In the latest attempt to revive the tiny blue creatures of childhood fame, Smurfs brings pop royalty Rihanna to the microphone as Smurfette and even features a new song, but star power alone can’t save this lackluster animated reboot.
Directed by Chris Miller (Puss in Boots, Shrek the Third), Smurfs follows a familiar formula, borrowing liberally from the Trolls playbook: colorful forest creatures, musical numbers, and a feel-good quest. This time, Papa Smurf (voiced by John Goodman) kicks things off by DJing in the village, setting the stage for a bright, fast-paced but uninspired ride.
The story centers on No Name Smurf (James Corden), a blue blob without a defining trait in a village full of overly specific Smurfs. When he unexpectedly gains magical powers, he sets off a dangerous chain of events that threatens the entire Smurf Village. Enter Razamel, an evil wizard and brother of the iconic Gargamel, who embarks on a quest for world domination. What follows is a madcap adventure across multiple dimensions, from Paris to Australia, with even a detour into Claymation.
Despite the international chase and a few zany moments (including Rihanna singing from a kangaroo pouch), the film never manages to lift itself above its Saturday morning cartoon roots. Gags aimed at adults — from jokes about LinkedIn to spam filters — fall flat, and the movie’s strongest moments are diluted by an overreliance on IP-driven content and thin storytelling.
Scripted by Pam Brady (Hot Rod, Team America: World Police), Smurfs aims to appeal to both kids and nostalgic adults, but mostly ends up serving as a gentle 90-minute distraction for young viewers.
Rated PG for action, language, and some rude humor, Smurfs clocks in at 92 minutes and ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. With just one and a half stars out of four, this reboot adds little to the legacy of Peyo’s beloved blue beings.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
- Paraluman P. Funtanilla
