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Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Smurfs' Review: The Once-Iconic Blue Menaces Are Trapped in Charmless, Generic Animated Feature
Should you head to the theaters to see 'Smurfs,' you'll get the pleasure of watching a fun, charming, and mercifully brief adaptation of a beloved cartoon. It's called 'SpongeBob: Order Up,' and it's the two-minute short that Paramount has packaged before the actual movie. Watching it, it's hard not to consider the fact that the vast majority of children brought by parents are probably way more familiar with Spongebob and Squidward than they are with the colony of blue elf things leading the package's feature presentation. That's not to say that the Smurfs are old relics, exactly — since their 1958 debut as the comic creations of Belgian cartoonist Poyo, they've managed to stick around and endure in pop culture, crossing over to America thanks to the popular Hanna-Barbera animated series that was a fixture of NBC's kiddie programming during the '80s. The franchise's concept is weird enough — imagining a tiny village populated by identical creatures of widely varying personalities — to stick in the mind, and the character designs simple and iconic enough to slap on a cereal box or a Hot Topic tee. More from IndieWire 'KPop Demon Hunters' Built a Soundtrack to Slay Global Pop Charts 'Black Swan' Dances Back Into Theaters for IMAX Anniversary Screenings Not for nothing, there's a Belgian animated adaptation of the series that's airing on Nickelodeon right now. But the low quality of Hollywood attempts to launch the franchise into the film world — the shrill live-action/animated hybrid movies released in 2011 and 2013, an instantly forgotten animated feature released in 2017 — begs the question: Even if a lot of people know of the Smurfs, are there many people who particularly care about them? Regardless of the answer to that question, Paramount's new attempt to turn them into movie stars doesn't seem likely to add to the ranks of the Smurfs standom. A resolutely safe, profoundly boring first draft of an animated kids movie, 'Smurfs' only succeeds at making the quaintly formulaic old Hanna-Barbera cartoon — a B-tier effort from the studio at best, compared to 'Scooby Doo' and 'The Flintstones' — look practically artful in comparison. At least that animated series had a sense of whimsy that can be found charming, something this cravenly generic product wholly lacks. Starting on a torturous dance party intro straight out of a mid-2000s DreamWorks film, 'Smurfs' introduces us to the cast of Smurfs leading the film, only three of whom remotely impact the plot in any way. There's the token girl Smurfette, jarringly voiced by a too-cool-for-this Rihanna, who produced this movie and contributed the middling end-credits song. There's wise Papa Smurf (John Goodman), who gets kidnapped early on by Razamel, the even more sinister brother of the Smurfs' main rival Gargamel (both are played by JP Karliak, giving the only slightly memorable vocal performance on offer). And there's the closest thing to a real lead, original character No Name, played by James Corden, a casting choice that feels about six or seven years out of date. No Name's central foible is an obvious, pat one for the world of Smurf Village, a civilization where everyone is named after their talent or quirk or 'thing,' as Papa describes it. No Name has grown up without finding his 'thing,' and feels left out in his community. It's a stock plotline for a kids film (Disney's 'Encanto' springs to mind as the most obvious comparison), but one that can work with deft writing. Remarkably though, 'Smurfs' seems absolutely determined to minimize No Name's arc, the one potential source of real drama or emotional stakes on offer in the ensuing journey from the Smurfs to find Papa and save the world. He isn't treated any differently by the other Smurfs aside from some light encouragement from Smurfette — whose entire role is to play his personal cheerleader, which is still better than the background character with an occasional one-liner treatment that befouls the other villagers — and early on his identity crisis is resolved when he seemingly discovers he's the only Smurf who can use magic. Some minor hemming and hawing over whether he's good enough to save the day aside, that tension of not having an identity gets shoved to the side, and when 'Smurfs' half-heartedly circles back to it at the end, the film hand-waves it away with possibly the most generic and noncommittal 'power of heart' moral ever put to screen. So without any real characters to care about or storylines to actually invest in, 'Smurfs' plugs along with one of the more vapid and frictionless screenplays in recent cinematic memory. It's credited to Pam Brady, who's best known for adult animated projects like 'South Park' or the recent Prime animated series '#1 Happy Family USA,' but has also