GAL APPROVED: The Smurfs – A New Adventure!

By Krystal Clear Whyms | July 28, 2011 | Entertainment, Gal Approved

If you were born before 1990, then it’s likely you’ve woken up on a Saturday morning and watched The Smurfs as part of a morning cartoon line-up. Quick lesson: Smurfs are hand-sized blue creatures that live in an enchanted forest, use the word “smurf” as a replacement for any word in their vocabulary and sing the same song in different variations all day long. Imagine putting the little beings into the chaotic environment of New York City! That’s exactly what happens in the new motion picture The Smurfs.

All is well in the enchanted forest, which is the home of 100 Smurfs whom are named after their characteristics and share one parent, Papa Smurf. The only worry shared among them is the fear of being captured by a power hungry wizard named Gargamel, whose sole purpose is to harness Smurf essence and have access to unlimited magical powers. The Smurfs are usually able to elude him, until the well-meaning but accident prone Clumsy Smurf leads Gargamel to Smurf village. As they try to escape their evil foe, Papa Smurf, Grouchy Smurf, Brainy Smurf and Smurfette (the only female Smurf) end up being sucked through a waterfall vortex which takes them to the strange and mysterious land: New York City.

The Smurfs take refuge with a white collar worker named Patrick (played by Neil Patrick Harris), who helps them navigate through the Big Apple while Papa Smurf searches for the items needed to cast a spell to take the Smurfs back to their home. I won’t reveal what happens after that, but the new film does answer a few questions that one may have had about some of the characters while watching the show back in the day. We finally get an explanation of why there’s only one female Smurf!

The Smurfs is a lighthearted comedy that will be enjoyed by children and their parents. The 3D version will make children feel like they’re on an adventure with the Smurfs, while the humor is funny enough to appeal to adults. Parents will also appreciate the voice talents, which include singer Katy Perry (Smurfette) and comedian George Lopez (Grouchy Smurf), as well as Joan Rivers and Tim Gunn cameos. This movie is truly a must-see for Smurf lovers, and the lovable blue creatures will surely make some new fans. Opens in theaters nationwide today.