Michael Douglas returned to the Czech Republic this week to present a newly restored print of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, where the Oscar-winning actor also voiced concerns about the state of democracy in the United States.
“We’re flirting with autocracy,” Douglas warned, citing rising political polarization and profit-driven politics. The 79-year-old actor urged global vigilance to protect democratic ideals, drawing inspiration from the Czech Republic’s hard-won independence.
Douglas, a longtime supporter of the festival, fondly recalled attending Karlovy Vary with Cuckoo’s Nest producer Saul Zaentz and director Miloš Forman nearly five decades ago. “It’s rare to celebrate a film after 50 years,” Douglas said. “But that picture was—and still is—special.”
Zaentz’s nephew, Paul Zaentz, confirmed plans for a television adaptation of Cuckoo’s Nest from Chief Bromden’s perspective, along with a potential English Patient series.
Reflecting on his cancer battle and career pause, Douglas added, “I’ve worked almost 60 years. Now, I’m happy to be Catherine’s husband and enjoy life.”
Despite his semi-retirement, Douglas hinted he may return for the right project—but only if it’s “truly special.”
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