Common Sense Media Review
Eddie Murphy's animal antics are fun, with some potty humor.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Dr. Dolittle 2
What's the Story?
In DR. DOLITTLE 2, Dolittle (Eddie Murphy) is charged with introducing a tame bear into the forest so that he can mate with the last female of their endangered species, in order to protect the forest from developers. Steve Zahn and Lisa Kudrow provide voices for the two bears. Meanwhile, Dolittle has some problems at home with his teen daughter Charisse (played by Raven Symone) who has a new boyfriend (rapper Lil' Zane) and a secret she isn't ready to discuss.
Is It Any Good?
It's a shame that before the opening credits are over, we've already seen bathroom jokes and sexual humor -- but at least this time it's more kid-friendly. (The 1998 Dr. Dolittle was rated PG-13). On the upside, Murphy is just great as Dr. Dolittle, content to be the straight man to an adorable assortment of wise-cracking animals. And the story is cute; Dr. Dolittle 2 is a twist on the old classic Born Free. Zahn and Kudrow offer such delightful voices to the bears that viewers want them to get together as much as Dolittle does.
Watch for the fun cameo by Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin. Other celebs do voice cameos, including an uncredited Arnold Schwarzenegger, but Irwin's segment offers the most laughs.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how the responsibility of prioritizing family while also helping others who need support. They can also talk about the importance of listening to the people you love.
How does the movie convey a pro-environmental message?
How does Dr. Dolittle 2 compare to other movies in which animals talk and act like humans?
Movie Details
- In theaters : June 22, 2001
- On DVD or streaming : October 23, 2001
- Cast : Eddie Murphy , Kristen Wilson , Raven Symone
- Director : Steve Carr
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Twentieth Century Fox
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Animals ( Wild Animals )
- Run time : 96 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : crude humor and sexual references
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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