One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest is a gripping drama that, while not strictly a horror film, delves deep into the psychological horrors of institutionalization and the human spirit's battle against oppression.
Based on Ken Kesey's novel of the same name, the film offers a scathing critique of the mental health system of its time and the societal norms that label non-conformity as insanity.
Synopsis
Randle Patrick McMurphy, a rebellious convict, feigns insanity to escape hard labor in prison. He is sent to a mental institution, where he encounters a group of patients under the strict rule of Nurse Ratched.
As McMurphy challenges the system and inspires the patients to rebel, the film unravels the thin line between sanity and madness.
Release Information
- Release Date: November 19, 1975
- Duration: 133 minutes
- Rating: R
- Country of Origin: United States
Cast & Crew
- Main Cast:
- Jack Nicholson as Randle Patrick McMurphy
- Louise Fletcher as Nurse Ratched
- Will Sampson as Chief Bromden
- Brad Dourif as Billy Bibbit
- Director: Miloš Forman
- Writers: Lawrence Hauben and Bo Goldman (screenplay), based on the novel by Ken Kesey
Where to Stream
United States (US)
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
Streaming: Dive into the movie on Showtime Apple TV Channel, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, or DIRECTV.
Buy/Rent: The US offers a vast array of platforms including Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, Redbox, DIRECTV, and AMC on Demand.
Australia (AU)
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
Streaming: Aussies can enjoy the movie on Netflix, BINGE, or the ad-supported Netflix basic with Ads.
Buy/Rent: For those looking to own or rent, options include Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Apple TV.
United Kingdom (GB)
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
Buy/Rent: While streaming might not be an option in the UK, you can still purchase or rent the movie on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Rakuten TV.
Germany (DE)
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
Buy/Rent: Germans can buy or rent the movie on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Rakuten TV, MagentaTV, and Microsoft Store.
Brazil (BR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
Buy/Rent: Brazilians have the choice of Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, and Claro video for purchasing or renting the movie.
Spain (ES)
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
Buy/Rent: In Spain, the movie is available for purchase or rent on Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, Amazon Video, and Chili.
France (FR)
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
Buy/Rent: The French have a rich selection of platforms including Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, FILMO, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Universcine, and Amazon Video.
Canada (CA)
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
Streaming: Canadians can stream the movie on the Starz Amazon Channel.
Buy/Rent: For those in Canada, the movie is available on platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, and Amazon Video.
Production Details
- Production Company: Fantasy Films
- Distributor: United Artists
- Budget: $4.4 million
- Box Office Collection: $108.1 million
Reception
One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest was met with widespread acclaim upon its release and has since been regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
- Critical Reception: Critics lauded the film for its powerful performances, especially that of Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher. The narrative's exploration of mental institutions and the human spirit's resilience was praised for its depth and authenticity. The film's direction, screenplay, and cinematography were also subjects of commendation.
- Audience Reception: The movie resonated with audiences worldwide, not just for its compelling story but also for its underlying themes of rebellion, freedom, and the human spirit's indomitable will. Many viewers found themselves rooting for McMurphy and the other patients, making the film's climax all the more heart-wrenching.
- Awards & Nominations: The film was a significant contender during the awards season, securing numerous accolades. It became only the second film in history to win the "Big Five" Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director (Miloš Forman), Best Actor (Jack Nicholson), Best Actress (Louise Fletcher), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Lawrence Hauben and Bo Goldman). Additionally, it received nominations in various other categories and won several international film awards.