Latest news with #Smurf
Western Telegraph
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
5 things to do with your family during the summer holidays
With so many things to see and do across the UK, you are never short of options. However, some of these activities can come at a cost to families. If you are looking for things to do with the children throughout the summer holidays that won't break the bank, here are some ideas. Top 5 fun and affordable activities for kids Summer holiday activities for families Go to the cinema If you want to see some of the latest films to hit the big screen - including How To Train Your Dragon, Smurfs and The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Family Pass offers up to 30% off at cinemas including: Cineworld Odeon Empire Cinemas The 30% discount also applies to snacks. This Smurf has his ticket! Have you got yours? 👀 See #Smurfs at Cineworld this Friday! 💙 Adults pay kids' prices with our Cineworld Family ticket! 🎟 — Cineworld (@cineworld) July 16, 2025 Visit movie and TV filming locations If watching a movie or TV show isn't enough, Experience Days offers day trips to various sites across the UK used in films and TV shows, including: Harry Potter Mary Poppins Returns Paddington Bear Doctor Who Gavin & Stacey Emmerdale The Experience Days website reads: "These movie tours and TV themed tours are a perfect day out for film fans - we offer a range of fascinating tours that will give you a behind-the-scenes look at some of your favourite movies and TV shows. "With movie tours available throughout the UK, and a fantastic selection of bus and walking tours from some of the most popular films and tv shows in Britain, you are sure to find the perfect tour for the film buff in your life." Enjoy a meal out Fancy a break from cooking these summer holidays? Family Pass has you covered, offering 25% off at various restaurants when you dine out. Fancy eating out these summer holidays? Family Pass has you covered with 25% off at various restaurants. (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) The discount includes restaurants like: Sizzling Pub and Grill Hard Rock Cafe Bar Buritto Outdoor adventures The warm summer weather means it's the perfect time to head outdoors. So why not take a trip to Go Ape these holidays, where you and the kids can take part in a range of activities, including: Treetop adventures Segways Zip Line Archery Mini Land Rovers Net adventures Axe throwing Go Ape has more than 35 sites spread across the UK, meaning there is likely a location near you. To help you save money, there is a range of offers available through Go Ape. These offers include: 15% off Treetop challenge using discount code FAMILY15 at checkout. at checkout. Free adult on Net Adventure with every child under the age of six. 10% student discount via Student Beans. You can find out more about these offers and others via the Go Ape website. RECOMMENDED READING: Tree house stays Looking to escape and spend some time away with the family? Why not try a stay at one of the "state of the art", "luxury" tree houses on offer through Experience Days. Its website reads: "Combining a natural, rustic feel with top of the range comfort, these beautifully crafted tree houses have been built to impress. "You will experience unparalleled peace and solitude as you retreat to your treetop lodge, making this experience ideal for those looking for a relaxing UK holiday, or even the most incredible unique experience gift you can think of!" There are tree house stays available in Snowdonia, Bristol and Welshpool.
