The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean was released on this day, December 17, 1972. Directed by John Huston and starring Paul Newman, this Western comedy-drama is loosely based on the real-life Roy Bean—a saloon keeper turned self-appointed judge in West Texas. After surviving a brutal attack in the lawless town of Vinegaroon, Bean returns to exact revenge and declares himself “the law west of the Pecos.” He establishes his own brand of justice while idolizing the famous actress Lillie Langtry (Av