MGM/FOX has released that great western, "THE BIG COUNTRY" on blu-ray! Gregory Peck stars as James McKay, a sea captain, seeking to start his future with a beautiful bride-to-be, Pat(Carroll Baker), after leaving the east coast for the wild west. Immediately upon arriving at the home of his fiance's father, trouble ensues. Charlton Heston as "Steve," a foreman for the father is determined to make things tough for McKay, and that's on top of the other conflicts becoming revealed as the epic unfolds.  Pat's family, the "Terrills," and another family, the "Hannasseys" have an ongoing conflict over the property and water rights for their cattle empire. Jean Simmons plays the likeable owner of the only area separating the feuding families.

While some of the scenes within the nearly 3-hour film, feel a little forced, most of them are engrossing and "THE BIG COUNTRY" is so well-directed, shot, and acted, the sheer spectacle overcomes any flaws quite easily. Even with its running length, "THE BIG COUNTRY" is the kind of film that makes for easy revisiting. Performances from everyone, including Chuck Connors and Burl Ives are quite memorable. Westerns, whether in the '50s and more recently, have been a mixed bag, some good, some great, but most only average. "THE BIG COUNTRY" is that rare exception! A REAL GEM! A "BIG FILM! A noteworthy addition to any film lover's collection!

MGM/FOX has provided a 2.35:1 aspect ratio for this AVC MPEG-4 1080p release. Colors are not just vibrant but flawless in their rendition! Detail is also impressive, especially for such an older release that doesn't appear to have been restored. Contrast varies a bit, as some of the darker scenes lack the depth found in most of the film.

MGM/FOX has provided a DTS-HD MA 2.0 mix. While the imagery offers an epic wide-screen look, the soundmix is quite narrow in scope. Overall fidelity is fine, however the lack of a remixed surround track, diminishes the "epic" touch this otherwise fine release deserves.

A theatrical trailer, tv spot and black&white featurette(all standard resolution) are included.