One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest

Excellent, but I can’t give it a full score, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest didn’t impress me enough for that. Besides, I doubt the film was supposed to make me sympathise with the character of Louise Fletcher, and that Nicholson’s character was supposed to get on my nerves. The nuthouse is a brilliantly depressive setting, but the film never managed to transmit that very well to me as a viewer. It just failed to leave me with that unique 100% impression. 85% (16/09/2008)

As a local film reviewer who has been writing movie reviews for about 7 years, it’s quite a shame not to have written something about this 45-year-old classic. I must start by saying that Jack Nicholson is a true acting genius. He has proven this in many films, and here he confirms that when he fully immerses himself in a role, he can deliver a legendary performance that will be recorded in cinematic history. His character, McMurphy, who treats everything with humor, is full of biting remarks and always has the last word, is one of the most exquisitely written characters, and it is even better translated to the screen. But besides him, the rest of the cast doesn't just play second fiddle; the supporting characters also shine in many ways (for example, DeVito as Martini is a great showcase of his talent). Louise Fletcher, most likely a deserved Oscar winner, was fascinating to watch as her anger and indignation slowly boiled over with the increasing runtime, culminating in an inevitable explosion. And the ending is truly a genius affair; the scene by the bed with the Chief was emotionally overwhelming. It was expected, but Miloš Forman presented it with such mastery that you were left with your mouth agape. Literally. A powerful film that leaves an even stronger impact. For me, it gets 90%. (20/09/2020)

Clearly the best of Miloš Forman, the best of Jack Nicholson, and one of the most works I most admire. If I had to objectively state one film that deserves the highest rating from everyone, I would say it is indeed One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. The actors compete over who does the best acting job – whether it's Randall, the head nurse, or any of the other crazies, they are all incredibly believable. For me, the best was the Indian, also because of the ending, where my jaw dropped and stayed hanging open for quite some time. (31/12/2005)

An excellent film in all respects, which, like wine, matures in your head over the viewings. The combination of Milos Forman being on top form and the frantic acting of Jack Nicholson is simply mesmerising. And I could point out every aspect of the film in that same way. In short, a truly legendary piece of work. (19/04/2018)

There isn’t much to add. The label of one of the best films in history is very well deserved, as well as the five Oscars in the five major categories. It revitalised Miloš Forman's career in an incredible way, helping him rise to the position of a respected and successful great director. But where would this film be with a different cast? The praise here is not only due to Jack Nicholson, whose performance is brilliant and heartfelt, and I rank it among the best I've ever seen, but also to the other actors involved, who are incredible as the madmen and give the film a distinct authenticity and power. The story is precisely written and directed, Louise Fletcher is both charming and devilish at the same time, and the ending is an unforgettable experience that everyone should savour. (08/02/2012)