done some work-for-hire kids projects in the past few years — she was one of three writers on 2023's already forgotten 'Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken' and co-wrote an upcoming 'SpongeBob' film. Nothing on screen reflects any of her wit and personality, instead coasting along on dull slapstick, boring one-liners, and pop culture references that range from bizarre (a Smurf agent voiced by Nick Offerman tells a weird troll thing voiced by Natasha Lyonne he was once in a relationship with that they'll 'always have Paris') to fishing desperately to modernize the franchise (Dan Levy voices an intern of Ramazel that begs the Smurfs to give him a good Linkedln rating, and there's an extended bit about the joys of rideshare food delivery). At 90 minutes, 'Smurfs' somehow still feels too long, blatantly stalling for time with long pointless chase sequences and diversions rather than hurrying up its extremely barebones rescue mission plot: There's no less than two poorly integrated musical numbers that are so out of place in the film they have a jumpscare effect. The adventure isn't particularly anything to look at, either. 'Smurfs' was directed by Chris Miller, who previously directed 'Puss in Boots' for DreamWorks, but aesthetically, the film shares more in common with its 2021 sequel 'The Last Wish,' which drew praise for its stylish blend of 3D and 2D animation upon release. 'Smurfs' goes for a similar approach, and in the process underscores how this more exaggerated animation style, which felt so fresh and unique when popularized by 'Into the Spider-Verse' in 2018, has now become enough of an industry norm that heartless franchise extensions can mimic it. In theory, the film's vision is inspired, aiming to resemble a page from Poyo's original comics come to life. The characters are 3D, but with exaggerated cartoon facial features. Effects around them — a stream of water, a blast of magic, a foggy cloud — are 2D, and their environments are shaded and colored to look like the setting of a comic. Occasionally, this results in a decent shot or two — the inside of Razamel's castle can be fun to look at. There also comes occasional times where the cast bursts out a thought bubble, though it's used as a sparing gimmick rather than a strong creative choice. By and large though, the film just looks cheap. It can't figure out a way to integrate the characters into the world seamlessly, and the overall effect of the aesthetic often misses the mark, resembling the graphics of a cel-shaded video game made in 2003 (not for nothing, 'The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker' looks significantly better than 'Smurfs.') Other attempts to play with form land poorly — although the film is about 80 percent animated, the modern human world the cast briefly ventures into is live-action, a choice that's less fun and more confusing (why are Joel and Razamel animated then?). A brief sequence that shifts between different animation styles has novelty but proves mostly lazy in its imagination, including an anime pastiche that's about 20 years out of date. What exactly would a good, or even decent Smurfs film look like? Most of the franchise's appeal has come from its relatively folksy, low-stakes tone; the original animated series told short comedic tales about life in Smurf village, often only with the bumbling Gargamel as a real antagonist. And it managed to craft a decently fleshed out ensemble cast in the process, with standouts like the self-aggrandizing Brainy or the kindhearted Clumsy. 'Smurfs' ups the stakes appropriately for film — though never enough, as Razamel doesn't really take off as a compelling villain — but in the process, loses sight of the villagers entirely. Somehow, in a movie about finding your niche, the Smurfs are more generic and indistinguishable than ever. Grade: D Paramount Pictures will release 'Smurfs' in theaters on Friday, July 18. Want to stay up to date on IndieWire's film and critical thoughts? to our newly launched newsletter, In Review by David Ehrlich, in which our Chief Film Critic and Head Reviews Editor rounds up the best new reviews and streaming picks along with some exclusive musings — all only available to subscribers. Best of IndieWire The 25 Best Alfred Hitchcock Movies, Ranked Every IndieWire TV Review from 2020, Ranked by Grade from Best to Worst Solve the daily Crossword
Buzz Feed
21-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
34 Happy And Bright Summer Fashion Pieces
