The author of this review resides in a country where members of the national parliament are elected not as individual candidates but on party tickets. Consequently, once in parliament, they are expected to vote along party lines rather than following their conscience. The parliamentary procedure is adapted to these political realities, with numerous attempts to introduce electronic voting abandoned in favor of a slower and more primitive method. This method, however, provides a spectacle with dozens of hands in the air, allowing parliamentary whips to immediately identify any dissidents or turncoats, while giving party leaders another opportunity to display their power. Every time such a spectacle is televised, it brings to mind a similar scene in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, a 1975 drama directed by Miloš Forman.
Based on Ken Kesey's 1962 counter-culture novel, which was adapted into a popular stage play in the 1960s and 1970s, the plot, written by Bo Goldman and Lawrence Haubern, is set in an Oregon psychiatric hospital in 1963. The story begins with the arrival of Randall Patrick McMurphy (portrayed by Jack Nicholson), a small-time criminal who fakes insanity to avoid hard labor on a prison farm and is sent to the hospital for observation. McMurphy's plan to serve the remainder of his sentence in what he believes to be a more relaxed psychiatric institution soon clashes with the harsh reality - the ward is tightly controlled by the intelligent and soft-spoken supervisory nurse, Mildred Ratched (played by Louise Fletcher). Nurse Ratched uses pills, therapy sessions, and psychological manipulation to keep the patients, many of whom are not severely disturbed or dangerous, compliant and dependent on her.
McMurphy, a free-spirited and extroverted individual, refuses to accept this state of affairs and embarks on his own schemes to challenge Nurse Ratched and assert his influence in the hospital. Along the way, he befriends the other patients, helping them to overcome their frustrations and fears, and encouraging them to stand up to Nurse Ratched. In response, Nurse Ratched escalates her control, leading to a final confrontation with tragic consequences.
Filmed in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest captures the peak of American discontent and disillusionment with authority. The anti-establishment and individualistic message of the film is underscored by the choice of Miloš Forman, a Czech director who experienced life under a totalitarian regime, to helm the project. The psychiatric hospital setting serves as a powerful metaphor for the subtle ways in which individual freedom can be eroded. Despite the seemingly humane facade of the institution, the film exposes the ugly truth of a totalitarian regime disguised as a benevolent establishment. The abuse of power by the staff, exemplified by Nurse Ratched, highlights the psychological conditioning that suppresses the patients' desire for freedom.
While One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest may not boast grand cinematography or a sweeping musical score, its strength lies in the exceptional performances of its cast. Jack Nicholson delivers a career-defining portrayal of R.P. McMurphy, embodying the hopes, dreams, virtues, and flaws of an entire generation. Louise Fletcher's depiction of Nurse Ratched as a cold, calculating antagonist is equally compelling, showcasing the complexities of authority and control. The supporting cast, including lesser-known actors who went on to achieve great success, adds depth and authenticity to the film.
For nearly three decades, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest has endured as a cinematic masterpiece. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its humanity, blending real-life struggles with Hollywood storytelling. The film evokes sympathy for its characters while challenging viewers to question their motives and actions. This complexity allows for multiple interpretations upon each viewing, ensuring its lasting impact as a great work of cinema.
Rating: 9/10 (++++)
Original text posted on Usenet newsgroup rec.arts.films.reviews on December 30th, 2003.
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A masterpiece of world cinematography with a huge Jack Nicholson. And the music is amazing. Touching. The ending is shocking.
Great movie.