SpongeBob SquarePants Christmas

The denizens of Bikini Bottom pull out all the stops for this holiday compilation that begins with the double-length special episode “Christmas Who?” Sporting optional audio commentary on the DVD by creator Stephen Hillenburg and Tom Kenny (the voice of SpongeBob), a melodious choir-vamped version of the opening song, and live-action “live from Encino” clips of SpongeBob fan club president Patchy the Pirate (a.k.a. Kenny in a buccaneer costume), this festive episode finds Sandy (the squirrel) introducing SpongeBob to Christmas, with the latter rounding up letters for Santa that need to reach the surface, making Christmas preparations and setting up decorations, and studiously ignoring Squidward's daunting comments that Santa is a fake. Not surprisingly, SpongeBob is heartbroken when Kris Kringle doesn't show up, but while Squidward initially finds the situation funny, he ultimately saves the day by dressing up as Santa and bringing semi-jolly joy to the town. Capped by an absolutely uproarious visit from the “real” Santa, who drops by to thank Squidward, the VHS version includes three bonus episodes (which, truthfully, seem to have little to do with Christmas), while the DVD features an extra eight episodes, as well as a storyboard for “Christmas Who” and previews. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams)