The Night of the Grizzly

The Night of the Grizzly is a thrilling western film from 1966 starring Clint Walker, Martha Hyer, Keenan Wynn, and Nancy Kulp. The story revolves around Big Jim Cole (played by Clint Walker), a retired lawman who inherits a vast piece of land in Wyoming. However, the land is also home to a massive grizzly bear that's been terrorizing the local ranchers for years.

Despite warnings from the locals, Cole decides to keep the land and take on the responsibility of protecting his cattle and family from the grizzly. He enlists the help of two fellow ranchers and a local Native American to track and hunt the bear, but it soon becomes clear that the animal is far more cunning and dangerous than they anticipated.

Meanwhile, Cole's family is dealing with their own set of challenges. His wife Angela (played by Martha Hyer) struggles to adjust to life on a remote ranch, while his teenage daughter Lisa (played by Victoria Paige Meyerink) is dealing with a romantic entanglement with a local boy. As tensions rise and the grizzly becomes more aggressive, it becomes clear that Cole and his family are in serious danger.

The Night of the Grizzly is a classic western with all the hallmarks of the genre: brave heroes, treacherous villains, and plenty of action. The film features beautiful scenery from the Wyoming wilderness, as well as thrilling chase scenes and intense confrontations with the grizzly. Clint Walker delivers a compelling performance as the stoic lawman grappling with his own mortality and the safety of his family.

Beyond the action and adventure, the film also explores themes of family, duty, and honor. Cole's love for his family and his sense of responsibility to protect his land and cattle drive his actions, even when faced with overwhelming danger. The relationship between Cole and his daughter Lisa is particularly poignant, as he struggles to balance his protective instincts with her desire for independence and romance.

Overall, The Night of the Grizzly is a must-see for fans of the western genre and anyone who loves a good adventure story. With stunning scenery, memorable performances, and heart-pumping action, it's a film that's sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.