Finally saw Sponge Out of Water.

By that I mean that was the second time viewing the film. Because the first time I went with a friend, I missed the first 5 minutes because either someone at the box office wasn't doing their job, or said friend got the time wrong. (My money's on the former) But anyway, was this film the return to glory for SpongeBob SquarePants? Well, I'd say it was!.....mostly.

But yeah, it really feels great seeing SpongeBob in his old lovable form, even more than a lot of the more decent modern episodes. The film was written by Stephen Hillenburg, and it shows. The movie's personality feels more like the classic era where Hillenburg was in charge. Which can be seen in the characters personalities, and even the occasional reference to more classic episodes, like Reef Blower and Frankendoodle. I also like how it fixes some of the flaws from the previous film. Like how Squidward, Mr. Krabs and Sandy have bigger roles and are in on for the adventure, Plankton acts more like his tv counterpart, and the fact that Plankton actually has some character development. Heck, the art-style resembles the old show a lot more than the original. And on top of that, the humor is just hilarious. Whether it'd be from SpongeBob and the gang, or from those seagulls that hang out with Burger-beard. The movie knows which brand of humor makes SpongeBob who he is. And if you weren't that impressed with the live action scenes from the trailers, you don't have to worry because it only takes up the third act of the film. (Which was awesome btw)

Though despite my praising of the film, I won't deny that there are some problems that keeps it from being truly great, and they're pretty significant....for one, the story's REALLY by the books, at least for SpongeBob standards. It's the same song and dance routine where the Krabby Patty goes missing and SpongeBob and friends have to find it. Not only that, but a lot of elements feel recycled from past episodes and the original film. Whether it be F.U.N., Mermaid Man and Barnacleboy V, and even some of the more sucky episodes like SpongeHenge and WhoBob WhatPants. Though to be fair the movie does the plot elements better than the last two. That and, a lot of scenes from the trailers (As well as the "Thank Gosh It's Monday" musical number) don't even appear in the film. It was honestly pretty jarring. Also, while most of the characters act like their old selves....Patrick on the other hand..doesn't. There are times where he's actually really annoying and acts like his more Prickier side from the newer show. But I feels that only like that for HALF of his appearance. For there are parts where he's hilarious and more lovable....just not all the time.

And for one nitpick.....I'm not too sure that this is a prequel to the original film or not. I mean it's safe to assume that it is since the Krusty Krab 2 is no where to be found, SpongeBob isn't a manager, among other factors, but in the Thank Gosh it's Monday song, you can see the Seaweed Mustache make a cameo. I know lack of continuity is a knowing factor of the show, and it's been common in cartoons long before, but would it really hurt the franchise if it had SOME shed of consistency? I mean come on!

So as a whole, The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water was a ton of fun. While it's not the best thing to come out of SpongeBob, and it won't win newcomers over, it's still a wonderful burst of nostalgia to those like myself who LOVED the little square dude growing up. Though I wouldn't recommend it to those who either never liked SpongeBob or are just sick of him, but I do recommend it to fans everywhere. If this is a sign of a brighter future for the show, than I'm optimistic.

All though....I really wouldn't mind if this was a retirement film instead....but Nick just isn't the type to give away a money maker. Yet they're willing to pull Legend of Korra off the air. Go figure.....