Smurfs (2025) Review

Plot

Smurfs (2025), directed by Chris Miller, is a vibrant reboot of the beloved classic that revolves around the adorable blue creatures in their safe haven, Smurf Village. The plot kicks off when the main character, Papa Smurf, voiced by John Goodman, is unexpectedly kidnapped by the scheming wizards Gargamel and his brother Razamel (portrayed by JP Karliak). This alarming event catalyzes the narrative, prompting Smurfette, a character voiced by the famous Rihanna, to take charge and rally her fellow Smurfs for a daring rescue mission.

The film follows Smurfette and her eclectic group of allies as they navigate through various chaotic and heartwarming scenarios in a quest that stretches beyond the boundaries of their quaint village. A unique aspect of this adventure is the involvement of No Name, a character who lacks a distinctive identity and trait among the Smurfs. Initially portrayed as unsure and lacking self-esteem, No Name’s journey is closely intertwined with that of Smurfette, as she encourages him to discover his worth throughout their adventure.

While the plot sets up a classic rescue mission, it unfortunately veers into familiar territory, making it feel somewhat predictable. The film does deliver a message of friendship and self-worth, especially through the growing bond between Smurfette and No Name. However, it falls short of delivering the high stakes and thrill typically associated with adventurous narratives, leading to a sometimes sluggish pacing that disrupts the flow.

The soundtrack is another aspect that could have enhanced the film’s atmosphere. While Rihanna's presence brings weight to the character of Smurfette, the musical numbers, aside from a standout remix featuring Cardi B and DJ Khaled, fail to leave a lasting impression. Overall, despite its safe structure, the plot succeeds in conveying positive messages of kindness and loyalty but misses the mark on maintaining an engaging and thrilling adventure that audiences might expect.

Acting

The voice acting in Smurfs (2025) deserves recognition for its lively performances that add depth to the characters. Rihanna shines as Smurfette, infusing her character with charm and emotional nuance that resonates with viewers. Her ability to capture the essence of Smurfette's character elevates the film, especially during moments of vulnerability when Smurfette supports No Name in his struggle for self-acceptance. The original song "Friend of Mine" performed by Rihanna also adds a memorable touch, showcasing her vocal prowess and connecting with audiences on an emotional level.

JP Karliak delivers a commendable performance as both Gargamel and Razamel, bringing a layer of complexity to the antagonists. His portrayal strikes a balance between villainy and humor, making the characters entertaining, even if their motivations lack depth. Supporting characters, like Octavia Spencer as Asmodius and Jimmy Kimmel as Tardigrade, add charm to the narrative, even though their roles feel brief and slightly underutilized. The sporadic appearances of these known actors could provide delightful surprises, but audiences may wish for more substantial contributions to the story.

The ensemble cast, including Amy Sedaris as the talking magic book and Sandra Oh as Moxie Smurf, create a warm atmosphere that complements the film’s themes of friendship and support. The introduction of new characters, such as the plucky Snooterpoots, injects fresh energy into the story, ensuring the audience remains engaged with the ensemble’s banter and camaraderie. The collective voice talent works harmoniously to breathe life into the colorful world of the Smurfs, making the film enjoyable despite its narrative flaws.

While there are highlights in terms of vocal performances, the film’s reliance on familiar tropes and predictable plot lines often lessens the impact of the incredible voice cast. Nevertheless, the heartwarming moments shared among the characters are ultimately what propel the emotional core of this reboot, demonstrating how powerful acting can elevate a story, even in moments where the narrative itself may falter.

Cinematography

When it comes to animation, Smurfs (2025) excels with brilliantly vibrant visuals that capture the essence of the Smurf universe beautifully. The attention to detail in the animation creates an immersive experience that transports viewers into the fantastical realms inhabited by the blue characters. The colors pop off the screen, showcasing lush landscapes and intricately designed settings that appeal to younger audiences and families alike.

The depiction of Smurf Village is a standout, with its charming cottages and whimsical architecture reflecting the lovable nature of the Smurfs. The artists behind the film have ensured that every scene is filled with color, whether it’s the lush greenery surrounding the village or the magical landscapes that the Smurfs traverse on their mission to save Papa Smurf. The use of distinctive colors not only enhances the viewing experience but also visually aligns with the film’s themes of friendship and optimism.

Furthermore, the transitions between the various dimensions explored in the film are handled with a seamless quality that keeps the narrative moving while showcasing these visually stunning environments. The magical elements introduced throughout the adventure are depicted with creativity and flair, making each scene visually engaging. However, while the visual spectacle is remarkable, it sometimes overshadows the storytelling elements.

Despite the film's stunning visual effects, there were moments when the action sequences felt a tad chaotic and could be hard to follow, which might affect the younger audience's comprehension of the story. These moments, while visually appealing, could benefit from clearer choreography and pacing to ensure that the excitement adds to the plot rather than detracting from it.

Overall, the animation quality in Smurfs (2025) enhances its charm and appeal, creating an enjoyable experience that captures the enthusiasm of the Smurf franchise while ensuring that the film is visually delightful. While it succeeds in delivering an immersive experience, a stronger narrative might have made the cinematography's impact even more profound.

Direction

Chris Miller’s direction in Smurfs (2025) presents a straightforward yet vibrant adventure that is primarily centered on nostalgia and charm. While his vision captures the whimsical spirit of the Smurf universe, it falters in pushing the boundaries of storytelling and humor that one might expect from an animated reboot. The film follows a classic template of adventure narratives that often feels too familiar, relying on well-trodden plots without venturing into innovative territory.

One of Miller’s strengths lies in his ability to handle characters and emotional dynamics. The bond between Smurfette and No Name serves as the emotional backbone of the story, demonstrating how friendship can empower individuals to discover their true selves. However, despite these poignant moments, the pacing suffers as the film introduces various supporting characters and subplots that do not significantly contribute to the overall narrative. The scattered focus results in a storytelling experience that sometimes shifts from engaging to sluggish, causing viewers to lose track of the primary mission.

The film does excel in creating a lighthearted atmosphere, making it a safe family-friendly experience with its comedic moments, courtesy of James Corden’s No Name character. However, the humor lacks depth and consistency, often leaning on clichés that might not resonate as intended, leading to opportunities being missed for clever, memorable jokes. The humor is further diluted by predictability in the storyline, as the adventures the Smurfs encounter feel drawn-out rather than thrilling.

While Chris Miller successfully embraces the essence of the Smurfs, his overall vision lacks the boldness that could have transformed this film into a memorable experience. It demonstrates a playful spirit and a devotion to its charm; however, the film ultimately feels restrained in its endeavor to reach new heights in both storytelling and excitement. The emotional arcs shine brightly, but the direction occasionally muddles the execution with a series of digressions that detract from the main adventure.

In conclusion, Chris Miller’s direction in Smurfs (2025) offers a visually engaging and nostalgic return to the Smurf universe, yet it misses opportunities to break away from conventions, resulting in a predictable and at times uneven viewing experience. While the film has its heartwarming moments and vibrant visuals, it ultimately stops short of elevating the brand to new storytelling heights, which is what fans and viewers might be hoping for.

Conclusion

Smurfs (2025) is an adventure that, while wrapped in nostalgia and colorful animations, often struggles in delivering a commanding narrative that resonates with audiences. The film centers on a heartwarming mission to save Papa Smurf, showcasing themes of friendship, identity, and loyalty that strike a chord, especially for younger viewers. However, the predictable plot and occasional sluggish pacing lessen the film’s overall impact, making it feel less groundbreaking amidst a sea of animated features.

The chilling voice performances from a talented cast, particularly Rihanna as Smurfette, add genuine charm and emotional depth, serving to elevate the characters even amidst an uneven execution. Beautifully rendered animation enchants the eye, delivering an aesthetically pleasing experience that brings the Smurfs' magical world to life, ultimately appealing to family audiences thoroughly.

Despite its shortcomings in humor and narrative momentum, the film carries a positive message about embracing one’s uniqueness and the significance of kindness, making it a fitting choice for family outings. However, for those seeking a more innovative and thrilling cinematic experience, Smurfs (2025) may fall short of expectations. In conclusion, while it is an agreeable film for fans and families, those in search of deeper humor or a standout storyline may need to look elsewhere for their animated fix.