7 Faces of Dr. Lao

7 Faces of Dr. Lao, released in 1964, is an American fantasy film directed by the brilliant George Pal, well-known for his innovative puppetry and animation work as well as his inventive science fiction and fantasy films. With a stellar cast that includes Tony Randall, Barbara Eden, and Arthur O'Connell, the movie presents an alluring blend of magic, fantasy, humor, and moral lessons.

The central character, Dr. Lao, portrayed with multi-dimensional depth by Tony Randall, is an enigmatic, ageless figure who has travelled the world across time. He possesses various mystical capabilities and uses them to unveil the hidden truths of human nature. Dr. Lao’s magical traveling circus, populated with mythical figures from different cultures, stands as the embodiment of his powers.

The plot pivots around the small Western town of Abalone, Arizona, populated with residents that have stagnated in their narrow-minded ways. When Dr. Lao arrives with his circus, the town is on the verge of being sold to a corrupt and outright villainous tycoon, Clinton Stark, brilliantly played by Arthur O'Connell. Assisting Stark is the self-absorbed Ed Cunningham, effectively portrayed by John Ericson, who is also the object of unrequited love from local librarian Angela Benedict, very convincingly played by Barbara Eden. Angela, as a passionate opponent to Stark's plans, serves as the moral compass around which the remaining characters revolve.

Tony Randall gives a memorable performance as he not only plays the role of Dr. Lao but also breathes life into six other characters - a mythical medusa, Merlin the magician, Pan the god of the wilderness, Apollonius of Tyana, the giant serpent, and the abominable snowman. Each character has its unique charm and significance, adding color and humor while showcasing Randall's exceptional acting range. The "seven faces" of Dr. Lao are a testament to the movie's theme of understanding and embracing diversity in all its forms.

Director George Pal's distinct storytelling technique paints a vivid picture of the town of Abalone and sets the stage for Dr. Lao's magical circus. With this distinctive narrative, the movie seamlessly blends everyday reality with the supernatural while gently challenging the viewer's perceptions of both. This concept is substantiated by the distinctive visual effects, which, while dated by today's standards, hold a certain nostalgic charm and can be appreciated in this historical context.

Through the tales of the circus, Dr. Lao aims to challenge and provoke thoughts amongst the citizens of Abalone. Each folkloric figure captivates, terrifies, and delights the townsfolk, often revealing inconvenient truths about their lives and forcing them to confront hidden aspects of their character. This invariably leads them towards crucial self-realizations and a better understanding of life and their role in it.

As quirky and entertaining as it is deeply philosophical, 7 Faces of Dr. Lao incorporates elements of entertainment and straightforward moral lessons in a unique mixture. The film constantly evokes themes of greed versus empathy, prejudice versus understanding, and stagnation versus growth. A significant aspect is how the townsfolk's seemingly mundane problems are illuminated under Lao's mystical spotlight, pushing them towards personal transformations and collective betterment.

Where the movie truly shines, however, is in the craftsmanship of its protagonists by the actors involved. Tony Randall's characters are delightfully diverse – ranging from utterly terrifying to humorous, comical to deeply philosophical – and each one adds a different flavor to the narrative. Barbara Eden shines as Angela Benedict, making the viewer sympathize with her silent struggle against injustice. This, combined with the charismatic antagonist played by Arthur O’Connell, creates a unique movie-watching experience.

Underneath its playful, carnival exterior, 7 Faces of Dr. Lao presents viewers with a deeper theme, encouraging them to question established norms, reassess their hidden prejudices, and embrace change. Above all, the movie asks viewers to consider that beneath the ordinary façade of our everyday world, extraordinary magic may be waiting to unfold if one is open to it. This multi-layered, timeless film is sure to capture the hearts of all those who choose to step into the magical world of Dr. Lao and his travelling circus.