Michael Douglas Talks Democracy, Movies, and Retirement

Michael Douglas was at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival to show a restored version of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. " He took the chance to share his worries about democracy in the U. S. He thinks the country is at risk of becoming an autocracy. He believes democracy is fragile and needs constant protection. He also thinks politics has become too focused on making money. Douglas didn't want to talk too much about politics. He said the news speaks for itself. He is worried and thinks everyone should be too. The festival honored the classic film and its connection to the town. The director, Miloš Forman, was a big supporter of the festival. Douglas and others involved in the film received awards for their contributions to cinema. Douglas remembered the early days of the festival. He said it was special to honor a movie from 50 years ago. He also looked back at the great films from 1976. He wondered if there have been any movies as good in the last 20 years. Producer Saul Zaentz agreed and said he wouldn't remake the film. Instead, he's working on a TV series based on the book, told from a different character's perspective. Zaentz is also working on other projects. One is about border agents helping a dying immigrant. He hopes to film it soon. He's also working on a TV adaptation of "The English Patient, " but says it's too expensive right now. Douglas also talked about his health. He had stage 4 throat cancer but is doing better now. He hasn't acted since 2022 and doesn't plan to. He's been acting for almost 60 years and wants to take a break. He's not completely retired, though. If something special comes up, he might act again. For now, he's happy to support his wife's career.