SpongeBob SquarePants returns to the big screen with The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, a bright, buoyant animation that leans confidently into the franchise’s strengths while offering a gentle sense of growth and adventure. Aimed primarily at younger viewers up to around eight, the film starring Mark Hamill & Tom Kenny delivers plenty of knowing humour and affectionate nostalgia for parents and adults who grew up with Bikini Bottom and fancy dipping back into that world with a lighter, playful lens.
From the opening moments, the film’s visual energy is unmistakable. The animation is bold and colourful, with lively textures and expressive character movement that immediately draw the audience in. The pacing is brisk without feeling frantic, keeping young viewers engaged while allowing space for jokes to land and characters to breathe. SpongeBob’s latest a forward and heighten the sense of adventure. The underwater world of Bikini Bottom is imaginatively rendered, packed with silly visual details and creative set pieces that keep the film visually engaging throughout.
At the emotional core of the story is SpongeBob’s friendship with Patrick. Their dynamic remains as endearing as ever, combining genuine affection with timeless, goofy chaos. The film understands that their bond is central to SpongeBob’s appeal, using it to ground the story’s bigger themes of bravery and self-belief. Supporting characters are also given time to shine: Mr. Krabs, Gary and Squidward all contribute memorable moments, adding humour, contrast and familiar mischief that fans will appreciate.
The interviews
One of the film’s standout additions is the Flying Dutchman, voiced by Mark Hamill. His performance strikes an excellent balance between spooky and silly, creating a chaotic antagonist who raises the stakes without ever becoming too frightening for younger viewers. In an exclusive interview with London Mums, Hamill spoke about the joy of working in animation and the freedom it offers an actor, particularly in a world as playful as SpongeBob’s. He described approaching the Flying Dutchman as a theatrical character first and foremost, leaning into exaggeration and fun rather than menace, which clearly comes across on screen.
Tom Kenny, the iconic voice of SpongeBob, also shared insights with London Mums about returning to a character he has inhabited for decades. He explained that keeping SpongeBob feeling fresh is less about reinventing him and more about staying true to his optimism and sincerity, qualities that continue to resonate with audiences of all ages. That commitment is evident in the performance, which feels as enthusiastic and heartfelt as ever.
Overall, The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants succeeds as a lively, affectionate addition to the franchise. It celebrates everything audiences love about the characters who “live in a pineapple under the sea” while offering a story that feels accessible, upbeat and reassuringly fun. Whether you are introducing young children to SpongeBob for the first time, revisiting Bikini Bottom with nostalgic affection, or simply looking for a cheerful family cinema outing this Christmas, this film delivers an entertaining experience from start to finish.
The trailer
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants isin UK cinemas from 20 December 2025.
Monica Costa founded London Mums in September 2006 after her son Diego’s birth together with a group of mothers who felt the need of meeting up regularly to share the challenges and joys of motherhood in metropolitan and multicultural London. London Mums is the FREE and independent peer support group for mums and mumpreneurs based in London https://www.londonmumsmagazine.com and you can connect on Twitter @londonmums
