It's hard to tell whether "Dr. Dolittle 2" is really as mediocre as it seems or whether it's just the sheer volume of bodily function and sexual jokes that make it appear that way.

At least this sequel to the extremely crude 1998 hit is funnier than its predecessor, and star Eddie Murphy is more charming than he's been in a live-action movie in quite some time.

But what's particularly frustrating is that, given both those things, the film didn't need to stoop to such a low level of crudity. It's got a decent story, a good cast and a good message (about protecting wildlife and the environment).

But after being bludgeoned by the umpteenth flatulence joke or sex gag, it's hard to remember (or enjoy) any of that. This is also another one of those movies that make you want to take the MPAA to task — since they allowed it to get a PG rating, when it easily deserves a PG-13 instead.

Murphy reprises his role as John Dolittle, a kind-hearted veterinarian who can converse with animals. But as he's grown comfortable with that ability, it's become both a help and a hindrance.

For instance, he finds himself unable to communicate with his teenage daughter Charisse (Raven-Symone), who would rather spend time with her new boyfriend (musician Lil' Zane) than with her increasingly odd father.

If that isn't bad enough, he's also received an urgent plea from several forest animals, whose homes are being threatened by an unscrupulous logging firm.

They're in luck, though. It turns out there's an endangered species of bear living in the forest, and there's a female bear that's ready to breed. Unfortunately, the only male of the species that's available is coddled circus performer named Archie (Utah animal performer Tank, given a "voice" by comic actor Steve Zahn).

So while the good doctor tries to help Archie get in touch with his "inner bear," logging officials (Jeffrey Jones and Kevin Pollak) are planning to do anything it takes to get what they want.

This is better-directed than the first film, but what Steve Carr has to work with is a script (by Larry Levin, who also co-wrote its predecessor) that doesn't believe in the strengths of its character and performers.

Again, Murphy is more relaxed and funnier, and his interactions with Kristen Wilson and Raven-Symone are believable. But as far as the voice cast is concerned, it's a little disheartening to see people as talented as Zahn and Lisa Kudrow employed for such low humor.

"Dr. Dolittle 2" is rated PG for crude humor (including toilet, flatulence and sexual gags), slapstick violence and scattered use of mild profanity. Running time: 88 minutes.

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