A Lululemon-inspired longline sports bra you can wear for your next morning workout class, grocery run, or *even* your "let me rot all day in bed" moment. It's supportive, not too compressive, and lightweight, so it'll be delightful in warmer weather. A spaghetti strap romper that's so effortlessly cute, you'll want to live in it all summer long. It's got that perfectly loose fit that still looks put-together, adjustable straps for the right amount of support, and (the best part) pockets. The lightweight fabric makes it ideal for sweltering hot days when anything else feels like too much. Just throw it on with sandals, sneakers, or literally no shoes at all — psst, I think it's perfect as a beach coverup! A well-constructed satin midi skirt with the same shine, look, and silhouette as pricier silk options but is sooo much more affordable. You'll be itching to strut your stuff in this whenever you get the chance because you can wear it on dressier or more casual occasions. A pair of high-waisted running shorts that look just like Lululemon without the super steep price tag. These are lightweight, breathable, and come with a deep zippered pocket so your phone won't end up flying across the floor mid-squat. The stretchy fabric moves with you, the tulip hem adds a cute 'lil flair, and the high-rise waistband is *chef's kiss*. Whether you're going on a hot girl walk or actually working out, these shorts are ready for the job. And a pair of cozy drawstring shorts so comfy, you'll consider canceling plans just to lounge in them. They have a soft, lightweight feel and stylish look. Plus, the elastic waistband won't dig into your skin, and the roomy pockets are big enough for your phone, keys, or a snack you're trying to sneak into the movie theater. A pair of ~dreamlux~ leggings that are the closest thing you'll get to Lululemon Align leggings without dropping major cash on them. They not only look the same, but they're also soft, comfy, *and* not see-through — which means you don't have to worry when you do a deep lunge at the gym. Reviewers also like these more than Lulus because they stay in good condition over time, the color doesn't fade, and they don't fall down when you're wearing them. A ribbed "Brami" tank that's redefining what it means to go braless and fool people doing it. This genius little top has a built-in padding (aka, no bra required) and stretchy ribbed fabric that hugs you without feeling restrictive. Whether you're pairing it with joggers for errands or jeans for a night out, it'll effortlessly elevate your style. A pair of '90s-themed Teva sandals with three different adjustability points so you can have the perfect fit around your foot before heading to the beach, lake, or river. The quick-drying webbing (made from recycled materials) means you can go right into the water without sounding like Squidward with every step afterwards. A floral wrap dress designed with pockets (yep, dreams do come true), so you can finally stop clutching your phone like it's a lifeline while strolling around town. The fabric's lightweight, breathable, and flowy enough to make you feel like the star of a coming-of-age movie — and comfy enough to wear on those sweltering summer days that are right around the corner. A Hanes sweatshirt that feels like a warm hug from your freshly laundered hoodie collection. This classic crewneck has that soft, just-right midweight feel, and comes in enough colors to match your best personal color analysis — IYKYK. A vintage-inspired bustier for your night-out wardrobe 'cause you + this = no bag angles when you start taking pics for Instagram. It's made with structured boning, a mesh bodice, and an open back that says "Yes, I did just step out of a fashion editorial." It'll pair flawlessly with jeans, skirts, or anything that deserves a little ~drama~. Bonus: reviewers say it stays up even when dancing! An oversized button-down shirt aka the new MVP of your wardrobe. It's lightweight, flowy, and juuust structured enough to look like you put in effort — even if you rolled out of bed like five minutes ago. Wear it open over a tank, buttoned up with jeans, or tossed on as a beach coverup when you're feeling Hamptons chic. It comes in a bunch of colors, doesn't wrinkle easily, and looks chic as heck! A sleeveless halter bodysuit that's sleek, supportive, and super soft — the ultimate trio, IMO. It's double-lined and holds everything in without a bra *and* reviewers compare it to Zara's and Skims' version. Wanna take a guess on which one is the most affordable? (Hint: It's this one.) A soft and stretchy tie-waist T-shirt dress with pockets (I repeat: pockets!!) so you can add something that's basically the epitome of summer in clothing form to your wardrobe. It's cute enough for brunch but *also* comfy enough to sleep in when the mimosas make you ready for a nap. A ruffled blouse ready to steal the show (and maybe a few hearts). With ruffly sleeves, a deep-V front, and an open back you can style to your liking, it's giving summery and kinda spicy. Reviewers say it's surprisingly supportive — even for the DDD peeps — and looks just as cute with high-waisted jeans as it does with a skirt. A lightweight mini belted pack you can wear as a crossbody or around your waist with your daily items safely secured inside — you'll be shocked by the amount of stuff it can fit! It'll be easier to find smaller items like your AirPods, chargers, and lip