Opened: March 4, 2021

Directed by: Tim Hill

Starring: Tom Kenny, Bill Fagerbakke, Rodger Bumpass, Clancy Brown, Mr. Lawrence, Jill Talley, Carolyn Lawrence, Antonio Raul Corbo, Jack Gore, Jason Maybaum, Presley Williams, Mary Jo Catlett, Matt Berry, Awkwafina, Keanu Reeves, Snoop Dogg, Danny Trejo, Tiffany Haddish & Reggie Watts

Returning to our favorite character who lives in a pineapple under the sea, Sponge on the Run is a great addition to the SpongeBob SquarePants franchise even if it feels a bit familiar.

In an attempt to easily steal the Krabby Patty secret formula, Plankton (Mr. Lawrence) delivers Gary (Tom Kenny) to the wanting King Poseidon (Matt Berry). Devastated losing his best friend, SpongeBob (also Kenny) and Patrick (Bill Fagerbakke) go on a mission to save him.

Fully animated in CGI, the film has a wonderful style that falls in line with its previous films and series. The animation is wonderfully done and often feels identical to the 2D comparison.

The solid flashbacks featuring adorable younger versions of the main characters steal the thunder from the awkward live-action portions that could have been passed on.

Final say: Fans will run. ★★★★☆