How does it feel to be in a mental institution.

Rating: 8/10 (20 July 2007)

The making of this film is a miracle of sorts.It all started when influenced by Czech new wave Kirk Douglas decided to visit Prague.He approached Milos Forman to direct this film.It took Milos Forman some 6 years before he could move out of Czechoslovakia (as it was known that time) Rest all is history.This film wins all the viewer's sympathy as it has shown a very mature, challenging subject:condition of inmates at a mental institution.The theme of human freedom is deftly handled.Apart from the usual sad elements there are certain comic elements too.This is one of the most restrained performances by Jack Nicholson.Louise Fletcher is great too even though she has played the role of a cruel,strict and authoritarian person.As far as the comparison with Ken Kesey's novel is concerned, it is no big deal to compare.When one can enjoy this film, who would bother to read the original novel.It is best to say : watch the film and leave the novel for the book lovers to follow.