Erik at the Movies: One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest
Mental health issues are not something new but the ways in which we approach treatment continues to evolve as evidenced through this 1970’s classic.
February 8, 2023
One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
A brutal portrayal of the conditions of mental asylums in the middle of the 20th century, One Flew Over is both able to leave you laughing hysterically one moment and break your heart in the next.
The story is about a man (played by Jack Nicholson) who in order to avoid a long prison sentence decides to become committed to an asylum, while there he bonds with the other residents and constantly fights with Nurse Ratched (played by Louise Fletcher).
The entire ensemble cast is phenomenal, with two supporting roles being played by Danny DeVito and Christopher Lloyd.
It is also able to depict several difficult topics throughout its runtime, such as lobotomization and self harm. In short, it is a classic piece of cinema that you all should check out.
9/10
