Marvelous!

Rating: 9/10 (22 August 2010)

An adaptation of the 1962 novel of the same name by Ken Kesey, 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' is a marvelous film, that makes you laugh & cry at the same time. Often regarded to be one of the greatest films of all-time, I see no reason on why we should deny it's accomplishments.
Jack Nicholson stars as McMurphy, a recidivist criminal serving a short sentence on a prison farm for statutory rape, is transferred to a mental institution in 1963 for evaluation. He is anti-authoritarian with a history of violence, but he exhibits no signs of mental illness. This is the basic premise of this adaptation.
Some films have a certain joy & mood to them, 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' is amongst those rare gems. Sure, it doesn't leave you happy, considering it's highly depressing culmination. But again, that's the beauty of the film, it makes you laugh & cry. It's a film that really leaves no stone-unturned to become flawless!
Milo Forman's direction is magnificent. He believes in his characters. He believes in sanity. He's such a mature storyteller! Laurence Hauben & Bo Goldman's adapted screenplay is pure delicious. Haskell Wexler's Cinematography carries a consistent look throughout. Music by Jack Nitzsche is good.
In the acting department, Jack Nicholson proves yet again, that he is a true giant, when it comes to acting. He is fantastic. Louise Fletcher is outstanding! She plays her part with the perfect dignity and expression. Danny DeVito delivers his careers finest performance in here. The now-veteran is simply amazing as a delusional. Brad Dourif is in top-form. William Redfield is wonderful. Will Sampson as Chief, is excellent. Others do a fine job.
On the whole, watching this film is a must for each and every cinema fan! Two Big Thumbs Up!