One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest

Excellent, but I can’t give it a full score, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest didn’t impress me enough for that. Besides, I doubt the film was supposed to make me sympathise with the character of Louise Fletcher, and that Nicholson’s character was supposed to get on my nerves. The nuthouse is a brilliantly depressive setting, but the film never managed to transmit that very well to me as a viewer. It just failed to leave me with that unique 100% impression. 85% (09/16/2008)

Clearly the best of Miloš Forman, the best of Jack Nicholson, and one of the most works I most admire. If I had to objectively state one film that deserves the highest rating from everyone, I would say it is indeed One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. The actors compete over who does the best acting job – whether it's Randall, the head nurse, or any of the other crazies, they are all incredibly believable. For me, the best was the Indian, also because of the ending, where my jaw dropped and stayed hanging open for quite some time. (12/31/2005)

What more can I say about this cinematic gem when practically everything has been said. This film stands especially on the performances of the many actors involved: the bohemian Jack Nicholson, the devilish Louise Fletcher, the good-natured Will Sampson, the dim-witted Brad Dourif, all of whom give wonderful performances. It is because of them, and the oppressive mental hospital setting that almost always works, that this film the most celebrated Czech director is a cinematic gem of the highest quality. In short, a beautiful made film for which we can be truly grateful to Miloš Forman. (09/17/2011)

I've had this legendary film queued up for a long time, and it took me a while to get to it. I finally saw it, and I must say, it's a truly intense spectacle. Some of the actors play their madmen absolutely brilliantly. Danny DeVito is absolutely captivating, but it's clear that the main attention is focused on Nicholson and Fletcher. I like that the conflict isn't usually direct but more like a cold war. It builds up beautifully. Each scene has its strength, even if its climax may come gradually. When you want to create hell, you don't need demons. (03/13/2014)

Miracles happen sometimes. This low-budget film nobody expected anything from and by a director with almost no reputation, went on to become a worldwide hit, winner of five major Oscars and a pearl of world cinema. Louise Fletcher, as Nurse Mildred, is one of the most repulsive creatures and the final scene one of the most emotional and moving in the history of cinema. (04/13/2003)