When examining the blockbuster hits of this year, particularly “A Minecraft Film” and “Lilo & Sew,” it becomes evident that we are witnessing a remarkable trend where numerous parents are taking younger children to the cinemas. This surge indicates a current cinematic landscape dominated by PG-rated films. Historically, periods characterized by wholesome children’s content tend to cycle back into prominence. For instance, in 1990, the release of the first “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” film shocked Hollywood with an impressive opening weekend of $25 million—an astonishing figure at that time. This film ultimately ranked as the #4 box-office hit of the year, trailing behind the likes of “Ghost,” “Pretty Woman,” and “Home Alone.” Considering the ongoing challenges faced by the film industry, it is a welcome sign to find success in any form, even if it means catering to the rising demand for engaging content aimed at children.

As we look forward to 2025, it feels fitting that we are being introduced to the first Smurfs movie in eight years, aptly titled “Smurfs.” This title exudes a certain level of confidence, reminiscent of how the Beatles named their iconic album simply “The Beatles,” later dubbed the White Album. Perhaps it’s just that “Smurfs” is the latest installment I’ve experienced, and I’ve diligently watched all previous films in the series for your benefit, dear readers. Notably, this film is uniquely inspired by “Trolls,” the 2016 animated feature that stands out as one of the most innovative animated films of the past decade, showcasing the rich potential of storytelling through colorful characters and music.

Despite its ambitious premise, “Smurfs” falls short of the remarkable quality set by its predecessor. The primary reason for this shortcoming is straightforward: it’s a Smurfs movie. This branding carries inherent limitations that I will delve into shortly. However, it’s worth noting that “Smurfs,” like “Trolls” and its less successful sequel “Trolls World Tour,” is framed as a vibrant pop musical. This means we are treated to energetic EDM sequences featuring dance moves from various eras, along with an emotional anthem titled “Always on the Outside” reminiscent of the mid-period Electric Light Orchestra. The film boasts a star-studded cast, with Rihanna lending her voice to Smurfette, the only female Smurf, while also serving as a producer. Additionally, James Corden voices No Name Smurf, a character overflowing with anxiety, who struggles with his identity due to his lack of a name, similar to Justin Timberlake’s neurotic character Branch from “Trolls.” The narrative kicks off in Smurf Village, a magical realm whose location is quickly revealed by the villain, a twist that echoes themes in “Trolls,” and the plot unfolds as the characters traverse various locations, including portals, making this the first Smurfs film to navigate a multiverse.

At this juncture, you might be asking: Are we enjoying ourselves yet? More specifically, are we having as much fun as the average 8- or 9-year-old watching this film? The answer to that is a resounding no. The Smurfs, as any aficionado of Smurf lore can attest, originate from a Belgian comic series created by the cartoonist Peyo, which debuted in 1958. This rich history lends them an air of venerability and uniqueness. However, the experience of watching a Smurfs film reveals why the characters often come across as blandly derivative and uninspired.

Could this be attributed to the fact that each character resembles a mash-up of a hobbit, a Keebler Elf, Poppin’ Fresh, and one of Disney’s Seven Dwarfs, particularly Dopey? Their names also echo those of the Seven Dwarfs, with characters such as Brainy Smurf, Grouchy Smurf, Clumsy Smurf, Hefty Smurf, Worried Smurf, Quiet Smurf, Moxie Smurf, and Sound Effects Smurf. While these quirky trait-based names add a layer of charm, the Smurfs ultimately appear… indistinguishable. They represent variations of the same character archetype. The overarching theme of their narrative is the importance of teamwork; however, this uniformity renders the message feel like a sanitized interpretation of the Communist Manifesto, lacking the depth and complexity that could resonate with the audience.

Within the storyline, the Smurfs possess a magical book that is one of a set of four, reminiscent of the Infinity Stones in the Avengers films. If the villain, an evil sorcerer named Gargamel, succeeds in stealing it and gathering the entire collection, he will gain dominion over the universe. Gargamel is voiced by JP Karliak, portraying a flamboyantly villainous British wizard who seems to echo a more charismatic children’s villain, Cedric the Sorcerer from the beloved Disney animated series “Sofia the First.” Gargamel’s brother, Razamel, also voiced by Karliak, presents an even more exaggerated version of this effete stereotype. Contrasting with them are three grizzled elder Smurf leaders: the white-bearded Papa Smurf, voiced by John Goodman, who becomes a captive of Gargamel, along with his brother Ken, portrayed by Nick Offerman, and their long-lost sibling Ron, who boasts platinum hair, voiced exuberantly by Kurt Russell.

As the Smurfs venture beyond their village, they find themselves in visually stunning settings, such as the breathtaking Australian Outback and a stretch of the Autobahn outside Munich, featuring a whimsical castle in the midst of the action. One memorable scene transports the Smurfs to the land of the Snooterpoots, a tribe of whimsical furballs led by the fierce Mama Poot, voiced by Natasha Lyonne, who delivers a performance full of chaotic energy. The film also features a delightful sequence where the Smurfs are presented in a variety of artistic styles, including Claymation, sketchbook illustrations, anime warriors, and characters reminiscent of classic 1980s video games. This innovative approach adds a layer of excitement to the viewing experience! Additionally, the film includes amusing moments, such as the line, “I think I just Smurfed my pants!” While “Smurfs” may serve as a friendly distraction for young audiences, its overarching narrative of the blue McDwarfs as “guardians of good” underscores a deeper issue: the film often feels like it prioritizes the innocuous over genuine depth and meaning.