SpongeBob Square pants is a show that entertained millions of children, but for many of its fans still have unanswered questions. From Plankton boasting about going to college to the story behind his wife Karen. Dave Needham’s film Plankton: The Movie goes into the full story of Plankton, leaving many fans with a better understanding of the beloved character.
Plankton: The Movie is set in Bikini Bottom, a place with pineapple houses, marine inhabitants and a variety of characters that make up the beloved show Spongbob. In the film, Plankton’s plans to steal the Krabby Patty secret formula puts him at odds with his wife Karen leading her to hatch a plan to take over the world.
The movie takes a creative approach to Plankton’s backstory by utilizing flashbacks at appropriate times. The movie could have taken a much more basic approach by just looking at Plankton’s life, but their approach creates an interesting plot without having to introduce a completely new character, which could be confusing for returning audiences. This makes for a plot that is simple but effective and unique.
It is not just the well crafted storyline that makes the movie enjoyable, but the childish humor as well. The film’s intended demographic is children, and in response, it puts a heavy focus on the humor such as Plankton “accidentally” freezing his college roommate with a freeze ray. This humor is further exemplified with wacky and vibrant animation which amplifies its entertainment quality.
The film brings back the original voice actors for Plankton (Douglas Lawrence), Karen (Jill Talley), SpongeBob (Tom Kenny), and Mr. Krabs (Clancy Brown) to voice in the new movie, bringing back a touch of nostalgia for returning fans.
The movie also has many musical numbers of very high quality, often changing the animation style during them to add an extra layer. The musical numbers, though high in quality, were divided unequally. There were no musical numbers for a third of the movie then three in the span of 20 minutes. If the musical numbers were incorporated throughout, it could make for a more consistently entertaining movie rather than it being concentrated at certain times.
Seeing as the movie is directed towards kids, the message should be appropriate and positive. The themes of independence and communication in relationships, whether they be romantic or platonic, is positive which teaches children to maintain good relationships with their loved ones.
There are also a number of references from the original cartoon, which may go over the heads of younger audiences, but to older audiences looking for some nostalgia, it can be a nice surprise and a sign of the love put into the production.
Plankton and Karen’s reconciliation makes for a conclusion that fulfills the viewer, while also reminding them that even if Plankton and Karen got into a fight, they will still be trying to take over the world together.
Plankton: The Movie entertains through its vibrant animation and catchy musical numbers, while giving longtime fans a better understanding of Plankton’s past. In addition, it was filled with themes aimed at teaching valuable lessons to its younger audience. The love and care the creators put into the production resulted in a high quality movie, worthy of a 82% from Rotten Tomatoes.