Sony Pictures Animation will release an untitled animated Smurfs film globally on March 31, 2017.
The release is timed to take advantage of the family-friendly Easter window. The film marks a brand-new, fully animated take on the beloved blue creatures in Columbia’s Smurfs franchise, which has grossed over $900 million worldwide.
Commenting on the announcement, Rory Bruer, president of Worldwide Distribution for Sony Pictures, said, "With a fully animated feature close in tone and design to Peyo's original creation, we're embracing everything that have made the Smurfs so special for audiences worldwide. The date is a perfect match for this particular movie. With the kids on break, every day plays like summer, and for franchises with global appeal like the Smurfs, audiences are ready to turn out for great entertainment."
Directed by Kelly Asbury (Shrek 2, Gnomeo & Juliet), the untitled film is produced by Jordan Kerner (Charlotte’s Web, The Smurfs) and co-produced by Mary Ellen Bauder (Hotel Transylvania). The film's final title and new voice cast will be announced in the coming months.