Ghosts in the movies

The element of deception is particularly accurate in that movie, which is one reason why I do not recommend using Ouija boards for ghost research.

In real life, ghosts rarely appear as they did at death, as in Sixth Sense. In fact, ghosts usually appear as they like to think of themselves, so it's unusual to see an unattractive ghost.

"Cold spots," while fun in movies, are very rare. In over 30 years of ghost hunting, I've encountered two genuine cold spots.

The only time I've ever seen someone's breath in haunted setting is when it's also cold outside. The steamy breath in Sixth Sense was a nice visual effect, but not fact-based.

Likewise, prickling on the back of the neck is not a sure sign of ghosts. There are no warning signs, except the sense that something is about to happen.

While there are many good aspects of The Sixth Sense, particularly the confidence that the boy has in his experiences, it is not a reliable reference for ghost hunting.

More recently, we've seen the remake of The Haunting starring Liam Neeson, with many astonishing visual effects. None were fact-based. I have never heard of anyone mistaking a psychic impression for reality in a haunted setting. Portraits do not transform and start moving. Beds do not become lethal weapons. And it's worth repeating: Ghosts never hurt people, except for the occasional prank by a poltergeist.

In general, ghost movies are entertaining, but far removed from fact. Never use them as the basis of your expectations as a ghost hunter. Actual encounters with ghosts are both more subtle and more profound than anything the movies can produce.

A few related links:

• The Haunting, a good summary & review.

• And, if you don't mind a spoiler, this review at the Terror Trap offers good stills from the movie.

• From Script to Screen: The Sixth Sense includes great trivia.

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic