Christina Ricci to Play Katy Perry’s Evil Twin

Raja Gosnell’s ‘The Smurfs’ was a hit. Wait, that’s an understatement. It was a complete smash, earning $142 million domestically and a grand total of $563 million worldwide. An inevitable sequel was announced, and we’re starting to learn who’ll be in it.

Christina Ricci is one of the first new faces to lend her voice to the series, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The former star of ‘Casper the Friendly Ghost’ and ‘The Addams Family’ will play Vexi, who is being described as an evil version of Smurfette (voiced by pop star Katy Perry).

Gosnell is coming back to direct, as is most of the original cast, according to the trade. That means more Gargamel for Hank Azaria, and possibly more hammy supporting acting from Neil Patrick Harris and ‘Glee’ star Jayma Mays.

Ricci most recently starred in the flop TV show ‘Pan Am,’ and she has a role opposite Robert Pattinson in the period romance ‘Bel Ami.’

Sony Animation, meanwhile, wants the sequel, known only as ‘Smurfs 2’ right now, in theaters on July 31, 2013. Will it stay in New York City? Shift its action to Smurf-land? Take its act to an overseas location? The sky’s the limit for this true, blue franchise. Brace yourself.