DON'T FEED THE MUSE III (SpongeBob Conspiracy Film FINALE)

[@AlexBaleFilms]

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[@HarryBoSweets]

No

[@rodrigamer__]

raid got to him 😔

[@danikopter_lp]

hey

[@JosiahTheMinor]

Hi Alex

[@Starymintbreeze]

BRO YOU AMAZING NO MATTER WHAT YA DO! JUST WANTED TO REMIND YA! >:)

[@steven.q]

A recurring motif is that Alex's color pallet mainly revolves around the color yellow but when he's "free" from the muse he no longer wears it instead he wears white. Just something i noticed

[@fossilartstudios5878]

Yellow can be seen as a “stained” white. So him dawning white is his removing the stain

[@jakoblent4694]

yellow is also spongebobs color so it has double meaning in this way@@fossilartstudios5878

[@dumphat]

@@fossilartstudios5878 huh, interesting but in my interpertation is that he's now free from spongebob theories since spongebob is yellow

[@steven.q]

​​@@dumphatthat was half my theory

[@eliesh3833]

The white shirt could also mean having a new blank slate. In other words, a fresh start to begin again from. Alex has decided to completely cast away the identity that the Muse was trying to force upon him, leaving him with very little except his own true identity. Upon breaking free of the Muse before it could killed him, hes effectively gone through a symbolic "rebirth," not just from cheating death but getting his identity back. On top of that, white is basically every single color within the spectrum raised to their highest level of brightness. So, the whiteness of his shirt could also mean near infinite potential in the sense that, Alex is no longer "The SpongeBob Guy," and now he can be anything he wants to be. But in turn, it raises the question of, "Where does Alex go from here?" Well, we know one thing. Wherever he goes, and whatever direction he chooses to take his creativity, he won't be completely alone in doing so. While he may have lost his friends, he got his beloved cat back. That's not only some other form of life to keep him company, but also a source of hope and assurance for him. I'm not saying that any of my interpretations are 100% correct. But this is just another way of viewing the symbolism that I've just considered before writing this comment.

[@talkandmockinggoblin960]

In the context of the story itself, my guess is that Alex was able to escape thanks to the cat because he never actually gave up the cat to the muse. He bought the cat and brought it into the house, but the muse took it without Alex actually offering it to him, since they mention that giving living flesh is like giving a part of yourself away, it’s likely Alex was able to reclaim the part he never really gave up

[@ash-isfirey]

This is amazing

[@veggitoevil7786]

It makes sense Alan never made it

[@D_YellowMadness]

Plus the cat never agreed to it so there was no consent anywhere in that scenario.

[@Warren7999]

Also isn't the cat named Gary?

[@angelvollant864]

I don't know that he escaped. I think he may have been successfully "assimilated" and "digested". This whole movie was a meta movie about film-making. I mean, there's multiple movie references, the obvious ones being the Matrix (the white room with leather seats and the cat representing a glitch in the Matrix, AKA the fake world) and Inception (multi-leveled dreams, never know which world is real). Especially with the ending. SPOILERS for Inception. Throughout the film, Dom (Leo DiCaprio) uses a spinning top to know when he's in the real world and when it's a dream. If it never stops spinning, it's a dream. If it falls, it's the real world. Well, in the ending, he spins the top, but turns away before he can see the result. He's accepted this reality, whether real or fake, because he's satisfied. In DFTM, Alex bought a cat, which the monster promptly ate, even though Alex changed his mind. That would signify that every time he sees a cat, it's a fake world. He's endlessly chasing it, as some form of redemption, an expression of regret. Even old Alex has the cat. "Isn't this what you wanted?" And wouldn't you know it, after heroically triumphing over the monster, he takes a rest on the couch, and sees the orange cat. His last expression is one of resigned, yet satisfied acceptance. Bonus: Rewatch Ms. Puff's theory. The one where Ms. Puff is delusional and imagines fake worlds to make herself feel better. Just like the thumbnail of SB Theory 4 says, it's all connected. Edit: One more thing. The cat has no tag. We saw the supposedly bloodied tag, thought it could've been the monster's substance. Why wouldn't the monster have eaten Gary? Anyway, it's definitely possible that this is truly the real world, but just like in the Inception ending, Alex doesn't care anymore if it's real or fake. What matters is he's got a cat, and can make movies now. Even if he's still in the belly of the whale.

