The Smurfs set for cinemas

11-06-2008 13:30

The Smurfs are heading for the big screen.The small blue creatures are to feature in a movie based on the Belgian comic books where they were first seen.Producer Jordan Kerner said ideas for the film - a mixture of animation and live action - began during a holiday conversation with Sony Pictures Entertainment chairman-CEO Michael Lynton, who grew up watching 'Les Schtroumpfs' in the Netherlands. Jordan said: "He relished them as I do and suggested that it should be a live-action/CG film. Studio topper Amy Pascal felt equally that there was potentially a series of films in the making."The movie is to be a joint venture between Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures.Columbia co-president Doug Belgrad said. "The Smurfs are one of the best-known franchises, and among the most beloved collection of characters in the world"We're very excited to introduce a new generation to Papa Smurf, Smurfette and the other smurftastic Smurfs in all of their 'three-apple-tall' glory."