Watch 7 Faces of Dr. Lao

7 Faces of Dr. Lao is a 1964 fantasy film directed by George Pal and based on the novel The Circus of Dr. Lao by Charles G. Finney. The film stars Tony Randall in seven different roles, Barbara Eden, Arthur O'Connell, and John Ericson. The story takes place in the sleepy town of Abalone, where a traveling circus arrives seemingly out of nowhere. The owner of the circus, Dr. Lao (played by Tony Randall), is a mysterious and enigmatic figure with a magical touch. The circus is not an ordinary one. Instead, it is full of strange and fantastical creatures, including a medusa, a sphinx, and a four-armed Hindu goddess.

As the townspeople begin to visit the circus, they are greeted by Dr. Lao and his various personas, each one more eccentric than the last. From a Chinese sage to a cowboy to a giant sea serpent, Dr. Lao's personas provide the townspeople with insights and lessons that they never expected.

The film is a whimsical and imaginative exploration of the human psyche and the universal themes of love, courage, and redemption. The townspeople, each struggling with their own personal demons and desires, find solace and guidance in the circus and Dr. Lao's wisdom.

Barbara Eden plays the role of Angela Benedict, the local newspaper editor, and love interest of the town's unscrupulous businessman, Clint Stark (played by John Ericson). As the circus comes to town, Angela finds herself drawn to Dr. Lao and the mysterious world he brings with him.

Arthur O'Connell plays the role of Ed Cunningham, a struggling drunkard and Angela's friend. Ed is one of the first townspeople to visit the circus and is transformed by his experience. He becomes a symbol of redemption and hope for the rest of the town.

The film blends elements of fantasy, western, and philosophy, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. The special effects and makeup are exceptional for the time, and Tony Randall's performances as Dr. Lao's various personas are a testament to his versatility as an actor.

The film also tackles issues of racism and prejudice, as the townspeople struggle to accept the circus's diverse and strange inhabitants. Dr. Lao's personas, each representing a different culture or belief system, provide a powerful message of acceptance and unity.

Overall, 7 Faces of Dr. Lao is an imaginative and thought-provoking film that explores the human condition and the power of imagination. The film's message of hope and redemption still resonates today, making it a classic of its time.

7 Faces of Dr. Lao is a 1964 fantasy movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.