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2. One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest (1975)

One of only three films to win all five major Academy Awards, it's hard to imagine that Nicholson already had several awards and nominations under his belt before One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest. He plays Randle Patrick McMurphy, a multi-offender who is transferred to a mental institution as part of a ploy to avoid hard labor. Unluckily for him, he must deal with Nurse Ratched (Louise Fletcher), the nurse who oversees the mental ward. From the beginning it is a pure test of wills between the two. As his time with the inmates increases, he comes to realize they are actually quite normal individuals who suffer through Nurse Ratched's sessions and treatments.

The tension builds between McMurphy and Ratched as he interacts with the patients. At one point he is gambling with them, and at another he's trying to listen to a World Series game. He goes so far as to call for a vote among the developmentally challenged, arguing for rule changes inside of the ward, which does not go over very well with Ratched. What makes Nicholson's performance so memorable is his ability to deliver his character's outbursts in such a convincing way. When he learns that his previous actions may be lengthening his stay, it is hard not to feel for him. When he tries to lift the console that he wants to use to escape, the bitter look on his face was really well done. When he takes the other inmates out on an unscheduled fishing trip, McMurphy earns the full wrath of Ratched.

He is forced to undergo a rather brutal therapy, but at the same time develops a touching relationship with another inmate called Chief. McMurphy still continues with his insubordination, calls some girl friends, and tells them to bring alcohol to the institution. This action has some awful consequences, which lead up to the very well done ending. Nicholson should get all of the credit in the world for delivering a masterful performance, but it's important to note that Louise Fletcher as Ratched has earned a very high spot on the "Best Villains of All Time" list.

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