As of today, February 21, 2025, “Smurfs” (2025) has not yet been released, so I can’t provide a review based on having seen it. The movie is scheduled to hit theaters on July 18, 2025, directed by Chris Miller and featuring a star-studded voice cast led by Rihanna as Smurfette, alongside Nick Offerman, Natasha Lyonne, JP Karliak, Dan Levy, and many others. It’s an animated musical adventure where Smurfette leads the Smurfs into the real world to rescue Papa Smurf from the evil wizards Razamel and Gargamel.

Since the film isn’t out yet, no full reviews exist, but there’s plenty of buzz based on available information. The trailer, which dropped earlier this month, shows off a vibrant, Peyo-inspired animation style and hints at a comedic, interdimensional romp with Rihanna’s original songs adding a musical flair. The premise—Smurfs venturing beyond their village to save their leader—echoes past entries but promises a fresh twist with its all-star cast and musical elements.

Expectations are mixed. Some fans are excited for a return to form after the uneven reception of prior Smurfs films, like the live-action hybrids (2011, 2013) and “Smurfs: The Lost Village” (2017), which got middling reviews but was seen as a step up. Others are skeptical, given the franchise’s track record of leaning hard into kid-friendly silliness over depth—think lowest-common-denominator gags that might not hold up for adults. The talent involved, from Miller (who co-directed “Puss in Boots”) to Pam Brady’s script (with her “South Park” pedigree), suggests it could punch above its weight, but the real-world setting might feel like a retread to critics who’ve seen this formula before.

I’ll hold off on a definitive take until it’s out. For now, it looks like a colorful, potentially fun family flick with big names and catchy tunes—whether it’ll be a smurftastic hit or a smurfing mess is anyone’s guess. Check back after July for a proper review!