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Now that most of another year’s heavy, serious award contenders have made their way to theaters, it’s time to make way for the movies of January. Generally, it’s not a time of year for strong, memorable films. But if your family is looking for a little bit of action-packed winter entertainment, Robert Downey Jr. comes through in Dolittle.
Dolittle stars Downey as the famed doctor who can talk to animals. After the death of his beloved wife, the doctor has locked himself and his animal friends away from the outside world. But when a kind-hearted boy named Stubbins (Harry Collett) arrives to ask the doctor to save an injured squirrel just as Lady Rose (Carmel Laniado) comes to escort the doctor to the palace to save the dying queen, Dolittle is drawn out of hiding. And in order to save the queen, he’ll have to set out on the same journey that took his wife’s life.
After more than a decade of playing Tony Stark in the Avengers movies, Robert Downey, Jr. has found a comfortable transition film in this family-friendly comedy. Dr. Dolittle may not have the same kind of super powers as Iron Man, but he has his own kind of superhuman ability: the ability to talk to (and understand) animals. He may not be out saving the planet, but he’s still battling bad guys in order to save the queen. And although he’s surrounded by animals instead of superheroes, he still manages to go on some pretty amazing adventures.
Nothing here is taken too seriously—and that fits perfectly with Downey’s style. He gives his own take on the role, giving the character the kind of cynicism and dry wit that you’d expect. And, really, Downey alone makes the film entertaining for grown-up fans. Kids, meanwhile, will just love the action, the silliness, and (best of all) the eccentric characters. The animals all have their own personalities and quirks—and they all tend to bicker like siblings.
Of course, that doesn’t mean that you’ll see Dolittle popping up on next year’s award ceremonies. The humor has its low-brow moments, and the story isn’t especially strong. This isn’t a particularly memorable movie, but Downey and his animal friends make it a fun one.
If you miss Iron Man and need a little dose of Downey’s wit—or if you just need to get the kids out of the house before the winter weather makes you all crazy—Dolittle is a worthwhile choice. It’s silly, it’s action-packed, and it’s got Robert Downey, Jr. doing what he loves.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
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