The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run Timeline ( Real )

movie_announcement
June 2017

Announcement of The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run

The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run was officially announced as the third installment in the SpongeBob SquarePants film series.

production_completion
Early 2020

Completion of Animation and Post-Production

The animation and post-production work for The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run was completed, preparing for release.

release_delay
March 2020

Initial Scheduled Release Date Postponed Due to COVID-19

The movie's theatrical release was delayed due to the global COVID-19 pandemic affecting cinemas worldwide.

digital_release
March 4, 2021

Release on Streaming Platforms and VOD

Instead of a wide theatrical release, The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run was released on streaming platforms and Video on Demand in many countries.

theatrical_release
August 14, 2020

Canadian Theatrical Release

The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run received a theatrical release in Canada, being one of the few countries where it was shown in cinemas during the pandemic.

The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run Timeline ( Fictional )

origin
Pre-Movie Era

SpongeBob and Gary's Childhood

Young SpongeBob and his pet snail Gary grow up together in Bikini Bottom, showing their close bond.

inciting_incident
Day 1

Gary's Disappearance

Gary suddenly goes missing, prompting SpongeBob to begin a search to find his beloved pet.

quest_start
Day 2

SpongeBob and Patrick Set Out to Rescue Gary

SpongeBob enlists the help of his best friend Patrick to embark on a journey to rescuing Gary.

encounter
Day 3

Encounter with King Poseidon

SpongeBob and Patrick meet King Poseidon who provides crucial information about Gary's whereabouts.

adventure
Day 4

Journey to the Lost City of Atlantic City

The duo travel to the Lost City of Atlantic City to find clues about Gary's location.

substory
Day 4

Pearl's Royal Coronation

Pearl Krabs prepares for her royal coronation, a subplot that runs parallel to SpongeBob’s quest.

companion_addition
Day 5

Rescue of Larry the Lobster

SpongeBob and Patrick rescue Larry the Lobster from a dangerous situation, gaining an ally.

climax
Day 6

Defeating the Flying Dutchman

SpongeBob confronts and outsmarts the Flying Dutchman during their search to save Gary.

resolution
Day 7

Gary is Found and Returned Home

SpongeBob reunites with Gary and brings him back safely to Bikini Bottom.