Retired sea captain Jim McKay is a quiet and introspective man who arrives in the West to settle down with his fiancée Pat Terrill, the daughter of a wealthy ranch owner. However, he is soon caught up in a bitter conflict between two powerful families—the Terrills and the Hannasseys—over control of a stretch of land known as the Big Muddy.
Despite the disdain of the ranch foreman Steve Leech, who is more comfortable with the rough-and-tumble lifestyle of the West, Jim tries to maintain his own values of kindness, fairness, and pacifism. He becomes close to Julie Maragon, a spirited and independent woman who owns the land at the heart of the conflict, and forms a bond with her cowhand Ramon, a Mexican immigrant.
As the feud escalates into violence, Jim finds himself forced to choose sides and stand up for his principles. He faces off against both the Terrills and the Hannasseys, risking his life to bring peace to a lawless land. Along the way, he discovers the truth about himself and his place in the world, as well as the true character of those around him.
The Big Country was directed by William Wyler and starred Gregory Peck, Jean Simmons, Carroll Baker, Charlton Heston, Burl Ives, and Chuck Connors. It was praised for its beautiful cinematography, sweeping score, and powerful performances. It remains a classic of the Western genre, exploring themes of honor, courage, and the struggle for justice in a harsh and unforgiving landscape.