In a bizarre turn of events, the case eventually leads to Malcolm discovering a shocking truth about himself.
What happens with Malcolm?
Malcolm is a respected child psychologist who is shot by an angry former patient, Vincent Grey. A couple of months later, he is hired by Lynn Sear to counsel her son, Cole.
The project is special to Malcolm because it is a chance to finally make up for the failed treatment of Vincent.
How does Cole’s treatment begin?
Cole is a highly reserved kid who is haunted by bad social interactions and real ghosts. Malcolm knows what he is up against. So, he tries to win Cole’s trust with a game where he tries to read his mind. Initially reluctant, Cole begins developing trust for Malcolm. However, his troubles don’t seem to stop. On his birthday, a couple of bullies lock him in a cupboard where he faints due to suffocation.
Cole shares with Malcolm his secret about seeing dead people and ghosts. Cole further adds that the ghosts only see what they want to see, and are oblivious to their state. Malcolm has a hard time believing him. He feels Cole is experiencing delusions until he himself hears a ghost in a videotape. Once convinced that Cole was right about ghosts, Malcolm completely changes his treatment approach. ..
He suggests that Cole try to communicate with the ghosts and help them if possible. Though fearfully, Cole follows Malcolm’s strange advice.
How does Cole recover?
Cole works to find out about a ghost girl he witnessed vomiting in his room. Joined by Malcolm, he goes to her house and sneaks into her room. The dead girl gives him a videotape containing the secret of her murder. Cole hands the videotape to her father revealing it was her mother who poisoned her to death. ..
Cole begins to learn how to live with his newfound power. In addition to improved behavior, his academic performance improves with the help of a deceased coach. ..
After Cole tells his mother about his ability, she is convinced and supportive.
Malcolm’s Fate
Malcolm is home from his work trip and finds his wife speaking in her sleep about him having left her. When his ring falls from her hand, he notices he has not been wearing his ring. Instantly, Cole’s words about the dead ring in his head, and he realizes he died the same day his patient shot him. And all along, only Cole could see him.
Malcolm’s face expresses no grief as he says his final goodbye to his wife. He is content with the way things have ended and is grateful for her presence in his life.
