Nicholson's greatest role

Rating: 10/10 (27 October 2002)

This film stands above so many films of the 70s. It really scores high for realistic acting. Nicholson's performance is absolute gold. The film also mixes humour and drama extremely well, one minute we're laughing only then to descend into sadness. Powerful. The film also has respect for its characters, although not to the point of becoming sappy and being afraid to use them for comic effect when appropriate. Nicholson isn't the only actor to watch out for - everyone is on form, there's not a weak performance in the whole picture. Each character is crafted and endearing (or realistically menacing in the case of Louise Fletcher). Special note must be made of Sydney Lassick as Cheswick, a nice little character and a fine portrayal. The film is extremely quotable and full of memorable scenes.