Movie Review: The Big Country
Quick Plot Summary: An extremely well-done cinematic western that could be called an "anti-western". Good portrayal of what does/does not make a "real man".
Rating: Great
Suggested Ages: 10+
This "western" movie from the late 1950's is stellar (and looks great in HD too!). Unlike most westerns, which feature a rough-and-tough cowboy type that's acting all macho and going around proving how awesome he is, the main character in this movie plays against that type. Talk about refreshing! The central character of this film knows he can be tough but doesn't feel he needs to prove it to others. There's great messages in this film for tween/teen boys on what does and does not make a "real man" with very vivid examples given of both. And given the lack of a whole lot of films with good, positive male role models, that alone makes this movie worthwhile.
This is a slow-moving and long film that slowly builds to its exciting conclusion. Being a western, there is some violence of course (people do get shot), but unlike most westerns, it's never glorified. In fact, the messaging this movie sends is that one should settle things peacefully and not let anger rule the day. There's plenty of good messages in this movie and it is entertaining, but in a slow-moving kind of way so this is one you just kind of need to snuggle in for and chill and take in. If you haven't seen this film, what in the world are you waiting for?
Reviewed by Christopher Long,
BodEquip Ministries