The Big Country
directed by: William Wyler, year: 1958
actors: Gregory Peck, Charlton Heston, Jean Simmons, Carroll Baker
The Big Country Poster
Description:
The Big Country, released in 1958, is an expansive Western directed by William Wyler that centers on Jim McKay, a calm, worldly outsider who arrives in a vast cattle country torn by a feud between rival ranching families. With sweeping vistas, moral complexity, and a subtle romance, the story follows McKay as he navigates loyalties, codes of honor, and the escalating conflict, culminating in a decisive showdown that tests stubborn assumptions and personal courage.
Keywords:
American West, Western, Epic Western, Cattle Feud, Land Dispute, Classic Western Drama
Where was the 1958 movie The Big Country filmed?
"The Big Country," released in 1958, was primarily filmed in various locations in California. Key filming sites included the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the California desert, particularly around the town of Lone Pine and the Alabama Hills. The picturesque landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for the film's expansive western setting, showcasing the rugged beauty of the American West. The film's cinematography, directed by the renowned James Wong Howe, contributed significantly to its visual appeal.
Did Gregory Peck ride the bucking horse in The Big Country?
In "The Big Country," Gregory Peck did not ride the bucking horse himself. The film features a scene with a challenging horse, and a stunt double performed that specific action. Although Peck underwent training for horse riding and performed many of his own riding scenes, the more dangerous bucking horse sequence was handled by a stunt performer to ensure safety and realism. The film showcases Peck's character's journey and moral dilemmas rather than focusing solely on the stunts.
What did Jean Simmons say about The Big Country?
Jean Simmons praised "The Big Country," highlighting its grand scale and the depth of its characters. She appreciated the film's exploration of themes like honor, pride, and the clash of cultures in the American West. Simmons noted that the film showcased her co-stars' performances and the stunning cinematography, which captured the vast landscapes beautifully. Overall, she considered it a significant work in her career and a classic Western that resonated with audiences for its storytelling and character development.
Did Gregory Peck and Charlton Heston get along?
Gregory Peck and Charlton Heston had a professional relationship while working on "The Big Country" (1958). Despite their differing personalities—Peck being more reserved and Heston more outspoken—they respected each other as actors. However, it has been reported that their relationship was somewhat strained due to Heston's strong opinions and Peck's more laid-back demeanor. Overall, they maintained a level of professionalism on set, but their interactions were not particularly close.
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