The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants (2025)

Sandy Cheeks and Plankton get about as much screen time as the trailers before the movie, so if you came for the whole Bikini Bottom gang, that stings. SpongeBob has grown tall enough for a monster roller coaster but can’t make himself board it, and while trying to prove he’s brave he stumbles into Mr. Krabs’ secret pirate basement and summons the Flying Dutchman by accident. Mark Hamill voices the ghost pirate, and his very friendly offer of a spot on the crew gives the story a real spine. The jokes come fast, a few run long, and some only land with the youngest seats in the room. Mr. Krabs gets a surprisingly sweet moment about who he really was. At 88 minutes, it doesn’t overstay. It made $169.3 million worldwide on a reported $64M. A 5.8 because it’s bright, brisk and a little forgettable. $1,923 says you try to blow one perfect bubble at the sink tonight and feel unreasonably proud when it works.

What works: The Flying Dutchman makes a fun, sneaky villain, and the story about being brave in your own way is sweet without getting preachy.

What doesn’t: Fan favorites like Sandy and Plankton are pushed to the edges, and the nonstop zaniness wears thin for anyone over about ten.

Who it’s for: Young SpongeBob fans and the grown-ups who still quote the show at them.