Inside the Cuckoo's Nest

Rating: 7/10 (13 January 2000)

An insightful, if over-long, look into the world of mental illness, from the p.o.v of a female ward at an upscale mental hospital. Winona delivers a solid performance, but is over shadowed by the flamboyant Angelina Jolie, who dominates the film as a sociopath. Unlike so many films that treat mental illness as "eccentricity"--like the horrible Benny and Joon--this film addresses the seriousness of mental illnesses. It also does not demonize the treatment facility, where compassionate doctors and nurses genuinely care about the progress and wellness of their patients. Nicely shot and directed. Although the film occasionally lapses into formula, it is certainly worth viewing.