The newSmurfsfilm might boast a star-studded cast led by Rihanna, James Corden, andJohn Goodman, but it appears that critics are not smurfing with the latest reboot. While the new animated musical tries to leverage the strength of its cast and its eye-popping visuals,Smurfsis being lambasted for another tonally messy ride to the Smurfs' village.
As of this writing,Smurfshas a 25% rating based on 32 critic reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. The low rating is not entirely shocking, as the previous live-action films have scored equally low, withThe SmurfsandThe Smurfs 2sporting 21% and 14%, respectively. Of course, the score for the 2025 film will likely continue to fluctuate throughout the week after its theatrical debut in theaters. The Smurfs' fortunes could turn as families take their kids to the theaters, possibly contributing to a higher-than-average audience score. However, all signs point to another disappointing take on the Smurfs, which at least sounds like a unique entry in the franchise.
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Unlike previous films,Smurfsis a full-blown musical that seeks to take advantage of Rihanna’s vocal talents. After voicing the lead in 2015’sHome, the former popstar has found a big movie property to build on. Although early returns suggest thatSmurfsmight not take off and release sequels, the animated film has some fans. MovieWeb’sown reviewleans on the more positive side of theSmurfsdebate. It may not be a totally even journey, but according to Julian Roman, the film features some breathtaking visuals, trippy musical elements, and a story that takes advantage of the fantastical lore.
The beautifully animated film takes a deep dive into previously unknown Smurfs lore, revealing that the lovable blue forest-dwellers are actually ancient “guardianeers” of good in the universe who have been tasked with protecting powerful magic from a cabal of evil wizards. This opens the door for a globe-trotting, dimension-hopping adventure that adds a plethora of new child-friendly characters. The story is definitely too detailed, but it’s also loads of trippy fun — you get the feeling that the filmmakersmight have eaten a few Smurf mushroom houseswhile making the movie.
‘Smurfs’ Cast & Plot
Smurfswas directed by Chris Miller (Puss in Boots) based on a screenplay by Pam Brady (The Bubble). The creative crew is joined by a jam-packed voice cast that will surely have fans doing a double take at some names. The cast ofSmurfsfeatures Rihanna, James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, Billie Lourd, Xolo Maridueña, Kurt Russell and John Goodman. Check out the official plot synopsis:
“When Papa Smurf (John Goodman) is mysteriously taken by evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette (Rihanna) leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save him. With the help of new friends, the Smurfs must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe.”
Source:Rotten Tomatoes
Smurfshits theaters on July 01, 2025.
