Ratched

Nurse Mildred's sinister transformation in mental institution

Watch on Netflix
About Ratched

Released: 2020

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1 Season

Cast
Sarah Paulson, Finn Wittrock, Judy Davis, Sharon Stone, Cynthia Nixon, Jon Jon Briones, Charlie Carver

About Ratched

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About

Ratched is a television show based on the 1962 novel "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" by Ken Kesey. The series serves as a prequel to the events of the novel and focuses on the character of Nurse Mildred Ratched. It revolves around her journey and transformation from a mild-mannered nurse into the cold and calculating villainess seen in the novel.

The show is set in the mid-20th century and explores the dark and twisted world of mental health institutions. It delves into the psychological complexities of the patients and the staff, highlighting the power dynamics and corruption present within the hospital walls.

The plot follows Nurse Ratched as she arrives at Lucia State Hospital, seeking employment. She quickly establishes herself as a formidable presence, manipulating the system and those around her to assert control. As the series progresses, secrets from her past are revealed, shedding light on the dark path that leads her to become the iconic character known from the novel.

Making / Production

Ratched is created by Evan Romansky and developed by Ryan Murphy, known for his work on popular TV shows like "American Horror Story" and "Glee." The series is a Netflix original and premiered on September 18, 2020.

The production of Ratched involved meticulous attention to detail in recreating the mid-century setting, from the costume design to the set decorations. The show also utilized various visual motifs and cinematography techniques to enhance the psychological tension and dark atmosphere.

Actors

  • Sarah Paulson as Nurse Mildred Ratched - Paulson delivers a gripping performance as the titular character, capturing the complexities and nuances of Nurse Ratched's character.
  • Cynthia Nixon as Gwendolyn Briggs - Nixon portrays a political aide who forms a connection with Nurse Ratched.
  • Judy Davis as Nurse Betsy Bucket - Davis plays a fellow nurse who becomes entangled in Nurse Ratched's web of manipulation.
  • Finn Wittrock as Edmund Tolleson - Wittrock portrays a convicted murderer and patient at Lucia State Hospital, whose connection with Nurse Ratched drives the plot forward.
  • Sharon Stone as Lenore Osgood - Stone guest stars as a wealthy socialite with a complicated history and connection to Nurse Ratched.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • Ratched serves as a prequel to the events of the novel "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," offering insight into the origins of the infamous Nurse Ratched.
  • The show features several Easter eggs and references to the original novel and its subsequent film adaptation, paying homage to the iconic story.
  • Ratched received mixed reviews from critics, with praise directed towards the performances and production design.
  • The series explores themes of power, control, and the manipulation of vulnerable individuals within a corrupt system.

Awards

Ratched has not received any major awards as of yet.

Quotes

  • "The monster you have created has returned to kill you." - Nurse Ratched
  • "Some people simply refuse to follow the rules." - Nurse Ratched
  • "This is not punishment, this is treatment." - Nurse Ratched

Music / Soundtrack

  • The soundtrack of Ratched features a mix of period-inspired instrumental compositions and songs from the mid-20th century.
  • Songs performed by artists such as Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, and Etta James are a part of the series' music.
  • The score, composed by Mac Quayle, effectively enhances the show's suspense and emotional moments.