We have our “Viewer’s Choice” selection for the next “Roy’s Tie-Dye Sci-Fi Corner.” Thanks to Jack Dailey for his suggestion of “The Lathe of Heaven” (1980).

Ursula K. Le Guin personally oversaw this no-budget TV adaptation of her mind-bending 1971 novel that somehow succeeds in being one of the most absorbing sci-fi films you will ever see. What’s even more astonishing is that it was remastered from the only available source: a two-inch Quadruplex videotape copy. So this really is an example of some rather flimsy technology conveying some very weighty ideas. Hollywood, take note: it really is all about the story, dammit. The film made a huge impression when it first aired, becoming the second most requested program in PBS history.

“The Lathe of Heaven” supports Shakespeare’s observation that we are such stuff as dreams are made on. Also, we should be careful what we wish for.

Watch it at the link (because the copy on YouTube stinks and I can’t find it streaming legally anywhere else), and for the love of Mike, avoid the James Caan remake!*

https://archive.org/details/the-lathe-of-heaven-1980

Then tune in tomorrow, as we discuss just how weird Portland can get. Bring your hacky sacks to the comments section, for the next Roy’s Tie-Dye Sci-Fi Corner. We’ll risk destruction on “The Lathe of Heaven,” when we livestream on Facebook, this Friday evening at 7:30 EDT!

https://www.facebook.com/roystiedyescificorner

• PLEASE NOTE: I posted this this morning, before I learned of Caan’s death. No disrespect intended. He was a fine actor, who will be remembered for his work during one of the greatest eras in American film. R.I.P.