The Smurfs are back and this time they are on a journey to find more of their kind, hence the title The Lost Village. This flick is unrelated to the last two live action/animated films and that’s what makes it even more interesting and acceptable. You get to know a lot about their kind such as that Smurfette is not a real Smurf, there are some things Clumsy is good at and that Gargamel is evil, no matter what!

The story revolves around Smurfette (voiced by Demi Lovato), the only girl in the tribe and her quest to know more about her origins. Despite a warning from leader of the Smurfs Papa Smurf (Mandy Patinkin), Hefty Smurf (Joe Manganiello), Clumsy Smurf (Jack McBrayer) and Brainy Smurf (Danny Pudi) accompany Smurfette through the Forbidden Forest, so that they can warn the inhabitants of Lost Village about Gargamel (Rainn Wilson) who wants to capture Smurfs at any cost.

They beat the bad guys (including a cat and vulture) after a struggle and reach the place first, but have to prove their intentions to the residents of the Lost Village — Smurf Storm (Michelle Rodriguez), Smurf Blossom (Ellie Kemper), Smurf Lily (Ariel Winter) and their leader Smurf Willow (Julia Roberts). And yes, just like there was no girl Smurf before Smurfette in Papa Smurf’s tribe, there is no guy Smurf in this new village. Interesting, isn’t it?

The Lost Village is one of the better animated flicks featuring The Smurfs, in fact it is far better than the other two versions that didn’t do well at the box office. The most interesting aspect of this movie besides the 3D technology is the way the major characters are portrayed. Clumsy is extremely true to his name and similarly, are the rest. They make new friends during their journey and that add colour to the already full of colours flick.

Smurfette’s origin is also of importance because it adds an interesting angle to the plot. Director Kelly Asbury must be commended for breathing life into a collapsed franchise and it is due to his commitment that such a wonderful reboot took place. For the fans of Smurfs, this is a must-watch flick because it will make you love your favourite characters more.

The movie is rated PG for some mild action and rude humour.

Published in Dawn, Young World April 22nd, 2017