Metro
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
'Worst film ever' ripped apart by critics in one-star reviews
A movie freshly released into cinemas on Friday, ready to take advantage of summer blockbuster audiences, has been savaged by critics as one of the worst films they've ever seen. The family film has attracted a wave of one-star reviews deriding it as 'punishing', 'painfully sentimental' and 'kryptonite to comedy and entertainment'. Smurfs, which has rested most of most of its marketing on solely on music superstar and billionaire entrepreneur Rihanna's involvement, has been in cinemas worldwide for less than two full days. And while fan reaction has started to trickle in during opening weekend with a seemingly pretty positive marker of 64% on review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, professional critics have been far less kind, putting it at 21%. And those who hated Smurfs, really, really hated it, with several outlets awarding it the lowest rating possible. This is despite Paramount Pictures best efforts, casting Rihanna as Smurfette and backing her up with a star-studded wealth of vocal talent from the likes of John Goodman, Nick Offerman, Kurt Russell, Sandra Oh, Octavia Spencer, Natasha Lyonne, Jimmy Kimmel, Nick Kroll, Hannah Waddingham and James Corden. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Based on the Belgian comic book series created in 1958, this is the characters' sixth feature-length film, billed as a musical fantasy comedy and following a Smurf in the village called No Name (Corden) as he has an identity crisis over his hopes to become a magician – before disaster, in multiple dimensions, ensues as Papa Smurf (Goodman) is kidnapped. 'One of the worst films I've ever seen,' The Telegraph's Robbie Collin declared in his one-star review, where he also called it 'a colossal pile of 'Smurf'' and asked: 'Will it keep the kids quiet for an hour and a half? Probably not, though it is loud enough that you won't be able to hear them complain.' Johnny Oleksinski for The New York Post was even less impressed, awarding the film zero out of four stars according to Rotten Tomatoes and confidently describing it as 'one of the worst movies you'll see all year'. 'I have just endured a film in which an army of little creatures cruelly tortures humans. No, not Gremlins. That's a good movie. It was Smurfs. And the punished human was me. I Smurf-ing loathed it,' he griped. Discussing the film's music, which includes an original song from Rihanna, Friend of Mine, he added: 'The interminable dirge boasts such inspired lyrics as 'Does happy ever after really ever happen?'. Answer: Not for anyone unlucky enough to have bought a ticket to Smurfs.' In Empire's one-star review John Nugent described Smurfs as 'a tedious series, with more than a whiff of corporate mandate about it' and also questioned if any fans of the Smurfs actually still existed. For The Times, another one-starrer, Kevin Maher sounded beyond fed up as he called Smurfs 'profoundly, oppressively empty' and added: 'There's no reason to see it.' 'This Smurfs might just be the worst of the lot, because it's simultaneously derivative and so crammed with new Smurfs lore that it may make you yearn for the comparatively humble hijinks of Marvel's multiverse,' complained The Independent's Clarisse Loughrey in what was – you guessed it -yet another minimum-marks review. While The Guardian's Peter Bradshaw might have been a smidgen more generous by awarding the animated flick two stars, he sounded equally unimpressed in his comments about the 'laborious slice of content'. 'For me, this film shows yet again that there is something about the Smurfs, those little Belgian creatures with blue skin and floppy-protuberant hats, which is basically kryptonite to comedy and entertainment,' he wrote. Film Authority's review had an imaginative way of describing its (1/5) displeasure with the film, sniping: 'Chris Miller's Smurfs literally smurfs its pants over and over again, it's lazy, derivative and painfully sentimental.' Produced for a reported budget of $58million (£43.2m) before marketing costs, its opening weekend is set for a distinctly underwhelming $12m (£8.9m), according to Deadline. Discussing his collaboration with Rihanna for the movie, director Chris Miller told Metro she was 'invaluable'. Alongside her 'great' vocal performance, Miller revealed they were 'hyper focused' with the 37-year-old star on bringing a new look to Smurfette. 'We spent a long time – about a year, actually – even going through different hair styles and even slight subtle costume changes and little things. More Trending 'We really, really, really pushed it to places that it was like, 'We can't, this is not going to happen.' We went almost full circle back to those original Peyo designs with some slight modifications, and felt really good about it. 'With Rihanna, it's like showing her art and really just getting her to react. She was invaluable in that way.' Smurfs is in cinemas now. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: I Know What You Did Last Summer star left sobbing over original actor's 'iconic' return MORE: Clueless director blasts 'nonsense' incest plot complaints 30 years after release MORE: Star of 90s horror reboot wanted to go 'all gas' on gore in new film
South Wales Guardian
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Guardian
5 things to do with your family during the summer holidays
