It’s a big week for the Smurfiverse—and Rihanna fans. Paramount Pictures just released the official trailer and poster for The Smurfs Movie, giving us a first look at the upcoming animated reboot and teasing a brand-new song from Rihanna titled “Friend of Mine”, featured on the film’s soundtrack, which drops this Friday.
Set to hit theaters nationwide on July 18, 2025, The Smurfs Movie reimagines the beloved blue characters for a new generation—with music, magic, and a mission to save Papa Smurf.
Rihanna as Smurfette (and Your New Favorite Soundtrack)
In case you forgot, Rihanna isn’t just voicing the iconic Smurfette—she’s also producing the film and contributing original music. The trailer opens with her new track “Friend of Mine,” giving fans a taste of what’s to come on the official soundtrack.
The Plot: Smurfette to the Rescue
When Papa Smurf (voiced by John Goodman) is mysteriously kidnapped by dark wizards Razamel and Gargamel, it’s up to Smurfette (Rihanna) to lead the Smurfs into the real world to save him. Along the way, they team up with new allies and begin to unlock their destiny—because, apparently, the fate of the universe is at stake. No pressure.
A Voice Cast That Goes Deep
The cast is wildly stacked. In addition to Rihanna and Goodman, the voice ensemble includes James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Dan Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham, Alex Winter, Maya Erskine, Billie Lourd, Xolo Maridueña, Kurt Russell—and yes, even Marshmello.
Who’s Behind the Scenes?
The film is directed by Chris Miller (Puss in Boots, Shrek the Third) and co-directed by Matt Landon, from a screenplay by Pam Brady (South Park, Team America). It’s produced by Jay Brown, Ty Ty Smith, Robyn Rihanna Fenty, and Ryan Harris. Executive producers include Pete Chiappetta, Anthony Tittanegro, and Andrew Lary.
The story is based on the characters created by Belgian artist Pierre Culliford, better known as Peyo, whose work introduced the world to the Smurfs in 1958. While the franchise has seen several cinematic runs—including Sony’s 2011 live-action/CGI hybrid—this reboot marks a fresh start with a musical edge.
What’s Next?
Paramount and Nickelodeon Animation partnered with LAFIG Belgium and IMPS (now known as The Peyo Company) to breathe new life into the franchise. Véronique Culliford, daughter of Peyo and president of IMPS, has voiced her full support for the film, calling it a joyful continuation of her father’s legacy.
The Smurfs Movie opens in theaters on July 18, 2025, and with Rihanna leading the charge, this adventure is shaping up to be anything but small.