Doctor Dolittle and his gift of speaking to, and understanding, animals has enthralled audiences since 1920 when Hugh Lofting first published his tale. The cinema has given us several versions of the beloved character, from Rex Harrison’s iconic 1967 turn to Eddie Murphy’s somewhat hilarious and charming incarnation in the 1998 comedy. Now, fresh on home video formats, is Robert Downey Jr. donning the famed doctor’s hat who would rather treat animals than humans.
The latest film is a spectacle for the eyes and Downey is a prime choice to take the reins of the beloved character. The Iron Man star does his best to bring something tangibly tantalizing to a role and a story audiences have experienced prior. The thing is, the script fails him and much of the all-star voice cast that were tapped to embody the animals that speak to the good doctor.
But the thing is, one needn’t look too deeply into the film’s faults because—this flick is not for you and me. It is for those young enough to still have wonder in their eyes. For children, this is a joyous journey that possesses a massive scope and achieves some incredible visual effects and teaches some valuable lessons. They run the gamut from being kind to one another, especially our animal friends, to the art of selfless giving of one’s life to a passion worthy of our existence. It is also a story of friendship and all the forms that that entity can take.
Sadly, the reality is what Stephen Gaghan delivered with his co-written script is nothing short of a misfire to the rest of us. There aren’t much in terms of jokes or moments of hilarity in Dolittle. Heck, there’s even a farting dragon. This is a missed opportunity on several fronts. This could have been a franchise, but instead will probably be a one-off. Sadly, Downey as the titular character, combined with the technical marvel that is the special effects of those animals brought to life, and a huge opportunity appears to have been missed.
The voice cast is sensational. Emma Thompson’s Poly is a delight, while Rami Malek’s (Bohemian Rhapsody) Chee-Chee is utterly endearing. Then, there’s John Cena who shows some serious comedic chops as Yoshi alongside Kumail Nanjiani’s Plimpton and Octavia Spencer’s Dab-Dab. Tom Holland was a marvel as Jip, with Craig Robinson rocking as Kevin and Ralph Fiennes’ brilliant turn as Barry and Selena Gomez’s delightful effort as Betsy. Marion Cotillard and Jason Mantzoukas round out the voice cast as Tutu and James the Dragonfly, respectively. See, all that talent and visual wizardry and such a flat story. Luckily, the youngest viewers will still lap it up and in the end, that is exactly who this film is meant for.
For us adults, this is one of those home video releases that is utterly redeemed by its behind-the-scenes bonus features.
Downey, Jr. introduces some of the characters and the actors who voice them in an enjoyable featurette Talk to the Animals. It’s fun to see how Downey relates to the Harry Collett, who had the honor of appearing opposite him as Tommy Stubbins. RDJ & Harry: Mentor and Mentee chronicles the kinship between the living legend and his young co-star. It’s downright heartwarming to witness this featurette.
Speaking of Downey, Becoming the Good Doctor showcases how the storied actor became Dolittle, from his makeup and hairstyling to the costuming and digging deep internally to find the character.
Antonio Banderas had a ball portraying King Rassouli and his journey to this story is documented in Antonio Banderas: Pirate King. The Spanish actor talks about what drew him to the project and shares some great anecdotes about working alongside Downey.
Another fantastic actor that appeared in Dolittle is Michael Sheen. The Wicked Dr. Müdfly shines a spotlight on Sheen and his onscreen work.
Lastly, viewers get an inside look into the house that must accommodate both humans and animals. A Most Unusual House follows the construction and execution of one of the film’s biggest locales.
Film Grade: C
Bonus Features: B