Cast
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Rex Harrison
as Dr. John Dolittle
Samantha Eggar
as Emma Fairfax
Anthony Newley
as Matthew Mugg
Richard Attenborough
as Albert Blossom
Peter Bull
as General Bellowes
Muriel Landers
as Mrs. Blossom
William Dix
as Tommy Stubbins
Geoffrey Holder
as William Shakespeare X
Portia Nelson
as Sarah Dolittle
Norma Varden
as Lady Fetherington
Frank Baker
as Trial Spectator (uncredited)
Edward Cast
as Prison Guard (uncredited)
Phyllis Coghlan
as Courtroom Spectator (uncredited)
Robert Cole
as Roustabout (uncredited)
Cyril Cross
as Charlie (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Richard Fleischer
Producer
- Arthur P. Jacobs
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Doctor Dolittle represents a fascinating example of Music/Family/Comedy/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Richard Fleischer brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1967, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Doctor Dolittle took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $18.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 151 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 204 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1967, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Doctor Dolittle shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ronja the Robber's Daughter, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Doctor Dolittle subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and Mary Poppins explore similar territory, Doctor Dolittle stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 5, 1967
- Runtime: 2h 31m
- Budget: $18,000,000
- Revenue: $9,000,000
