SpongeBob is one of the most popular shows in history and most recently the villain of the series has gotten an upgrade. Plankton: The Movie was released on Netflix on March 7th, receiving a considerable amount of praise. What about this movie makes it so engaging?
As per usual, the film starts with Plankton plotting to steal Mr Krabs’ Krabby Patty formula and rule the world. When his plan fails yet again, his computer wife, Karen, becomes extremely frustrated with his constant scheming and selfishness that she turns against him. This wreaks havoc in Bikini Bottom now that Karen uses a magnetic device, attracting the buildings and ultimately affecting its residents. SpongeBob helps Plankton to realise his mistakes and reconcile with Karen.
If a computer taking over the world may not be enough, it may also help that it’s a musical! SpongeBob has been known for its catchy tunes and this definitely brings in the vibes of the early years of the show while adding a modern twist. For now, let’s take a look back on how it all started.
SpongeBob Before
When reflecting on the early years of the show, let’s start right at the beginning over 25 years ago. From his interest in being a marine biologist, the creator, Stephen Hillenburg, developed a really creative idea of life underwater. Best of all, the main protagonist was a talking sponge who could seemingly be under the sea in real life. The show itself had comedy, chaotic scenarios, and surprisingly a lot more heart than people may expect.
For that reason, SpongeBob had a golden age for its first four seasons and its first movie coming out in 2004. The reason behind the movie was that although the show solidified each character’s main quality and interests, that wasn’t definite and it didn’t feel definite. It helped keep the show grounded but still extremely entertaining.
From this point on, SpongeBob has become one of the main sources of cultural references from other TV shows, merchandise, and even memes from scenes that still make people laugh. It set the stage for a series reaching to younger and older audiences alike. Stephen Hillenburg really started a legacy with this show. Even if you don’t like, there’s still something memorable about that sponge.
SpongeBob Now
When reflecting on the series now, there has been a drastic change. The special effects and the comedy became exaggerated, while the plots felt formulaic and repetitive. Weirdly, when I was a kid, it didn’t matter which episode was on. I just enjoyed every single one. Watching now, it felt impossible to watch another episode without feeling confused. While comedy is important, the show had heart and helped us relate to the characters. Now it feels that it’s lost its balance.
What felt like a letdown was the character development, especially with SpongeBob and Patrick. While we know SpongeBob is a playful and optimistic sponge, the series progresses to make him childish and naive. Instead of being lovable, it becomes annoying.
Meanwhile, we all know Patrick as the dumb sea star. By the later seasons, he’s gone from stupid with a bit of class to rude and selfish to the point where his actions feel less entertaining. With these changes in the characters, it feels difficult to root for them during the times in their vulnerable moments.
Because of the age demographic has changed, it feels natural and possibly understandable that the show would adapt too to keep up with the audience. It still feels wrong for the older fans who related to the earlier seasons.
Why ‘Plankton’ Saves The Show
A consistent trait of the series is Plankton’s goal to steal the Krabby Patty secret formula. This makes him one of the most hated creatures in the sea. With that being said, there’s not much of a drastic change in his character, making us imagine him gaining redemption.
By having him as the main character of this movie, it adds the potential of the audience learning why he acts this way with flashbacks. It also reflects his vulnerable side – the times where he felt ignored or invisible. The reason why it may resonate more with the audience is because it shows that each character has their own story. It’s such a clever device to challenge the view of heroes and villains to be entirely different. It even goes as far to question if there really is such a thing as a villain, but we all know that without a villain, we probably wouldn’t even have any challenges or any story for that matter.
Plankton: The Movie is also a very creative way to help revive the show’s common themes. There are many cultural references throughout the show including its 25-year-run. It really emphasizes its legacy and acts as a way to reignite these themes into something new. It doesn’t necessarily feel forced but a bit more nostalgic if the older audience were to watch this.
Final Verdict
Many critics have responded favourably, most of them seeing it an adventurous story filled with heart. However, an interesting case came from ScreenRant that the flashbacks were confusing when observing how Plankton had the idea of stealing the recipe. It felt inconsistent to how it was presented in the show.
For me, I found this to be a surprisingly enjoyable watch, despite a few exaggerated moments. SpongeBob helping Plankton’s realize his love for Karen is heartwarming and flows throughout the movie, showing his optimistic and trusting personality. Their dynamic is extremely effective as Plankton gradually becomes more aware of his actions. Likewise, SpongeBob, despite his childishness, is very much emotionally intelligent when helping Plankton. This definitely feels like a more developed side to his character, even if it’s more subtle.
It was interesting that Patrick was barely in the movie, despite being SpongeBob’s best friend and having a significant role in other movies. When he does appear, it has a mixed perspective. Although he’s friendly towards SpongeBob and they show they’re best friends, it doesn’t feel organic, especially with the main focus on restoring Karen and Plankton’s relationship. Nevertheless, it was also nice to see the series’ recurring characters such as Pearl and Mrs Puff, having more of an active role.
We don’t know if there will be another SpongeBob movie but it can only be based on what creative ideas comes next. For now, all we have is the same nostalgia of the earlier seasons. If you’re a fan coming back to the series, I’d recommend this for a good watch, but you can’t go wrong with the first one!
