SMURFS 3 Already in the Works From Sony

Variety reports that Sony Pictures Animation and Columbia Pictures have already begun work on a third installment of the SMURFS movie franchise. The first film saw a worldwide gross of over $563 million. 

According to the report, 'Smurf' writers Karey Kirkpatrick and Chris Poche are currently developing the script. The writing team have previously collaborated on Dreamworks Animation's "Over the Hedge." Jordan Kerner, who produced the 'Smurfs' movie and its sequel, will once again produce the third film. 

Sony announced a second installment of the hit film just 12 days after 'The Smurfs' was released in theaters. 'Smurfs 2' has already started production and is set to be released in theaters on July 31, 2013. The film will star returning cast members Neil Patrick Harris, Jayma Mays and Hank Azaria with will welcome new cast members Brendan Gleeson, J.B. Smoove and Christina Ricci. An evil version of Smurfette to be voiced by Katy Perry.