Nick Preps SpongeBob Doc

NEW YORK: The filmmakers behind the acclaimed features Wordplay and I.O.U.S.A. are developing a documentary about Nickelodeon’s hit series SpongeBob SquarePants, as the brand celebrates its tenth anniversary. 

Nickelodeon has inked a deal with the production company O’Malley Creadon, Patrick Creadon set to co-produce, direct and write the documentary, along with co-producer Christine O’Malley. The as-yet-untitled one-hour special will explore SpongeBob’s evolution as a pop-culture icon, airing across MTV Networks’ various TV platforms in July. Created by Steve Hillenburg, the series has become a global phenomenon with a host of merchandise as well as a feature film. The number one show for kids 2 to 11 for more than seven years in the U.S., SpongeBob SquarePants airs in more than 170 markets.

"Patrick and Christine have a talent for finding a greater cultural significance in their film subjects," said Marjorie Cohn, the executive VP of development and original programming at Nickelodeon and executive producer of the project.  "We’re excited to see how they will explore SpongeBob‘s ten year evolution from a cartoon character to an international pop culture phenomenon."

"After spending two years examining the financial health of the United States, Christine and I were ready to tackle something a little more upbeat," said Creadon. "Telling the SpongeBob story feels like the perfect fit.  Plus, our three young children think this is the coolest thing ever."