One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest

As a local film reviewer who has been writing movie reviews for about 7 years, it’s quite a shame not to have written something about this 45-year-old classic. I must start by saying that Jack Nicholson is a true acting genius. He has proven this in many films, and here he confirms that when he fully immerses himself in a role, he can deliver a legendary performance that will be recorded in cinematic history. His character, McMurphy, who treats everything with humor, is full of biting remarks and always has the last word, is one of the most exquisitely written characters, and it is even better translated to the screen. But besides him, the rest of the cast doesn't just play second fiddle; the supporting characters also shine in many ways (for example, DeVito as Martini is a great showcase of his talent). Louise Fletcher, most likely a deserved Oscar winner, was fascinating to watch as her anger and indignation slowly boiled over with the increasing runtime, culminating in an inevitable explosion. And the ending is truly a genius affair; the scene by the bed with the Chief was emotionally overwhelming. It was expected, but Miloš Forman presented it with such mastery that you were left with your mouth agape. Literally. A powerful film that leaves an even stronger impact. For me, it gets 90%. (09/20/2020)

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)

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)

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)

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)