The film received generally negative reviews from critics (Rotten Tomatoes score of 22%). Critics criticized the juvenile humor, the " toilet humor," and the unoriginal "fish-out-of-water" plot.

Despite critical panning, the film was a massive hit with family audiences. It grossed over $142 million in North America and over $421 million internationally. Its success greenlit a sequel, The Smurfs 2, released in 2013.

The Smurfs realize they need a "stargazer" (a telescope) to predict the next Blue Moon, which is their only way home. However, they have only a limited time before the moon passes.

Produced by Sony Pictures Imageworks, the CGI for the Smurfs was designed to be high-definition and textural.