Movie: Smurfs

The younger you are the more likely you are to enjoy Smurfs, the latest animated movie featuring the much-loved tiny blue humanoid creatures.

In our group of four the highest marks came from an eight-year-old, the next from a 10-year-old. Both marks were high. Then came the children’s mother and then their great aunt!

It’s easy to see the appeal of the Smurfs to youngsters since their introduction to the world in 1958 by Belgian artist and writer Peyo. They are cute to look at and have some very appealing names and characteristics.

In this latest offering their very existence is under threat thanks to the actions of some evil wizards.

When we first meet the Smurfs they are living happily in an idyllic village in the forest. All have names which suit their nature such as Brainy, Hefty and Worry Smurf. About the only one who is not content is No Name Smurf (voiced by James Corden) for obvious reasons!

Disaster strikes when No Name decides magic should be his go. Feeling sorry for him, magic book Jaunty, (Amy Sedaris) decides to help. The problem – Jaunty has been hidden away in the woods for more than 100 years to ensure the safety of the world.

Jaunty is one of four magical books that maintain peace and harmony throughout the universe. Three of those books are now in the possession of the Evil Alliance of Wizards, who will do anything to get the fourth.

Smurf patriarch and protector Papa Smurf (John Goodman) hid Jaunty many years ago and now the wizards know where it is they spring into action.

As a result, Papa Smurf is kidnapped by the evil wizards Gargamel and his brother Razamel (both voiced by JP Karliak). From that point on the movie becomes an audacious rescue mission as an intrepid group led by Smurfette (Rihanna) and No Name travel to outback Australia, Paris, Munich and a variety of alternate universes in search of their leader.

Along the way they meet up with Papa’s brother Ken (Nick Offerman) and learn of the existence of Papa’s long lost brother Ron (Kurt Russell).

In Australia they come in contact with the Snooterpoots, inter-dimensional creatures that live underground and run a gas station in the middle of the desert. Matriarch Mama Poot (Natasha Lyonne) assists in the search for Papa Smurf.

Music has always been an essential element of the Smurf franchise, and that tradition is alive and well in this movie. The soundtrack album features 14 original songs performed by recording artists including Rihanna, who wrote and recorded the song Friend of Mine especially for the movie.

It is this combination of music, plenty of colour, movement and action and, of course, some cute looking ‘stars’ which provided the rationale for my young companions’ near perfect rating.

 Smurfs is now playing in cinemas around Australia.

*Photo credit: Smurfs™ & © PEYO – 2025 Lic. Lafig B./IMPS © 2025 Par. Pics.