The Seven Faces Of Dr. Lao

Director: George Pal
Year of Release: 1964
Writers: Charles G. Finney (novel), Charles Beaumont (screenplay)
Cast highlights: Tony Randall and a stunningly beautiful Barbara Eden

Element of wonder ****
Level of Bizarreness **
visual Beauty ***
Counterculture Appeal **
Story Depth *****


Best Quote...
Young boy: "Are you an acrobat"?
Dr. Lao: "Only philosophically".

I first saw this film when I was very young boy. I remember it playing on television and it having a big effect on me. After having the chance to see it again recently, I now understand a bit better why it has stayed with me all this time.

Tony Randall plays the mysterious and endearing character of Dr. Lao a traveling showman who brings a circus of wonders to a small western town on the verge of modernization. Randall portrays all the various freaks and performers of the circus quite convincingly and charmingly as each performer holds up a mirror of truth to the citizens of the town they interact with and helps them to understand their foibles.

The visual effects are simplistic and unimpressive by today's standards yet they still have a nostalgic charm to them. I find myself wishing that someone would remake this wonderful film using modern technology, but then I also find myself praying that they don't because I doubt a modern film maker we have much luck capturing the charm of it.

One thing that should be noted is that on seeing this film has an adult, I realize that some may find it a bit offensive due to pretty broad racial stereotyping. And indeed I found myself scratching my head a bit and thinking that times sure have changed. But Randall's portrayal of a mysterious wise show man from the far east is self aware of the stereotype, seems respectful and does have some historical basis. Around the time period that the film was set in, there were many magicians and hucksters running around pretending to be from a far off asian land because, to their patrons, those places seemed so exotic and strange. That lack of familiarity created an environment which allowed the audience to belive that the wonders they were witnessing where indeed possible.

I feel very lucky to have been clearly inspired by this film in my formative years. Something about it allways stuck with me and I think that thing is the film's ultimate message that, even in the midst of the most mundane in existence, wonder and mystery can still be found if you take the time to look for it.

Something I find to be very true.