journey
In response to his struggles, Shyamalan embarked on a personal and professional transformation, as highlighted in a candid commencement speech. He acknowledged feelings of self-doubt and the perception of being a 'cautionary tale' in the industry. To regain his footing, he adopted a stripped-down approach to filmmaking, beginning with The Visit, which he partially financed himself. This new direction has led to a resurgence in his career, allowing him to embrace a more intimate storytelling style that resonates with audiences.
Haley Joel Osment Reflects on The Sixth Sense
Haley Joel Osment, who played the young boy in The Sixth Sense, shares insights from his experience on set, emphasizing the film's focus on genuine behavior rather than cheap scares. He recalls extensive rehearsals and discussions with Shyamalan and Bruce Willis that contributed to the film's atmosphere and emotional depth. Osment recognizes the challenges of being typecast as a child star but finds new opportunities in his older age, embracing diverse roles. He also reflects on the lasting impact of the film, noting how his iconic line continues to resonate with audiences today.
Twenty-five years ago this month, one film, and one filmmaker, became synonymous with the big plot twist.
So what was it about The Sixth Sense that made it such a cultural phenomenon at the time of its release? And how did that shape the rest of controversial director M. Night M. Night Shyamalan career?
Haley Joel Osment joins Scott Detrow in conversation to reflect on the impact it had on his work, and how he used that success to propel his career forward.
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