SpongeBob’s New Adventure Explores Pirates and Cyber Fun This December: First Look
Voice cast and new short announced.
Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies have unveiled the first poster for The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, ahead of the official trailer’s release on Wednesday, 9 July. The fourth theatrical instalment in the beloved franchise is set to hit cinemas on Friday, 19 December.
This time, SpongeBob finds himself caught up with the Flying Dutchman, voiced by Mark Hamill, in a thrilling pirate adventure. Recently, Paramount and Nickelodeon premiered exclusive footage at Annecy 2025, revealing SpongeBob’s latest escapade. After finally reaching the height of 36 clams — enough to ride a rollercoaster — he hesitates and instead is drawn into a spooky Underworld journey when he unwittingly summons the Flying Dutchman.
At the fairground, SpongeBob meets Mr. Krabs, who shares tales of his seafaring exploits and inspires SpongeBob to earn his swashbuckler certificate. However, this quest leads to the abduction of SpongeBob and Patrick by the pirate ghost, who needs their help to break a curse.
Director Derek Drymon, a veteran of the franchise, described returning as “like coming home” and emphasised the film’s goal to recapture the spirit of the original series. The movie blends 3D animation with cutting-edge 2D styles reminiscent of The Mitchells vs. the Machines and Spider-Verse.
Tom Kenny reprises his role as SpongeBob, joined by familiar voices including Clancy Brown (Mr. Krabs), Rodger Bumpass (Squidward), and Bill Fagerbakke (Patrick). Newcomers include Mark Hamill, Regina Hall, Sherry Cola, Arturo Castro, George Lopez, and rapper Ice Spice, who also contributes a song.
Fans won’t have to wait until December to see SpongeBob on the big screen: a new short, Order Up, will premiere alongside the upcoming Smurfs movie from 18 July. This dialogue-free short showcases SpongeBob’s classic antics at the Krusty Krab, highlighting his humorous rapport with Squidward.
Written by Pam Brady and Matt Lieberman, with music by John Debney, The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants is produced by Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Movies, animated by Reel FX, and promises a fresh yet nostalgic adventure for fans old and new.