With so many things to see and do across the UK, you are never short of options. However, some of these activities can come at a cost to families. If you are looking for things to do with the children throughout the summer holidays that won't break the bank, here are some ideas. If you want to see some of the latest films to hit the big screen - including How To Train Your Dragon, Smurfs and The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Family Pass offers up to 30% off at cinemas including: The 30% discount also applies to snacks. This Smurf has his ticket! Have you got yours? 👀 See #Smurfs at Cineworld this Friday! 💙 Adults pay kids' prices with our Cineworld Family ticket! 🎟 If watching a movie or TV show isn't enough, Experience Days offers day trips to various sites across the UK used in films and TV shows, including: The Experience Days website reads: "These movie tours and TV themed tours are a perfect day out for film fans - we offer a range of fascinating tours that will give you a behind-the-scenes look at some of your favourite movies and TV shows. "With movie tours available throughout the UK, and a fantastic selection of bus and walking tours from some of the most popular films and tv shows in Britain, you are sure to find the perfect tour for the film buff in your life." Fancy a break from cooking these summer holidays? Family Pass has you covered, offering 25% off at various restaurants when you dine out. Fancy eating out these summer holidays? Family Pass has you covered with 25% off at various restaurants. (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) The discount includes restaurants like: The warm summer weather means it's the perfect time to head outdoors. So why not take a trip to Go Ape these holidays, where you and the kids can take part in a range of activities, including: Go Ape has more than 35 sites spread across the UK, meaning there is likely a location near you. A post shared by Go Ape (@goapetribe) To help you save money, there is a range of offers available through Go Ape. These offers include: You can find out more about these offers and others via the Go Ape website. RECOMMENDED READING: All the school holidays and term dates for UK schools in 2025 The best all-inclusive holidays you can get from UK airports this summer Vrbo reveals UK's best holiday homes in 2025 for an 'unforgettable' staycation I stayed in an off grid cabin and it's the most relaxing holiday I've ever been on Looking to escape and spend some time away with the family? Why not try a stay at one of the "state of the art", "luxury" tree houses on offer through Experience Days. Its website reads: "Combining a natural, rustic feel with top of the range comfort, these beautifully crafted tree houses have been built to impress. "You will experience unparalleled peace and solitude as you retreat to your treetop lodge, making this experience ideal for those looking for a relaxing UK holiday, or even the most incredible unique experience gift you can think of!" There are tree house stays available in Snowdonia, Bristol and Welshpool.
South Wales Argus
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
5 things to do with your family during the summer holidays
With so many things to see and do across the UK, you are never short of options. However, some of these activities can come at a cost to families. If you are looking for things to do with the children throughout the summer holidays that won't break the bank, here are some ideas. Top 5 fun and affordable activities for kids Summer holiday activities for families Go to the cinema If you want to see some of the latest films to hit the big screen - including How To Train Your Dragon, Smurfs and The Fantastic Four: First Steps - Family Pass offers up to 30% off at cinemas including: Cineworld Odeon Empire Cinemas The 30% discount also applies to snacks. This Smurf has his ticket! Have you got yours? 👀 See #Smurfs at Cineworld this Friday! 💙 Adults pay kids' prices with our Cineworld Family ticket! 🎟 — Cineworld (@cineworld) July 16, 2025 Visit movie and TV filming locations If watching a movie or TV show isn't enough, Experience Days offers day trips to various sites across the UK used in films and TV shows, including: Harry Potter Mary Poppins Returns Paddington Bear Doctor Who Gavin & Stacey Emmerdale The Experience Days website reads: "These movie tours and TV themed tours are a perfect day out for film fans - we offer a range of fascinating tours that will give you a behind-the-scenes look at some of your favourite movies and TV shows. "With movie tours available throughout the UK, and a fantastic selection of bus and walking tours from some of the most popular films and tv shows in Britain, you are sure to find the perfect tour for the film buff in your life." Enjoy a meal out Fancy a break from cooking these summer holidays? Family Pass has you covered, offering 25% off at various restaurants when you dine out. Fancy eating out these summer holidays? Family Pass has you covered with 25% off at various restaurants. (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) The discount includes restaurants like: Sizzling Pub and Grill Hard Rock Cafe Bar Buritto Outdoor adventures The warm summer weather means it's the perfect time to head outdoors. So why not take a trip to Go Ape these holidays, where you and the kids can take part in a range of activities, including: Treetop adventures Segways Zip Line Archery Mini Land Rovers Net adventures Axe throwing Go Ape has more than 35 sites spread across the UK, meaning there is likely a location near you. To help you save money, there is a range of offers available through Go Ape. These offers include: 15% off Treetop challenge using discount code FAMILY15 at checkout. at checkout. Free adult on Net Adventure with every child under the age of six. 10% student discount via Student Beans. You can find out more about these offers and others via the Go Ape website. RECOMMENDED READING: Tree house stays Looking to escape and spend some time away with the family? Why not try a stay at one of the "state of the art", "luxury" tree houses on offer through Experience Days. Its website reads: "Combining a natural, rustic feel with top of the range comfort, these beautifully crafted tree houses have been built to impress. "You will experience unparalleled peace and solitude as you retreat to your treetop lodge, making this experience ideal for those looking for a relaxing UK holiday, or even the most incredible unique experience gift you can think of!" There are tree house stays available in Snowdonia, Bristol and Welshpool.
