The Big Country
Academy Color Restorations

Director William Wyler's spectacular epic western is ripe for rediscovery in this beautiful color restoration. Against a war between rival cattle clans, a personal feud erupts between protagonists Gregory Peck and Charlton Heston. Adapted by Jessamyn West, the story's pacifist message still leaves room for action, including the moonlit marathon fistfight between Heston and Peck. With Jean Simmons, Carroll Baker, Burl Ives (Oscar-winner), Charles Bickford, Chuck Connors. Music: Jerome Moross. Camera: Franz F. Planer (US 1958) 166 min.

Craig Barron, Academy Governor, film historian and leading visual effects supervisor, will introduce this screening and discuss the film's production and restoration. Following the screening, Judy Wyler Sheldon, daughter of William Wyler, will share her memories. The Big Country was restored by the Academy Film Archive with support from The Film Foundation.

Academy Color Restorations

Presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
in association with the California Film Institute

As part of our ongoing partnership with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, we are pleased to present three films recently restored by the Academy in cooperation with The Film Foundation and other organizations. Smith Rafael Film Center audiences have a rare opportunity to enjoy beautiful new color prints from the Academy Archive. These presentations at the Rafael have been produced by Ellen M. Harrington for the Academy and Richard Peterson for California Film Institute.