One flew east, one flew west....

Rating: 10/10 (18 August 2005)

"One flew over the Cuckoo's nest" is, with no doubt, one of the best movies out there. It is the peak of the New Hollywood era, with The Godfather as it's only equal. At least, thats my humble opinion.
The story is about Randall Patrick McMurphy, played by Jack Nicholson in one of the best performances of all time. He is a smalltime criminal who is sent to a mental institution. While there he soon turns the place upside down. You see, McMurphy is a free spirit and soon becomes a bitter rival of Nurse Ratched, played by Louise Fletcher. The big nurse is nothing short of a tyrant corrupted by power. She rules her patients with an iron hand, that is until Randall enters the place.
Both Fletcher and Nicholson got awarded for their roles but in my opinion all the actors are magnificent, even if those two are the ones who shine the brightest.
But this movie is not only great because of it's actors. It is a great story worthy of being told about human rights, the importance of freedom and how power corrupts. But that is only the way I see it, you may have a different view. Any way, there is no reason for you not to see this movie. It is a great cinematic tale. And the fact that it has one of the greatest endings scenes of all time doesn't hurt either.
"But at least I tried, God dammit. At least I did that" - McMurphy