SpongeBob is headed back to the big screen—and this time, he’s on a mission to prove he’s got what it takes to be more than just everyone’s favorite fry cook. The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, releasing in theaters on December 19, 2025, marks the next chapter in the beloved animated universe, packed with underwater laughs, new faces, and a pirate ghost with a flair for drama.

This new installment from Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Movies, in association with Domain Entertainment and MRC, brings Bikini Bottom into another round of cinematic chaos—with a twist of spooky adventure.

The Plot: SpongeBob vs. The Flying Dutchman

When SpongeBob decides he wants to prove he’s brave enough to be more than just the optimistic goofball we all know, he sets off on a dangerous voyage. His goal? Show Mr. Krabs (and himself) that he’s fearless enough to follow none other than the Flying Dutchman—the ghost pirate who’s equal parts eerie and hilarious.

This seafaring comedy takes SpongeBob and his friends into uncharted waters, deeper than they’ve ever gone. Along the way, the crew faces ghostly challenges, absurd situations, and plenty of chances for SpongeBob to learn what real bravery looks like.

Who’s in the Cast?

The movie features the original voice cast fans have come to love:

• Tom Kenny (SpongeBob)
• Clancy Brown (Mr. Krabs)
• Bill Fagerbakke (Patrick)
• Rodger Bumpass (Squidward)
• Carolyn Lawrence (Sandy)
• Mr. Lawrence (Plankton)

They’re joined by an impressive set of guest stars, including:

• George Lopez
• Ice Spice (Isis Gaston)
• Arturo Castro
• Sherry Cola
• Regina Hall
• Mark Hamill

With Derek Drymon directing and a screenplay from Pam Brady and Matt Lieberman, this feature brings together a mix of longtime talent and fresh voices to push SpongeBob’s world into deeper waters—literally.

A Family-Friendly Comedy With Some Pirate Attitude

Rated PG for rude humor, mild language, and a few thematic elements, the movie is set to be family-friendly but still packed with the kind of offbeat comedy that’s defined SpongeBob SquarePants for over two decades.

Whether you’re an original fan or a younger viewer meeting SpongeBob for the first time, Search for SquarePants is set up to be a winter holiday highlight.

In Short: SpongeBob Still Has It

After all these years, SpongeBob’s charm hasn’t faded. This new movie brings him back into the spotlight with plenty of high-stakes hijinks, familiar faces, and just the right amount of absurdity. Catch it in theaters this December and prepare for a nautical mess of ghost ships, loyalty tests, and classic SpongeBob-style humor.