Doctor Dolittle (1967)
I loved Doctor Dolittle, from the lovely Leslie Bricusse songs to the beautiful costumes, adorable animals, detailed direction, and the genuine enjoyment that seemed to come from the cast. (I use the word “seem” because it was actually quite difficult to film, and Rex Harrison had a terrible time – though you’d never know it.) Samantha Eggar was lovely and proved to the audience that she could have easily been Mary Poppins (really, why wasn’t she?). Anthony Newley was charming in his I’m-the-singing-Alan-Bates style, and his particular style really helped elevate the energy throughout the film. Richard Attenborough had an adorable cameo and threatened to steal the show during his rousing number; and who would have thought he had it in him? Rex Harrison was as likable as he could possibly be, although I would have preferred David Niven in the title role, or even Peter O’Toole. Anyone who played Henry Higgins could play Dr. Dolittle, and it’s easy to see the parallels between the two characters.
If all you’ve seen are the modern remakes, give the original a chance. It’ll be better than you think, although it’s quite different because it’s a period piece and a musical. But it’s charming, sweet, family friendly, and truly delightful. At a time when movies like Bonnie & Clyde and In Cold Blood were topping the box office charts, Doctor Dolittle was such a refreshing change. Truly one of the best pictures of 1967, it’s perfect for matinee day.
Want to watch it? Click here to see it on ok.ru and thanks "Juhi Thaker" for posting!
More Rex Harrison movies here!
Be sure and check out Hot Toasty Rag's review of 1998's Doctor Dolittle here!
If all you’ve seen are the modern remakes, give the original a chance. It’ll be better than you think, although it’s quite different because it’s a period piece and a musical. But it’s charming, sweet, family friendly, and truly delightful. At a time when movies like Bonnie & Clyde and In Cold Blood were topping the box office charts, Doctor Dolittle was such a refreshing change. Truly one of the best pictures of 1967, it’s perfect for matinee day.
Want to watch it? Click here to see it on ok.ru and thanks "Juhi Thaker" for posting!
More Rex Harrison movies here!
Be sure and check out Hot Toasty Rag's review of 1998's Doctor Dolittle here!
Hot Toasty Rag Awards:
Best Director of 1967: Richard Fleischer
Best Musical Score: Leslie Bricusse
Best Original Song: "After Today"
Hot Toasty Rag Nominations:
Best Picture
Best Original Song: "Like Animals"
Best Original Song: "Something in Your Smile"