Michael Douglas Introduces Restored ‘Cuckoo’s Nest’ at Karlovy Vary Festival

Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic – Michael Douglas will present a newly restored version of Miloš Forman’s film One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival next month. The screening will take place on July 4-12 and marks the 50th anniversary of the 1975 classic.

Douglas, a producer of the film, will personally introduce the renovated print at a special gala screening. He will be joined by fellow producer Paul Zaentz, the nephew of the late Saul Zaentz, alongside members of Forman’s family.

This event is also a tribute to the festival’s long-standing history with Cuckoo’s Nest. Forman, who was a supporter of Karlovy Vary, along with Douglas, Zaentz, and actor Danny DeVito, all have received the festival’s Crystal Globe award for Outstanding Artistic Contribution to World Cinema.

“We are truly honored to present One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest on its 50th anniversary,” said Kryštof Mucha, the festival’s executive director. He added that the presence of Douglas, Zaentz, and the Forman family will create an unforgettable moment in the festival’s history.

One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, adapted from Ken Kesey’s novel, revolves around Randle McMurphy, played by Jack Nicholson. McMurphy feigns insanity to escape a prison sentence but soon faces oppressive authority within a mental institution. The film is notable for winning all five major Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor.

Douglas last attended the Karlovy Vary Festival in 1998, when he and Saul Zaentz received the Crystal Globe. Zaentz is recognized for his collaborations with Forman on films like Amadeus and Goya’s Ghosts as well as producing acclaimed projects such as The English Patient and The Talented Mr. Ripley.