The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean

This film is a true original. If one were to nutshell it you could call it a surreal dark comic western. It's rare that you get such individualistic talents as director John Huston, writer John Milius, and actor Paul Newman together for one project. It's rarer that the result produces gold. Huston, with some exception, was something of a cynic in his work. Milius, considered something of a bad boy in Hollywood, was known for his conservative political bent. As noted in a recent obituary for Newman he betrayed his matinee idol looks and pursued rebel roles and offbeat projects. As a previous reviewer stated Huston and Milius take liberties with Judge Bean's life. Though some of the elements are true for the most part this is a fanciful work. But it's an artistic triumph. If one needs to pursue the "truth" go to the library. This film is completely mesmerizing with witty dialogue that crackles. This is definitely one of Newman's more underrated performances. It's an understated performance that barely conceals his off-kilter character. Stacy Keach has a great cameo as Bad Bob an adversary of Bean's who has the audacity to denigrate the Judge's feminine ideal, Lillie Langtry. This isn't just a great western, if one could call it that, but a great film, period.

It has been at least ten years since I last watched "Roy Bean". It is a fun movie and a pleasure to watch. Paul Newman is quite good as "The Law West of the Pecos".

Had been wanting to see this again for years. What a beloved little film. Evokes a special feeling about how communities and cities flux and change and people migrate away but hope is never ending. Film was a decent transfer but considering the age of the film and graininess of film of the era, was understandable.

My husband had looked everywhere wanting this DVD. Leave it to Amazon to connect us to it. . it is just what we wanted. Thanks!

This is one of my all time favorite western movies. I recommend it to Paul Newman fans and western fans. Notable for first appearance of Victoria Principal.