SMURFS (2025) is a fully animated musical-fantasy reboot of our beloved blue friends, directed by Matt Landon and Chris Miller and written by Pam Brady. The voice cast includes Rihanna as Smurfette, alongside James Corden, John Goodman, Natasha Lyonne, Octavia Spencer, Kurt Russell, and many more major names in Hollywood.

In SMURFS (2025), No-Name Smurf embarks on a journey of self-discovery after Papa Smurf is kidnapped by the evil wizard Razamel, younger brother to the infamous Gargamel. No-Name, Smurfette, Brainy, Hefty, and some other friends go on a rescue mission that turns into an exploration of identity, community, and belonging. This mission brings out the magic of the Smurfs and Smurf-world. The battle to keep good in the universe (or multiverse), and not allow evil to take over is a major part of this film, with personal battles regarding the light and dark within oneself taking on a secondary role.

Papa Smurf (John Goodman) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Emotionally, SMURFS (2025) delivers character arcs with surprising depth, like No-Name’s need for an identity (or a “thing”, as said in the film), Smurfette’s emergence into leadership, as well as her battle with understanding her past. SMURFS (2025) does a pretty good job with the character arcs of the main cast. Each character felt like they had their own story being told, that wasn’t being overshadowed by another Smurf’s. I felt drawn in, especially with No-Name
Smurf’s struggles with identity, and could empathize with how he was feeling, as it was a struggle I’ve felt, and feel like many people have!

Rihanna’s Smurfette brings warmth and vulnerability as she anchors the narrative. Although it may not be my favourite voice acting role, I’d say she was solid nonetheless. The ensemble cast delivers fun performances that feel sincere, not gimmicky. Although some people are debating Rihanna’s casting, many agree that the full ensemble contributes to a cohesive village energy beyond star power.

Smurfette (Rihanna) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

Original songs are woven into the movie, and the new tunes add to what’s going on, rather than feeling out of place. Rihanna’s single “Friend of Mine” is a standout pop track made for the film, while Henry Jackman’s score balances whimsical orchestration with pop energy, adding to the differences in tone.

It’s also worth noting that SMURFS (2025) is full of references to some of the most popular, and our most favourite, franchises. Some references I picked up on were Ratatouille, Captain America, Everything Everywhere All at Once, and even the Bible’s Samson.

Papa Smurf (John Goodman), No Name (James Corden), Smurfette (Rihanna) and Brainy Smurf (Xolo Mariduena) in Smurfs from Paramount Animation.

SMURFS (2025) brings back the beloved franchise with style, heart, and community spirit. It’s not a perfect film, as pacing and tone occasionally waver, but it confidently blends musical energy, stunning visuals, and emotional depth into a family-friendly adventure that respects both nostalgia and new audiences. The theatre was filled with both kids and adults, watching, laughing, and truly embracing our little blue friends.

If you’re nostalgic for the Smurfs you grew up with or want something colourful and character-rich to enjoy with kids, this reboot is worth checking out, especially for the artful animation, lively music, and heart of the characters. Even if you don’t know the Smurfs (or even don’t really like them), this is still a fun movie that can hold your attention. Hey, let’s be honest, you can always cheer on the villains.

Grab a glass of clamato, and head to theatres on July 18, 2025 to watch SMURFS (2025)!