The Smurfs were a regular part of my Saturday morning cartoon diet. I loved them so much that I wouldn’t be surprised if my dad switched over to BP so that he could get little bratty Nadia those promotional Smurfs figurines with every refuel.
Despite this obsession with Smurfs, I have never seen a Smurf movie as an adult. The Smurfs’ 2011 jaunt with live action did not entice me. The CGI abomination repelled me from even watching the trailers.
So I was beyond relieved that the latest Smurfs movies has ditched the creepy pseudo-realistic character designs. Instead, we see a 3D animation style that leans heavily towards the original character designs and reintroduces the charm and whimsy of the blue imps for a new generation of fans. The random speech bubbles are a nice nod to Smurfs’ comic book origins.
But is catering to the stylistic preferences of the OG fans enough to make it a good movie?
Reviewing childrens’ movies as an adult can be difficult. As adults with a longer history of watching movies, reading books and well, living life, we can often be more critiical than warranted. It is akin saying The Hungry Caterpillar is boring because it’s so repetitive – when it’s a perfect book for the toddlers it aims to please.
Smurfs’ storyline is simple and in places, predictable. However, it also makes it easy for younger viewers to follow. Throw in some genuine laugh out loud moments and messages about self-identity and you’ve got a film that I would happily add to the school holiday movie roster.
The wholesomeness of this movie is especially surprising given that writer Pam Brady is known for her writing on South Park. But hers is not the only notable name on the production list.
Smurfs boasts an impressive ensemble cast. John Goodman, James Codrden, Nick Offerman, Bllie Lourde, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris and surprisingly, Rihanna (who also produced the movie).
As someone who grew up with the OG smurfs, it felt strange hearing Rihanna voice Smurfette. The Smurfette I grew up with was a girly girl. However, once I pushed that old perception aside, I enjoyed having a Smurfette who is confident, sassy and still kind. What a joy to have a strong female character in a children’s movie.
However, I’m not a fan of the retooled Gargamel. The changes appear to be part of a larger plot device but it made Gargamel too soft for my liking. I would have loved to see a bit more ruthlessness and evil wizardry from him.
Those minor character gripes aside, the Smurfs is an enjoyable watch that caters to every age group. The simple plot, subtle pop culture references and and nostalgia ensure everyone in the family has something to keep them happy.
Smurfs opens in cinemas on 10th July.