1980 PBS TV Adaptation of Ursula K. Le Guin's 'The Lathe of Heaven' Reviewed

A 1980 made-for-TV film adaptation of Ursula K. Le Guin's novel 'The Lathe of Heaven' is featured in a weekly movie series. Directed by David Loxton and Fred Barzyk, the low-budget PBS production stars Bruce Davison, Kevin Conway, and Margaret Avery. Reviews note its dated effects and amateurish production values, yet praise its faithful translation of Le Guin's complex sci-fi concepts. The plot follows George Orr, whose dreams alter reality, leading to unintended consequences under psychiatrist Dr. Haber's manipulation. Critics highlight eerie scenes, such as the erasure of six billion people and a grey-skinned world to end racial prejudice, though the ending is deemed confusing. Despite its flaws, the film is considered a surprisingly effective adaptation for its time, capturing the novel's surreal 'Monkey's Paw' narrative. Next week's film in the series is 'White Sun of the Desert'.