The Smurfs 2 - C-

Rated PG, 105 minutes

"Smurfs 2" fun for the kids but lacks originality or magic

The Smurfs

"The Smurfs 2," the sequel to the 2011 hit update of the animated series, should resonate with the very young set, peppered with some fun moments but otherwise lacking in genuine inspiration, not to mention the CG, much like the 2011 film (which inexplicably grossed $500 million worldwide), doesn't resemble the original cartoon. Gargamel (Hank Azaria), now a celebrity sorcerer, kidnaps Smurfette (Katy Perry) and takes her to Paris. Papa, Clumsy, Grouchy, and Vanity transport, using magical crystals, to the real world and seek their friends Patrick (Neil Patrick Harris) and Grace Winslow (Jayma Mays) and their son, Blue to help rescue Smurfette. Directed by Raja Gosnell from the 2011 film, the forgettable "The Smurfs" is charming and cute enough for the young set but the weak storytelling and lack of any originality will have the parents frequently looking at their watches. There are a couple of bright spots: Harris' interact with the little blue ones and the enjoyable Jonathan Winters, in last role, energetically voices Papa Smurf (and the film is dedicated to him), but still can't keep this from being a lame, mediocre effort at best. If only the other cast members were as memorable. Katy Perry is a bland Smurfette, and listen closely for the likes Christina Ricci, George Lopez, Fred Armisen, Mario Lopez, Alan Cumming and Anton Yelchin, all talented actors wasted under a forgettable script and Azaria's dreadful overacting. British character actor Brendan Gleeson (of some of the "Harry Potter" films) is a nice addition though he spends part of the movie as a duck. For what it is, the shoddy "The Smurfs 2" may be occasionally cute but it goes on way, way too long (105 minutes, really?) and takes much too long to resolve. Young kids under age 10 will still enjoy it but this can be one parents should drop the kids off at the theater or pay a babysitter to go see it with them. "Monsters University," "Despicable Me 2" and even the box-office bust "Turbo" are all better movies than this.

Wes's Grade: C-