I never read the book, but saw the mini-series with Steven Weber and I thought it was very well done. I enjoyed it.
I also agree, Nicholson's performance can't be topped. Yet, I am probably outnumbered when I say tho that was an excellent performance, to me Nicholson is always over the top. LOL
TIS
"Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind. War will exist until that distant day when the conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation and prestige that the warrior does today." JFK