products since you won't have to dig around larger bags. And did I mention it looks just like Lululemon's version? A lightweight active skort so you can bend, stretch, and run errands without worrying about flashing the neighborhood. The moisture-wicking fabric keeps you cool, and the inner bike shorts come with pockets (!!) for your essentials. Whether you're hitting the pickleball court, going on a walk, or just vibing through your day, this skort's got you covered — literally. A smooth "smoke cloud" fabric square-neck top that's serving up Skims vibes for much less. It's double-lined, stretchy, and super chic. It looks super polished and feels very comfy, so don't be surprised if you wanna live in it all summer long. A "Caviar Dreams" button-down featuring a relaxed, oversized fit and a print that'll make you want to book a last-minute vacay to Europe. It's slightly sheer, super cool, and perfect for tossing over a bikini, pairing with linen pants, or wearing as a mini dress with sandals and a spritz in hand. A reversible vintage-inspired floral bathing suit so cute and comfy, it's basically a vacation essential. Each side has an elegant print, so you really can't go wrong deciding which one to show off. It has adjustable tie straps and offers full coverage so it's ready for beach naps or cliff hikes. A flowy low-back jumpsuit that was made for sipping rosé at summer soirées and twirling under string lights. The wide-leg cut adds drama and the breezy fabric brings all the beachy vibes. A high-ponytail running cap designed by women — and you can tell... It has a genius slot in the back so you can rock your ponytail high or low. It's lightweight, moisture-wicking, and offers UPF 50+ sun protection so you can stay cute and covered. It'll be a total game changer for runners, gym-goers, and anyone who's ever tried to stuff a ponytail through a regular cap. A ruffled floor-length gown that'll make you feel like you're the one saying "I do." The high waistline? Gorgeous. The thigh high slit? Fashionable as heck. The fabric? Light, airy, and floaty in a way that makes every photo look like a soft-focus rom-com scene. Reviewers say it's comfy, elegant, and perfect for taller people. A pair of comfy palazzo pants aka your new summer pant 'cause these have an elastic waistband and super flowy pant legs. You'll *especially* love these when it's hot out because your legs can still have room to breathe! An adjustable mini skater dress made out of incredibly soft jersey fabric that's breathable, flowy, and just so pretty to look at — I mean, just look at those designs... Not to mention the knot detail and pockets make it an absolute knock-out-of-the-park for summer dresses. A patterned button-down top that can do the accessorizing for you. The vibrant mix of colors makes it the perfect statement piece for summer. Just throw it on with jeans, white pants, or even cutoffs, and boom — you're effortlessly chic. A lightweight multicolor maxi dress made for any summer sunset photoshoot coming your way. The cowl neck is super stylish while the flowy pleated fabric moves like a dream — whether you're dancing at a wedding or just dramatically walking into a backyard BBQ, you'll be turning heads in the best way possible. A stylish strawberry beaded bag from Anthropologie that's ~berry~, berry cute. Its intricate bead design rivals the much pricier versions Staud offers, and it's a fraction of the price. This colorful shoulder bag is the perfect thing to hold your lip products, wallet, AirPods, and other summer essentials for the hot, sunny days ahead. A Farm Rio halter maxi dress that'll make you feel like you're on vacation when you slip it on. The vibrant tropical print, flowy silhouette, and neckline will have you serving with your shoulders out this summer. The combination of its lightweight, breathable viscose material and pockets makes it a dream-worthy purchase in my humble opinion. A set of "candy-colored" mirrored sunglasses to instantly level up any outfit. They're lightweight, protective against UV light rays, and have the ~funkiest~ vibe. What else do you need, really? A U-shaped neckline workout set so cute, you'll actually want to be seen running errands post-gym. The fabric is thick and stretchy, and the crop top is padded for extra comfort. Reviewers say it feels way more expensive than it is! A rainbow tennis bracelet that's like a boost of summer serotonin for your wrist. It adds the perfect pop of fun to your stack 'cause it's bold and bright. A pair of veryyyy comfy mesh sneakers so you can add some serious styling points to your 'fits thanks to their bright colors and cool design. Reviewers have worn them while hiking, running 5Ks, and even standing for up to 18 hours straight! A maxi dress with ruffled detailing, a slide slit, and stretchy fabric that's perfect for a last minute get up to weddings, formal dinners or any moment where you want to drop jaws — without dropping lots of cash, of course.