[@g5girl]

I like how the Muses represent people making content that’s popular, but not the kind they want. Like how Ramona wanted a peaceful farm with no cruelty, but it turned into just that and so much worse. Only by being true to yourself and think for for yourself are you able to defeat the Muses. Like how Alex broke free and decided to be himself again, while all the others are walking towards the mother, continuing the paths their muses and basically the public demand has set them upon.

[@kidsarecomedians]

Okay game theory good job on getting that message

[@BallerDan53]

I would be more specific and say that the muse represents his own community. They bring him ideas for new theories while also expressing some form of betrayal when he creates content that's unrelated to spongebob. And since his spongebob videos were what gave him the most views, he felt pressured to continue making them and to not disappoint his audience. It's that feeling of being trapped doing something you don't like in perpetuity for the entertainment of others. Many actors and film makers in Hollywood have expressed the same feelings of hopelessness.

[@modernNeanderthal800]

Alex is a hero to me

[@DPSFSU]

I really freaking love how much Alex Bale is self-aware about how KZbinrs and their culture is. Nail on the head friend, nail on the head.

[@mahwiiiife408]

Thank you Alex Bale. This was an insane journey. From humble beginings as "just the spongebob theory guy" for most of us, thank you for never giving up. We'll be happy to see whatever comes next, at your own pace of course!

[@lindapinto2196]

Holy cow the scp foundation this must be really important

[@FaultyBand]

ITS NOT OVER

[@plasmaemerald8407]

Don’t worry, we’ll see him at the big screen soon 😁

[@YourFoxFriendYT]

I've been around since pizza time pizza

[@nemanjacabarkapalordozunu]

I'm Currently working on becoming a Director myself I hope that one day I will make movie's together with Alex.

[@AkoTE.]

Ok, I wanna mention something really quickly The meowing of the cat turning into the squeaking of the swings is by far my favorite scene in this, the small things like that really feel major to me

[@AlexBaleFilms]

Thanks! We did the same thing in the very first playground scene where I mixed meowing sounds with the swings

[@literallyafishhook]

​@@AlexBaleFilms that's so fucking clever, all of the little details you guys added in really made this one of the best series i've seen in a while, i'm honestly sad i didn't watch it sooner lol

[@Glitchy_froggy_is_real]

​@@AlexBaleFilmsmother is near

[@CutmanXNZ]

Haven't finished watching it, but the fact that in the party scene, the music used is not any party music but a remix of Stadium Rave that is the music used in the jellyfish dancing scene in spongebob, which literally ties everything back together is an amazing detail, its noticeable the effort on this final part on trying to bring every theme into one conclusion.

[@aurawarrior1367]

Yeah, my mind blew up when I noticed that, it’s such a cool detail

[@porcelainghoul]

And the music used in the movie theater scene is "Livin' in the Sunlight, Lovin' in the moonlight" which is in the pilot episode of Spongebob!

[@silverstuff1146]

and the part where alex stomps on the muse and the gunk sticks up can also be a reference to how spongebob steps on plankton in the spongebob movie

[@RedactedN86]

Alex is the only person that can put a Raid Shadow Legends ad in a horror film

[@theyaboyinterconnecteduniv9998]

hey bro i loved promos and im not even an og fan

[@raisedservices9540]

He fed the muse by putting it in so this video contradicts itself THE MUSE ISN'T WHAT PEOPLE THINK IT'S THE LOVE OF MONEY!

[@Randomguythatsrandom.]

Loved it alex, cant wait for your next batch of content. Thanks for making me interested in filmmaking!

[@Exrseven.]

