‘The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants’ Earns 90% Rotten Tomatoes Score

The latest theatrical entry in the ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ franchise has achieved a strong critical reception upon release. ‘The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants’ currently holds a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on early reviews. This marks a significant positive response for the animated feature.

Paramount Pictures produced the film in association with Nickelodeon Movies. Directors Derek Drymon and Liza Johnson helm the project, featuring voice performances from the core cast including Tom Kenny as SpongeBob and Bill Fagerbakke as Patrick Star. Additional voices include Clancy Brown as Mr. Krabs and Rodger Bumpass as Squidward.

The plot follows SpongeBob and his friends embarking on a quest after a mysterious disappearance affects Bikini Bottom. Animation incorporates hybrid techniques blending traditional 2D styles with modern 3D elements. Runtime clocks in at approximately 90 minutes.

This installment represents the fourth major theatrical release following ‘The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie’ in 2004, ‘Sponge Out of Water’ in 2015, and ‘Sponge on the Run’ in 2020. The franchise originated as a television series premiering on Nickelodeon in 1999. Cumulative global earnings from prior films exceed $500 million.

Critics praise the film’s humor targeting both children and adult audiences through layered references. Visual creativity and faithful character portrayals receive frequent mentions in reviews. The soundtrack features original songs composed by series veterans.

Box office performance begins tracking with domestic and international openings. Marketing emphasized nostalgic appeal alongside new adventure elements. Merchandise tie-ins include toys and apparel lines.

The series maintains ongoing television episodes alongside film projects. Voice actor Tom Kenny has portrayed SpongeBob across all media iterations since inception. Creator Stephen Hillenburg’s influence persists despite his passing in 2018.

This high Rotten Tomatoes score positions the movie among well-received animated features of the year. Audience scores remain pending full release data aggregation. Distribution handles theatrical runs before streaming availability on Paramount+.

The production budget details remain undisclosed publicly. International releases follow staggered schedules across territories. Fan communities highlight Easter eggs connecting to classic episodes.