Smurfs grappling with heroism versus self-doubt - "Exploring the Realm of 'The Smurfs': Balancing Superheroics and Inner Turmoil"
In the upcoming animated film "The Smurfs: The Big Movie," the beloved blue creatures are set for a new adventure that combines elements of superheroism, self-discovery, and family drama. Directed by Chris Miller, the film elevates the Smurfs to superheroes, with a visual style reminiscent of Peyo's original drawings.
The plot revolves around the Smurfs facing a threat from the evil wizards Gargamel and his brother Razamel, who are part of an alliance of four sorcerers aiming to eliminate all goodness. The story begins when Papa Smurf is kidnapped because he is hiding a powerful magical book. Smurfette, voiced by Rihanna, leads the Smurfs on a mission to rescue Papa Smurf and protect their village.
The movie introduces magical elements, including a sentient magic book that grants powers to one Smurf, contributing to a superhero-like narrative where special abilities are pivotal to the story. The Smurfs embark on a heroic quest to save their leader and their village, aligning with traditional superhero themes of saving the day.
However, the film also delves into themes of self-discovery and identity, as some characters struggle to find their place within their community. No-Name Smurf, for instance, is unhappy because he doesn't know what his role is, feeling worthless compared to other Smurfs who know their identities. Papa Smurf and the others try to boost No-Name Smurf's confidence and help him find his identity.
Gargamel, voiced by Rick Kavanian in the German version, is joined by his brother Razamel in this film. The film also features other stars such as actress Hannah Waddingham ("Ted Lasso") and late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. In the German version, singer Álvaro Soler lends his voice to the character of No Name Schlumpf.
The film also introduces a character named Ron, who is described as the greatest Smurf ever and has a messianic quality, resembling a Viking with a golden mane and a sense of divine purpose. The Smurfs' greatest enemy remains the evil sorcerer Gargamel and his wicked cat.
"The Smurfs: The Big Movie" is expected to feature familial surprises, with the Smurfs revealed to be guardians of the universe, a nod to the film series "Guardians of the Galaxy." The film's soundtrack includes Rihanna's music, and the film retains a visual style close to Peyo's drawings, with lovingly designed Smurf houses, colorful flowers, and glitter.
The film also includes a scene where some Smurfs end up on a meadow near a Munich highway, with an Alpine view, and clumsily portrayed Bavarians in Lederhosen are celebrating a festival. Despite the lack of specific details about the "Ochsschlumpf" character, the film promises an exciting and engaging story for audiences of all ages.
In the $2-billion-grossing "Guardians of the Galaxy" film series, diverse characters band together to protect the universe from threats, much like the Smurfs do in "The Smurfs: The Big Movie", set to start on July 17 in Germany's cinemas, aligning with the entertainment realm of movies-and-tv. The upcoming Smurfs film, with its superhero narrative and themes of self-doubt and identity, exemplifies the broad spectrum of the entertainment industry today.
