Let's talk about a hidden gem from the '70s that's streaming for free and deserves a second look. I'm referring to "The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean," a Western comedy starring the charismatic Paul Newman. This film, directed by the legendary John Huston, offers a unique take on the Wild West and provides an interesting glimpse into the creative tensions that can arise during the filmmaking process.
The story revolves around Roy Bean, a self-appointed justice of the peace who rules with an iron fist in Val Verde County, Texas. It's a loose adaptation of the real-life exploits of Bean, and it's a role that Newman, fresh off his success in "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," seems born to play. However, the film's writer, John Milius, had a very different vision for Bean's character.
Milius, known for his conservative views and colorful dialogue, saw Bean as an obsessed, Lawrence of Arabia-like figure, a man driven by a grand vision of law and order. He believed that Bean's actions, no matter how extreme, were in the name of progress and the American spirit. Milius' take on Bean is intriguing, and it's a shame we didn't get to see his full vision on screen. From my perspective, it would have been a more complex and thought-provoking portrayal, especially given the current climate of law enforcement overreach.
Huston's version, while entertaining, seems to soften Bean's edges, making him more "cute" and less reprehensible, as Milius put it. This might explain why the film, despite its initial success, has been largely forgotten. The aesthetic, imitative of "Butch Cassidy," also dates the film, and some of the musical choices might make modern audiences cringe. However, Newman's star power and the talented supporting cast, including Ned Beatty and Anthony Perkins, make it worth a watch, especially as it's freely available on YouTube.
What many people don't realize is that the creative clash between Huston and Milius is a common occurrence in Hollywood. It's a delicate balance between the director's vision and the writer's words, and sometimes, as in this case, it results in a film that doesn't fully satisfy either party. Personally, I think it's a fascinating insight into the collaborative nature of filmmaking and a reminder that even the most talented artists can have differing perspectives.
So, if you're looking for a unique Western with a touch of comedy and a glimpse into Hollywood history, "The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean" is a worthwhile watch. It might not be the definitive version of the story, but it offers an entertaining glimpse into a bygone era and the creative minds that shaped it.
