The Smurfs

The Smurfs Movie 2011When the evil wizard Gargamel chases the tiny blue Smurfs out of their village, they tumble from their magical world into New York City.

Starring:  Hank Azaria, Neil Patrick Harris, Jayma Mas, Sofia Vergara, and the voice talents of Jonathan Winters, Alan Cummings, Fred Armisen, Katy Perry, George Lopez, Anton Yelchin etc.

Rating:  PG

I just dare you not to walk around sing La La La La La La after reading this review. 

My family and I really enjoyed this movie.  It was a lot of fun to see these characters from my own youth be brought to life on the big screen.  The graphics were amazing.  The Smurfs were very realistic and the recreation of their village was surprisingly simple and yet charming at the same time.  The creators didn’t go over the top in cuteness in trying to recreate the Smurf homes so it almost felt like it would be totally reasonable to stumble upon this village in the forest. 

Of course, the real show stealer was Hank Azaria.  When I first became aware of Mr. Azaria as an actor, I have to be honest in saying that I found him to be annoying.  Of course, that just means what a great job he was doing.  Since then I have realized that this man wasn’t just a bit actor but a truly talented one.  His portrayal of Gargamel was bang on in my opinion while adding some fun and necessary humour to give the character an updated feel.

Having said all that, this movie is rated PG which is due mainly to mild rude humour and action.  Considering the action is no greater, in fact far less, than let’s say the Road Runner I don’t think it’s much of a concern.

It does make a number of mild jokes that very concerned parents might not like their children to be exposed to although it certainly went over my kids heads.  For example:  one Smurf stands over a furnace vent and the Smurf says the blast of air feels nice on his giblets.

It does contain magic and sorcery and Gargamel is obsessed with sucking out the Smurf’s essence.  Still, I didn’t have a problem letting my four year old watch this movie and everyone really seemed to enjoy it.

Have you seen the Smurfs? What did you think?

Buy Smurfs now on DVD or Blu-Ray in my Amazon Store.