Review of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) by Mandela W — 19 May 2016

Jack Nicholson is arguably one of the greatest American actors ever. I don't care what top ten list you go Nicholson is up there. Chinatown, Carnal Knowledge, Reds, Batman, As Good as it Gets, A few Good men, Terms of Endearment, About Schmidt, The Departed this man has got so many classic films and so many classic performances. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's nest is another one. Nicholson plays such an open and inspiring individual in the nuttiest place a man could be. One flew over the cuckoo's nest is also in general a classic film with a relatable theme in here and other fantastic performances. This film was truly deserving of the best picture Oscar at the 76 ceremony.

Criminal Randall McMurphy gets sent over to a mental institution after being charged with rape on a 15 year old girl. McMurphy shows no real signs of mental issues but remains at the place. there he comes across several unique mentally challenged individuals. However they are all verbally oppressed by Nurse Ratched a woman who hits upon the shameful things these men have done in their past. Going against her and the system McMurphy goes around showing the men all kinds of fun and that there is a world out there that they need to take advantage of and not let a mean old woman keep you down. As the story goes on the battle between ratched and McMurphy escalates and leads to some terrible results.

Jack is hilarious here. this is probably the most obvious look of an actor having fun with a role I've ever seen. Jack did a wonderful job here as McMurphy. He plays that one universal guy who not only does what he feels but stands up to the bully. one of the most free spirited characters Jack has ever played. louise fletcher plays something of a silent bully if you will. She doesn't outwardly and arrogantly reign supreme over the guys but she uses subtle bits of humiliation and oppression to keep the guys in check. She also gives off great presence, one that would scare even the toughest of men. Fletcher does a terrific job as this and her demeanor is so cold and convincing as well. brad dourif also does a terrific job here. very deserving of the the golden globe he won in 1976.

This film had excellent directing from Milos Forman. As I have alluded to he creates a universal situation in a place where its hard to get your voice heard because of already pre determined judgments. This film also shows true brotherhood and solidarity among such unique men. Fascinating dialogue written in this script. nicely edited. That electroshock therapy looked brutal. that and a few other moments make the film really intense. sad ending too.

Overall this film is phenomenal and worth watching anytime its on yo television.