Timeless

Rating: 10/10 (3 April 2013)

A stunning story which hits a wide range of emotions. The film really captures the different feelings we would all get if we had to visit one of those places. Very disturbing at times but also done very tastefully.
From the moment McMurphy (Nicholson) enters the ward it is clear the type of influence he is going to have on his fellow 'nuts'. At first he seems to mock them but he quickly learns to love them and brings happiness and hope to their lives.
The entire cast give perfect performances. It's great to see actors like De Vito and Lloyd performing so brilliantly so early on in their careers. They've all really thought about their characters various traits and acted them out consistently. Brad Dourif (nominated for an Oscar) steals the show towards the end although Nicholson is more than worthy of the Oscar. I've always said The Shining was his best performance but this is easily on par, probably even better. His relationship with 'the chief' becomes a heartwarming part of the story.
Nurse Ratched's (Fletcher) authoritative presence always makes you root for the 'nuts'. The way she treats the patients doesn't always seem fair and he role as the 'baddie' becomes clear when she asks to keep McMurphy on the ward.
This film swept the Oscars and rightly so. A stone cold classic.