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
‘Smurfs' movie review: Rihanna leads a gentle giggle through action and song
A reviewer's work day is sometimes like Forrest Gump's box of chocolates — you never know what you are going to get. Going into the Smurf movie with zero expectations turned out to be a fun experience. The screaming and laughing children in the audience might have contributed to all-round glee. Smurfs (English) Director: Chris Miller Voice cast: Rihanna, James Corden, Nick Offerman, JP Karliak, Daniel Levy, Amy Sedaris, Natasha Lyonne, Sandra Oh, Jimmy Kimmel, Octavia Spencer Run time: 92 minutes Storyline: When Papa Smurf is kidnapped by evil wizards, Smurfette and gang swing to the rescue. Based on Belgian artist Peyo's comic books, Smurfs kicks off with a sweet SpongeBob SquarePants short, 'Order up', where SpongeBob rings the order bell at a diner so often as to drive Squidward round the bend. Then we are in the Smurf village where all the Smurfs are happy in their identities from Hefty (Alex Winter) and Vanity (Maya Erskine) to Brainy (Xolo Maridueña) and Clumsy (Hugo Miller). Only No Name (James Corden) has not found his 'thing' and so does not have a name. It does not matter how much Smurfette (Rihanna), the only female Smurf, and Papa Smurf (John Goodman), the village leader, try to reassure him that his time will come, No Name is sad to be the only Smurf in the village without a thing or a name. In another dimension, wicked intergalactic wizards, Asmodius (Octavia Spencer), Chernobog (Nick Kroll) and Jezebeth (Hannah Waddingham) are planning to leach all the goodness from the world and fill it with darkness. They have captured the three magic books and if they get the fourth, Jaunty (Amy Sedaris), then their evil plans will be complete. Wizard brothers, Gargamel and Razamel (JP Karliak) hope to get a seat at the high table by capturing Jaunty. They kidnap Papa Smurf to find out where the book is. As Papa is being teleported, he tells Smurfette and the others to find his brother Ken (Nick Offerman). Smurfette and gang land in Paris and head to the Australian outback to find and free Papa. All comes right in the end in psychedelic colours and bright bursts of song, including Punjabi music in 'Higher Love' by Desi Trill featuring DJ Khaled, Subhi, Cardi B, and Natania, and 'Balle Balouza' by Natania, Subhi & The Indian Connect. Smurfs has a psychedelic vibe, especially in the nine dimensions, giving a very multiverse feeling and that Parisian club the Smurfs go to is zingy fun. There are gentle laughs to be had with Razamel's video call with the other wizards, when he does not realise he is on mute and his long suffering 'hench-minion' Joel (Dan Levy) asking for a good review on LinkedIn as this is his first job. ALSO READ:The Smurfs - No fun at all Gargamel's cat, Azrael's expressions are a hoot. Poker Face's Natasha Lyonne has fun as the leader of the cake-mad strange beings called Snooterpoots while Sandra Oh is all dangerous posh as Moxie, the leader of the French underground. At 92 minutes, Smurfs whizzes by on a sea of dazzling colours, action and little jokes—enough to keep its very young target audience giggling and the accompanying grown-ups passively entertained. Smurfs is currently running in theatres
