OFOTCN symbolism and mise-en-scene

One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest:

throughout the film, symbolism is used to portray significant elements of the films context, or to convey the meanings behind creating the film. the films symbolism is important when understanding metaphorical messages and morals that the creators want to illustrate to the audience.  

-McMurphy represents joy and freedom away from an oppressive institution.  Although he ends up dying as a consequence of his rebellious actions against the repressive system, his soul is never killed. Through the Chiefs escape, his influence lives on and conveys the power of spirit over death and a system which seeks to thwart patients of freedom and represses individuality. A person’s spirit lives on in the actions and mind of the living. His clothing consists of bright colours, which symbolises the life of the outside world. he gradually ends up in the same dull outfits as the rest of the patients, symbolising how he is becoming institutionalised. 

- Throughout the film, faces are filmed behind wire mesh and bars to emphasise the hopelessness of captivity. The glass of the nurse’s station represents the barrier between the individual and power—a barrier the patients are forbidden to cross, even though it appears more transparent and more inclusive than bars.

-The film was made at a real mental institution, which gave the film a natural and realistic feel. this also allowed actors to connect with their characters, as they had a sense of what it was really like to live in a mental hospital.