This adaptation of the Ken Kesey book is one of the best adaptations of a novel ever. It also revitalized American cinema, which was making either disaster movies or very experimental films, but forgetting to actually make them entertaining. ‘Cuckoo’s Nest’ is entertaining, while still telling the true story about abuses within the system for caring of the mentally ill, a story which has just as much relevance in New Zealand. The film has changed quite a bit from the book, and also the play that was based on it, but except for one ‘opening up’ sequence involving a fishing expedition, mainly they have just focused the story to be about the four characters of Billy, Chief, Nurse Ratched and McMurphy and how they are all on a collision course. Nicholson is terrific as McMurphy, and it is this role, more than any other that cemented Jack’s persona, but the film made him a bonafide star. He is so big it is easy to forget the other actors, especially the brilliant Louise Fletcher as Nurse Ratched, the bitch from hell who turns in an assured and very subtle performance. She is a great actress, but her generosity here is amazing, as the more Nicholson jumps around, she becomes stiller and more destructive. A great performance and I wish Fletcher would act more. If you haven’t seen it, this is one of the best films made in the 70’s or whenever. Highly recommended.