Buzz Feed
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
24 Beauty Products That Basically Blew People's Minds
A jar of E.l.f. poreless primer putty so you can kiss your pores buh-bye! This primer will help you get a super smooth canvas to put your foundation on and will have you looking like your makeup was professionally airbrushed while helping to keep your beat in place. Say sayonara to your oily makeup looks and say heyyyy to a matte look. Olaplex No. 3 hair perfector, which is TOTALLY worth it if your hair is broken or damaged. This bad boy strengthens and protects your hair from within and reduces breakage so your split ends can't stop you from feeling ~FAB~. Orrr a bottle of the TikTok-famous Elizavecca hair treatment that contains ceramides and collagen to help give your hair shine and make it smooth in just five minutes. This stuff is *chef's kiss*. A bottle of Paula's Choice Salicylic Acid Exfoliant to unclog and diminish large pores. This leave-on, fragrance-free exfoliant is gentle enough for all skin types and exfoliates dead skin cells, leaving you looking fresh and hydrated. Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer with a sponge on the end for covering dark circles with ease. You'll look well-rested and refreshed even on days that aren't. Nobody will even be able to tell! A Dior Lip Glow Oil for dreamy lips that don't feel sticky or greasy. This stuff reacts to the moisture level in your lips to give you a custom-colored shiny pout AND constant moisture. An exfoliating scrub mitt to scrub-a-dub-dub that dead skin off. It'll seriously look like you shed a layer like a chameleon by the time this thing is done removing any self tanner, old skin, and whatever else could be caked on. Plus, your skin will be soooo smooth. Like, baby butt smooth. A gorgeous Juvia's Place bronzer duo that'll give you a beautifully blended contour. So good, people *maaaay* just ask you if you've gone to Dr. Miami to get your cheeks done. An angled, chiseled face. Like handsome Squidward but like, less creepy looking. A Kiss falscara lash kit for some DIY lashes at home for waaaay less money 🤑. Plus, it'll be way less time consuming. This kit comes with 10 little lash pieces, an applicator, and a mascara-like bond and glue. STUNNING lashes that everyone will think you paid hundreds for, right from the comfort of home. Orrrr if fake lashes aren't your thing, try Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High mascara so you can have the long, full lashes you've always dreamed of. Infused with bamboo extract, this ahhhmazing mascara will have your lashes reaching for the stars and soaring ~sky high~. A jaw-droppingly gorg Ghostface palette to create the most flawlessly stunning shadow looks. With 18 shades and amazing pigment, no need to *call me* and thank me for how much you looooove this palette. A plant-based dry shampoo made from fulvic acid and rice and tapioca powders that'll absorb all that oil, and it delivers over 65 minerals directly into your hair follicles. So, yes, you can skip wash night tonight if you need. A pack of 40 acne patches because a pimple is NOT ruining our day babe! These patches absorb all the gunk and speed up the pimple-healing process without picking or popping. Psh, what pimple? Bio-Oil, made with vitamins A and E, chamomile, and lavender to help moisturize skin, minimize stretch marks and fade scars, both old and new, WITH TIME. Although this isn't an overnight miracle, sticking with this oil can get you shocking results. A Rare Beauty liquid blush by our girl, our fave wizard, Selena Gomez, available in both matte and dewy finish! A little goes a long way and this blush is beautifully pigmented. Like seriously, I think she made this on Waverly Place with her brothers cuz it's actually magic. A lip plumper from the Queen herself, Ms. Fenty Beauty, Rihanna. Everything she touches is a hit — music, lingerie, and definitely this lip plumper. This baby delivers a slight tint and a slight tingle to achieve full, plump, beautiful lips that'll be so juicy you could convince people you got a syringe of Juvederm. A daily facial spray that'll help balance your skin's pH and help minimize irritation, redness, and flare-ups. Formulated to mimic the makeup of our bodies, this bad boy delivers ✨hypochlorous acid✨ (no, it's not a spell for incredible skin), which is found naturally in white blood cells. A Nyx brow glue to keep your brows in place and help you achieve that fluffy, laminated look. No more sweating, then wondering where your eyebrows went — this bad boy will hold those brow hairs down exactly where you want 'em. A CeraVe Hydrating cleanser, a fragrance- and paraben-free facial wash that can be used daily to hydrate the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. It can be used on your face and body and removes makeup, dirt, and excess oil. A Denman hair brush designed with evenly-spaced bristles to detangle and shape your curls at the same time, cutting your styling time in half. Sounds like heaven, huh? Anything to cut down on the time that your arm has to be sore from brushing. A Glow Recipe toner, which contains a mixture of hyaluronic acid and tea tree extract to moisturize your skin and help even texture. It'll also give you an effortlessly glowy look so you can shine bright like a diamond always. Added bonus, it smells like watermelon! First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant that'll ever so gently help to eliminate any rough or bumpy skin that you've been trying to get rid of. People with keratosis pilaris are raving about this product and its smoothing powers. A facial ice roller you can throw in the fridge or freezer then use it to de-puff your puffy morning eyes. It also can help relieve migraines so, aha, win-win situation baby, am I right? Live Tinted Superhue Pigmentation Stick because you've been searching for a miracle to help with your dark spots and hyperpigmentation. It's packed with niacinamide, bakuchiol (basically a retinol alt), and THD vitamin C that'll help discoloration fade away and leave you dewy and glowing like a Krispy Kreme glazed donut. You, discovering the face roller after looking greasy all day: The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.
