The beloved sea sponge is returning to the big screen in The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, and fans are in for a nautical thrill. Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Movies have just released the first trailer for SpongeBob’s latest cinematic voyage, set to hit theaters on December 19. This marks the fourth theatrical SpongeBob feature — and the first in over a decade to debut in cinemas.
SpongeBob vs. The Flying Dutchman: An Undersea Showdown
In Search for SquarePants, SpongeBob SquarePants embarks on a mission to prove his bravery to Mr. Krabs by chasing down one of the show’s most iconic antagonists: the Flying Dutchman. Voiced this time by Star Wars legend Mark Hamill, the ghostly pirate has never been more menacing or hilarious.
The story sees SpongeBob journey to the darkest depths of the ocean — “where no Sponge has gone before” — promising fans a blend of slapstick comedy, sea-soaked scares, and heartfelt friendship. While SpongeBob’s voice is once again performed by Tom Kenny, the regular cast also returns, including Clancy Brown as Mr. Krabs, Bill Fagerbakke as Patrick Star, and Rodger Bumpass as Squidward.
Joining the voice ensemble are newcomers George Lopez, Ice Spice, Arturo Castro, Sherry Cola, and Regina Hall, each lending their voices to brand-new characters under the sea.
A Fresh Look: 3D Animation Returns
While the classic SpongeBob SquarePants series remains traditionally 2D-animated, Search for SquarePants continues the franchise’s trend toward 3D CG animation — as seen in previous films Sponge Out of Water (2015) and Sponge on the Run (2020).
The vivid animation style gives a cinematic edge to the underwater world of Bikini Bottom, allowing for visually rich action sequences, expressive character design, and new imaginative environments far beyond the TV show’s scope.
Helming the project is longtime SpongeBob contributor Derek Drymon, who makes his feature directing debut. The story comes from franchise veterans Marc Ceccarelli, Kaz, and Pam Brady, with a screenplay by Brady and Matt Lieberman, known for animated hits like Rumble and The Addams Family.
A Theatrical Comeback After Streaming Detours
Although SpongeBob has maintained a strong presence in pop culture, his recent adventures — including Sponge on the Run, The Sandy Cheeks Movie, and Plankton: The Movie — went directly to streaming platforms like Paramount+ and Netflix. This makes Search for SquarePants the first theatrical SpongeBob film since Sponge Out of Water, which made a splash with a $55 million domestic opening in 2015.
Now, with a prime holiday release date of December 19, Paramount is positioning this film as a major family event, banking on the multigenerational appeal of the SpongeBob brand.
Why It Matters
SpongeBob SquarePants has been a cornerstone of animated television since its 1999 debut, spawning toys, memes, theme park attractions, and more. As the franchise nears its 25th anniversary, Search for SquarePants not only honors the series’ legacy but aims to reach new audiences with updated visuals and fresh talent — while staying true to its zany roots.
Whether you’re a nostalgic adult or a first-time fan, there’s plenty to love when SpongeBob drops anchor in theaters this holiday season.
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants In Theaters December 19, 2025 Rated TBD | Runtime TBD Studio: Paramount Animation / Nickelodeon Movies
“Are ye brave enough to face the Dutchman’s curse?” — The Flying Dutchman (voiced by Mark Hamill)
