Raja Gosnell, who helmed "Scooby-Doo" and "Beverly Hills Chihuahua," has signed on board to direct Sony/Columbia's "Smurfs" movie. The film will be released in both 2-D and 3-D on December 17, 2010.

The Hollywood Reporter reports that Gosnell joins a group of filmmakers associated to the project who already have experience with live-action films mixed with CGI animation. Jordan Kerner ("Charlotte's Web") is producing while J. David Stem and David N. Weiss ("Shrek 2"). Audrey Wells ("George of the Jungle") penned the screenplay.

The plot is being kept under tight wraps but the famous characters - including Papa Smurf, Smurfette and Gargamel - will be featured in the movie.