Scottish Sun
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
I took my family to the new Nickelodeon Land in Turkey with rides and character meets – here's how to get free entry
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WHO lives in a pineapple under the sea? Not SpongeBob SquarePants any more. The yellow cartoon character has a new home on Turkey's southern coast at the impressive Land Of Legends theme park. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 The fab new Nickelodeon Land in Turkey 5 Have endless fun at Antalya's Nickelodeon Hotel Credit: Supplied 5 Unwind in style at the Rixos Premium Belek Credit: Supplied He's brought along all his pals to its new Nickelodeon Land — and I was one of the first there to check them out. The themed area neighbours Adventure Land and the exotic Aqua Land in the vast entertainment complex in Antalya. Nickelodeon Land consists of three areas — the underwater Bikini Bottom from SpongeBob SquarePants; intergalactic Star Trek: Wild Galaxy, based on Star Trek: Prodigy; and the open-air Adventure Bay from PAW Patrol. And just steps away is a plush new Nickelodeon hotel, featuring 238 themed bedrooms and its own waterpark-like outdoor pool where you can get 'slimed' for real, Nickelodeon style. Sounds totally retro, right? There's a definite nod to the nostalgia of 90s Nickelodeon. Think Rugrats and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, as well as little ones' modern favourites, such as Chase from Paw Patrol, Dora The Explorer and Nickelodeon's cartoon reboot of Star Trek. I got stuck into the action at Bikini Bottom, my favourite area, which transports visitors to a neon, SpongeBob-themed underwater landscape. The standout attraction is the Fiery Fist O'Fun, a reference to a classic SpongeBob episode. The ride is like a ferris wheel on steroids, fast-paced enough to make your stomach drop — in the best way. But if that is not your style, take a spin on the Jellyfish Jam swings. New Nickelodeon land to open in Brit-loved holiday hotspot next year - with Paw Patrol rides and Spongebob attractions Or you can pootle around the land in overhead blimps, dubbed Sandy's Rockets. Plankton's Plunge is another must for thrill-seekers. As the name suggests, it drops you from a squeamishly scary height. Then there's the Crazy Carnival Ride, where you can battle against your family in a virtual shoot-out. Aside from the rides, my highlight had to be meeting the chipper yellow sponge himself. At various points in the day, each of the characters pop up for meet-and-greet sessions, so you can snap a picture with Squidward or pose with Patrick. Giant pineapple Meanwhile, Chase and the gang from Paw Patrol can be found hanging out at Adventure Bay, where rides are aimed at the littlest of adventurers. It's not just about the kids, though. There's plenty of spaces that even Mum and Dad will enjoy. The Snick Lounge, a games room and sports bar, hosts live music where you can bop away while enjoying a tasty cocktail. For a proper place to unwind, head to the luscious Anjana Spa which is worlds away from the neon orange and splat motifs that adorn the rest of the hotel floors above. Although, you may spot SpongeBob in subtle murals dotted around the space, donning his very own robe and head towel, or striking a yoga pose. There are even more character nods across the main Nickelodeon Hotel, where the rooms are as comfortable as they are vibrant. 5 Wild Galaxy is out of this world 5 Emily Downes meets SpongeBob at the new theme park Each floor is themed around a character — think jungle motifs for Dora The Explorer and industrial pipes for the adventures of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. If all the Nickelodeon colours get too much, though, hotel guests can enjoy free transfers to Rixos Premium Belek, a sister hotel down the road that has its own private beach as well as pools, restaurants and bars. Likewise, any guests staying at a Rixos property in Antalya can enjoy free and unlimited access to The Land Of Legends, including the new Nickelodeon Land, during their stay. I was staying in a SpongeBob suite where a giant pineapple housed all the drinks and snacks I could dream of. After a tiring day on the roller-coasters, I would sink into the plush bedding and unwind with the TV (which, of course, has access to all your favourite Nick shows). Even SpongeBob would be impressed with this place.
