Raja Gosnell is set to direct Sony Pictures' upcoming "Smurfs," a big-screen version of the well-known comics and TV series, according to Variety.
The film will be a blend of CG and live-action, and a release in 3D and 2D is set for Dec. 17, 2010. J. David Stem and David N. Weiss wrote the script, with Audrey Wells doing a light rewrite.
The Smurfs were created by Belgian cartoonist Pierre Culliford (Peyo) in 1958. They are little blue-skinned creatures who live in a small village and are at war with the evil Gargamel.
Gosnell's credits include "Home Alone 3," "Never Been Kissed" and most recently "Beverly Hills Chihuahua." He also directed the two aweful live-action/animated "Scooby-Doo" films.