DOCTOR DOLITTLE is the famous film version of the Hugh Lofting novels, starring Rex Harrison as the fellow with a penchant for communicating with animals large and small. It was notoriously a flop on release but watching it these days it's hard to see why; the likable, fast-moving narrative features plenty of good songs and the situation is naturally humorous and allows itself to comedy. Harrison may have been one of the less friendly stars of his age but he fits the role like a glove and Anthony Newley and Samantha Eggar give good support too. Plus, if you're an animal lover then you'll enjoy the material anyway, because all kinds of breeds and species get plenty of funny screen time. I enjoyed it just as much as a well-regarded classic like THE SOUND OF MUSIC.
Review of Doctor Dolittle
