Doctor Dolittle

About Doctor Dolittle

"Doctor Dolittle" is a 1998 American fantasy comedy film directed by Betty Thomas, written by Larry Levin and Nat Mauldin, and starring Eddie Murphy in the titular role. The film was inspired by the series of children's stories of the same name by Hugh Lofting but used no material from any of the novels. The story begins when a young Dolittle finds he can hear animals' thoughts. But when his abilities are revived after years of repression, he becomes a veterinarian with an unusual clientele.

Making / Production

Directed by Betty Thomas and produced by John Davis, the movie was principally filmed in Los Angeles, California, specifically in and around Griffith Park. The movie was known for its reliance on animal training and puppetry, with some use of CGI for the talking animal effects. The movie was a significant departure from the Lofting novels and a reboot of the original film series.

Actors

• Eddie Murphy played the role of Dr. John Dolittle. Murphy's comedic style and timing brought a fresh perspective to the character.
• Ossie Davis portrayed Archer Dolittle, John's father, who discovered his son's ability and how he dealt with it formed a crucial part of the narrative.
• Oliver Platt, playing Dr. Mark Weller, convincingly portrayed Dolittle's friend and medical partner, who struggles to accept Dolittle's abilities.
• Peter Boyle depicted Calloway, a man who initially opposes Dolittle. His performance brought tension and conflict to the plot.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This is the second Doctor Dolittle film, but it doesn’t follow the same narrative as the 1967 original.
• Despite being a comedy for children, the film earned a PG-13 rating due to some of its crude humor.
• Over 50 different animals were used in the making of the film, each requiring a trainer.

Quotes

• Dr. John Dolittle: "You're gonna have to do what I do. Find a human to take care of you."
• Lucky: "Oh great. That's just what I need. Some pinhead who doesn't know he's dealing with... next thing you'll be telling me you're going to light a match."

Music and Soundtrack

• "Talk to the Animals" was the main theme for the movie, an updated version of the song from the original 1967 film.
• "I Think I Like You" by Changing Faces, "Do Little Things" by Changing Faces and Ivan Matias are few among the various songs that formed the vibrant soundtrack of the film.