The Irish Sun
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I took my family to the new Nickelodeon Land in Turkey with rides and character meets – here's how to get free entry
WHO lives in a pineapple under the sea? Not SpongeBob SquarePants any more. The yellow cartoon character has a new home on Turkey's southern coast at the impressive Land Of Legends theme park. 5 The fab new Nickelodeon Land in Turkey 5 Have endless fun at Antalya's Nickelodeon Hotel Credit: Supplied 5 Unwind in style at the Rixos Premium Belek Credit: Supplied He's brought along all his pals to its new Nickelodeon Land — and I was one of the first there to check them out. The themed area neighbours Adventure Land and the exotic Aqua Land in the vast entertainment complex in Nickelodeon Land consists of three areas — the underwater Bikini Bottom from SpongeBob SquarePants; intergalactic Star Trek: Wild Galaxy, based on Star Trek: Prodigy; and the open-air Adventure Bay from PAW Patrol. And just steps away is a plush new Nickelodeon hotel, featuring 238 themed bedrooms and its own waterpark-like outdoor pool where you can get 'slimed' for real, Nickelodeon style. Read More on Travel Sounds totally retro, right? There's a definite nod to the nostalgia of 90s Nickelodeon. Think Rugrats and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, as well as little ones' modern favourites, such as Chase from Paw Patrol, Dora The Explorer and Nickelodeon's cartoon reboot of Star Trek. I got stuck into the action at Bikini Bottom, my favourite area, which transports visitors to a neon, SpongeBob-themed underwater landscape. The standout attraction is the Fiery Fist O'Fun, a reference to a classic Most read in Family The ride is like a ferris wheel on steroids, fast-paced enough to make your stomach drop — in the best way. But if that is not your style, take a spin on the Jellyfish Jam swings. New Nickelodeon land to open in Brit-loved holiday hotspot next year - with Paw Patrol rides and Spongebob attractions Or you can pootle around the land in overhead blimps, dubbed Sandy's Rockets. Plankton's Plunge is another must for thrill-seekers. As the name suggests, it drops you from a squeamishly scary height. Then there's the Crazy Carnival Ride, where you can battle against your family in a virtual shoot-out. Aside from the rides, my highlight had to be meeting the chipper yellow sponge himself. At various points in the day, each of the characters pop up for meet-and-greet sessions, so you can snap a picture with Squidward or pose with Patrick. Giant pineapple Meanwhile, Chase and the gang from Paw Patrol can be found hanging out at Adventure Bay, where rides are aimed at the littlest of adventurers. It's not just about the kids, though. There's plenty of spaces that even Mum and Dad will enjoy. The Snick Lounge, a games room and sports bar, hosts live music where you can bop away while enjoying a tasty cocktail. For a proper place to unwind, head to the luscious Anjana Spa which is worlds away from the neon orange and splat motifs that adorn the rest of the hotel floors above. Although, you may spot There are even more character nods across the main Nickelodeon Hotel, where the rooms are as comfortable as they are vibrant. 5 Wild Galaxy is out of this world 5 Emily Downes meets SpongeBob at the new theme park Each floor is themed around a character — think jungle motifs for Dora The Explorer and industrial pipes for the adventures of the If all the Nickelodeon colours get too much, though, hotel guests can enjoy free transfers to Rixos Premium Belek, a sister hotel down the road that has its own private beach as well as pools, restaurants and bars. Likewise, any guests staying at a Rixos property in I was staying in a SpongeBob suite where a giant pineapple housed all the drinks and snacks I could dream of. After a tiring day on the roller-coasters, I would sink into the plush bedding and unwind with the TV (which, of course, has access to all your favourite Nick shows). Even GO: NICKELODEON LAND, TURKEY GETTING THERE: easyJet flies from Gatwick to Antalya from £24.99 each way. See STAYING THERE: A Themed Deluxe Room at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts costs from £296 per night, based on a family of four sharing and on a full-board basis. See
