Review of The Big Country (1958) by Peter A — 08 Jan 2009
It is incredibly flawed, particularly in the technical and stylistic aspects which, unfortunately, fall at Wyler's feet. Unfortunate because he's made many fine films and this could have been the finest.
It plays out as a handbook on how the behave like a man should. Integrity and intelligence is certainly part of the equation but it is the consistency with which Peck's McKay maintains these characteristics that gives the film its force.
The script is remarkably well written and perfectly cast and would be the makings of a five star review but Wyler had to get funny with his direction. Odd cuts and simply poor use of music routinely takes the audience out of the experience.
It doesn't completely ruin the picture, and some very good things come out of the apparent experimentation going on, specifically some impressive long shots and even longer silences placed just right between spoken lines.
This review of The Big Country (1958) was written by Peter A on 08 Jan 2009.
The Big Country has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
