The Smurfs are back—and this time, they’re louder, brighter, and surprisingly full of star power, thanks to none other than Rihanna, who lends her voice (and undeniable charisma) to this new animated reboot.
In what’s being dubbed as the Smurfs’ boldest revival yet, the film leans heavily into a modern aesthetic while still paying homage to the classic charm of Peyo’s original blue-skinned characters. Gone are the flat village antics of yesteryear; in their place is a high-energy, music-infused adventure that’s clearly aimed at Gen Z kids—and their nostalgic parents.
Rihanna as Smurfette: A Game-Changer
Rihanna’s portrayal of Smurfette isn’t just a celebrity cameo—it’s the beating heart of the film. She brings sass, strength, and soul to the iconic character, transforming Smurfette from a one-dimensional damsel into a fully realized heroine with attitude and edge. Whether she’s belting out a power ballad or leading the charge through a mushroom-fueled jungle, Rihanna’s presence is magnetic.
Visuals and Vibes
The animation is top-tier, with dazzling colors, slick design, and clever world-building that expands the Smurf universe beyond the cozy confines of Smurf Village. Expect neon-lit underground lairs, kaleidoscopic sky-butterfly rides, and even a dance-off that would make TikTok proud.
Story and Themes
Plot-wise, the story follows a familiar structure—evil forces (yes, Gargamel is back and bumbling as ever) threaten Smurf-kind, and it’s up to our blue heroes to save the day. But layered into the laughs are timely messages about identity, unity, and self-worth, especially through Smurfette’s journey of self-discovery.
Supporting Cast
While Rihanna takes center stage, the supporting cast—including voice roles by Awkwafina, Kenan Thompson, and a scene-stealing turn by Danny DeVito as a grumpy forest gnome—keeps the film brisk and full of personality. The script is peppered with clever jokes that work on multiple levels, offering enough wit to keep adults engaged while delighting younger viewers.
Verdict
This isn’t your parents’ Smurfs. It’s a bold reimagining with a pop-culture twist, anchored by Rihanna’s star power and a glossy new visual style. Some purists may find the changes a bit too flashy, but there’s no denying the film has energy and heart.
Musical Moments That Hit the Right Notes
One of the biggest surprises—and highlights—of the film is its soundtrack. With Rihanna at the helm, you’d expect music to play a major role, and it absolutely delivers. The songs range from catchy pop anthems to emotional ballads that actually deepen the narrative. There’s a scene where Smurfette sings about her place in the world, and it’s not just filler—it’s a genuine character moment that adds depth and relatability.
Rihanna’s vocals soar in a way that feels authentic to the character and her journey. The music isn’t just thrown in for fun—it’s woven into the emotional fabric of the story. Think Frozen meets Guardians of the Galaxy with a Smurf-blue twist.
Smurf World 2.0 – More Inclusive, More Diverse
Another noteworthy aspect of this reboot is its effort to modernize the Smurf universe for today’s audience. The village isn’t just a sea of identical blue male faces with one token female anymore. This time around, we meet a much more diverse group of Smurfs, including new characters with different talents, personalities, and even accents.
This inclusivity feels intentional without being forced, giving children from all walks of life someone to relate to. From the tech-savvy “HackSmurf” to the artistic “CanvasSmurf,” each new character is brought to life with care—and they all have meaningful roles to play.
A Villain You Love to Laugh At
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Smurfs movie without Gargamel, the comically evil wizard with a penchant for botched plans. Played to perfection (and a bit of camp) by an animated version voiced by Bill Hader, Gargamel is both a threat and a source of slapstick hilarity. His magical mishaps and talking cat sidekick, Azrael, provide a steady stream of laughs, especially for younger viewers.
This version of Gargamel is less menacing and more manic, which aligns well with the film’s energetic and fun tone. He’s not scary—he’s silly, and that’s exactly what works here.
Pacing, Humor & Parental Appeal
At just over 90 minutes, the movie moves fast. The pacing is tight, with just enough downtime to build emotional connections before launching into the next action or musical number. Parents won’t be checking their watches, and kids will be glued to the screen.
And yes—there are plenty of wink-wink jokes for adults that will fly right over the heads of younger viewers but add another layer of enjoyment. It’s a smartly crafted family film that respects its audience, regardless of age.
Final Thoughts: A Fresh Coat of Blue Paint
Reinventing a decades-old franchise is no easy task, especially one as iconic—and admittedly niche—as The Smurfs. But this reboot manages to strike a careful balance between nostalgia and innovation. It brings the charm of the original characters into a vibrant, tech-savvy, music-powered world that speaks to a whole new generation.
Most importantly, it’s fun. The kind of fun that’s infectious, light-hearted, and heartwarming all at once.
Final Verdict
If you’re a longtime Smurfs fan, prepare for a bit of a shock—but one that’s worth it. And if you’re new to the world of blue-skinned elves in floppy hats? You’re in for a treat.
Rihanna leads the charge with confidence, humor, and heart, redefining what a modern Smurfette can be. Backed by a diverse voice cast, dazzling visuals, and a killer soundtrack, this is one Smurfs movie that earns its place in the spotlight.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 out of 5 stars)
Vibrant, funny, and surprisingly soulful—Rihanna’s Smurfette is a reboot done right.