The confirmed title and what it means
The new SpongeBob SquarePants film is titled The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants. It is the first full-length theatrical SpongeBob feature in the series’ history and continues the show’s tone while expanding the lore through a multiverse adventure. Singer Ice Spice contributes an original song for the film, integrating her music into the soundtrack rather than naming a sequence after her. The project is positioned as an event film that deepens the world introduced in previous theatrical entries and the long-running animated series.
Key details at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Feature film title | The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants | Official announcement |
| Centric character | SpongeBob SquarePants | Official synopsis |
| Notable music contributor | Ice Spice (original song) | Official soundtrack and artist posts |
| Theatrical release year | 2025 | Studio schedule |
| Franchise context | First feature film in the series | Production history notes |
Film context and series background
SpongeBob SquarePants originated as a Nickelodeon animated series that debuted in 1999 and has since become one of the longest-running children’s comedies in television history. Prior to The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, the franchise saw two earlier theatrical releases: The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie (2004) and Sponge Out of Water (2015). Search for SquarePants is framed as a next-step event for the brand, designed to introduce the property to a new generation of moviegoers while preserving the humor and heart valued by longtime fans.
Cast, characters, and creative leadership
Principal cast and voices
The ensemble voice cast revisits familiar roles and adds new characters aligned with the multiverse premise. Tom Kenny reprises his iconic role as SpongeBob SquarePants, alongside other series regulars. Ice Spice contributes not as a voice performer but through an original musical track that is woven into the film’s narrative fabric. The production emphasizes continuity, with returning actors balancing legacy and fresh storytelling.
Creative team and direction
The film is directed by Derek Drymon, who brings prior series and feature experience to the project, while additional narrative development is guided by head writer Kaz. The production team includes Nickelodeon Movies and the global brand team behind SpongeBob, with a shared focus on expanding the world through Search for SquarePants. Creative decisions prioritize the series’ comedic roots while introducing stakes appropriate for a modern theatrical event.
Music integration and Ice Spice’s contribution
Ice Spice’s involvement centers on an original song crafted for the film, designed to complement key story moments and appeal to both fans of the series and contemporary pop audiences. The track is positioned within the soundtrack rather than attached to a specific named sequence in the film. Her collaboration aligns with Nickelodeon’s broader strategy of integrating current musical voices into legacy franchises, providing a bridge between long-form animation and current chart culture.
Release strategy and marketing approach
The film’s marketing emphasizes multiverse storytelling, brand nostalgia, and cross-generational appeal. Trailers highlight visual spectacle and character-driven humor while underscoring the journey denoted by the title. Promotional partnerships and on-air campaigns coordinate with Nickelodeon’s broader portfolio to maintain audience engagement ahead of the 2025 theatrical window. The rollout is designed to sustain long-term interest in the SpongeBob universe beyond the initial release.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the new SpongeBob movie called with Ice Spice? The movie is called The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants. Ice Spice contributes an original song to the film rather than having a scene named after her.
- Is this the first SpongeBob feature film? Yes, Search for SquarePants is the first full-length theatrical SpongeBob movie, though earlier films exist in the franchise.
- What role does Ice Spice have in the movie? She performs an original song for the soundtrack; she does not voice a character in the film.
- When is the movie scheduled to release? The theatrical release is set for 2025.
- Who directs the new SpongeBob movie? The film is directed by Derek Drymon.