Sony has staked out a release date for a sequel to The Smurfs.  The live-action/CGI hybrid has been one of this summer’s big surprises—it has earned more than the much pricier Cowboys & Aliens, which debuted on the same day (see “Ambushed by the Smurfs”). Sony has set a date of August 2nd, 2013 for the debut of The Smurfs sequel. 

 

The Smurfs movie, which stars Neil Patrick Harris, has earned $135 million worldwide so far.  According to The Hollywood Reporter Jordan Kerner will return in his role as producer of the film, but there is no word yet on whether any members of the live-action cast will be back for the sequel.

 

The sequel should be good news for Papercutz, which is publishing new editions of the classic Smurfs graphic novels (see “Smurfs Graphic Novels Return”).