@@Randomguythatsrandom.ur not replying to Alex 💀

[@Soldfor62cents]

Bet

[@AveSmaxxVR]

I genuinely feel so bad for you, all the people actually was here just for a SpongeBob theories. This masterpiece didn't even make it past half of million views, while your most-watched video have 19 million... This film is amazing! I can't wait to get more of your creepy work! You deserved A LOT bigger and better community. Keep up good work, man!

[@skeetsmcgrew3282]

I actually find that quite poetic, and proof that he isn't being a pretentious baby. He really DOES have to choose between fame and fortune and artistic integrity. It isn't some metaphysical philosophical debate, it's a real phenomena with real world consequences

[@fireking0531]

​@@skeetsmcgrew3282even further proven by the new theory video getting basically 1 mil in a week... Genuinely saddening

[@schplorgus]

@@fireking0531Then again, you can tell how many people actually stayed for his horror ARG and people who left because he stopped doing spongebob.

[@kevo5133]

It’s sorta ideal in a way though, as it was his intent to blow up with some video and essentially kickstart the plot of the story. He was planning this story for a while before his first SpongeBob theory, just needed something to be a hit in order for his story to actually work as well as it does, because it’s real. Of course his contempt for the videos isn’t, he enjoyed making them regardless, it’s just that it was planned that he’d use his extremely successful videos as a platform for his story. It’s really well crafted and while it shows the sad reality with these views, we see that just like his character that he’s ultimately happy to do what he likes freely

[@vladimiraehben2308]

So the empty theater was representing when alex bale makes horror films and the views is somehow small meanwhile the party where's there's many people was representing if Alex makes SpongeBob theory the views are alot more than when he makes horror content. Truly genius

[@estherrodriguez8399]

And when alex stops talking all the partygoers look at him

[@cutierenesmeegirl]

What about the old man

[@shrimp9199]

@@cutierenesmeegirl maybe that's the older version of him? Like it's saying that if he keeps only making things he wants to make, he'll eend up alone, playing movies for no one to watch and making pop corn for no one to eat? The old guy looks mostly happy and says that he doesn't want to go outside, but we see that he still got sad, maybe representing Alex's internal struggles between fame and being true to himself, even after he's picked a path? Just my thoughts

[@ZaynKhattak-t9f]

Omg I didn’t even notice that! That is a great attention to detail, Alex. Even I was surprised at the old man being a future Alex.

[@NurseAmamiya]

Ungrateful fucks is what I'd call those people demanding only for the spongebob theories instead of appreciating what's being posted aside from the theories

[@EagleTimberWolf]

This finale was a total mindfuck and completely surpassed my expectations. This series is quite possibly the greatest ARG ever made, and I don't know if there will ever be another one like it. I'm not exaggerating when I say DFTM has helped me through a pretty rough couple of years and while I'm admittedly heartbroken to see it go, I feel lucky that it came around during a time when I needed it and I'm grateful for all of the hard work and effort that was poured into this masterpiece. I just want to say thank you to Alex and to all the other talented people who helped bring this wonderful project to life.

[@tentativegazer]

I spent the last couple of days after this upload catching up on the ARG and the first day I saw a comment that called it the best ARG ever and I was like "pfft that's a bit of an exaggeration" but having just finished this I can say that, no, they were right actually. Maybe it's not the literal all time best by my god if it isn't in the running

[@GeorgeCowsert]

I really gotta appreciate how Chester the cat became Alex's white rabbit, helping guide him through the most difficult parts of his journey.

[@Quackervoltz]

The cat is named Gary

[@mytv78-d6n]

Chester is the corgi

[@rickmartinez3268]

Indeed

[@rickmartinez3268]

​@Quackervoltz clever idea

[@Thairon-real]

@@rickmartinez3268 it shows a collar in an earlier episode

[@LZuchowski98]

Came for the SpongeBob theories, stayed for the incredible cinematography and story telling. Thank you so much for creating such and amazing series for all of us to enjoy. I’m excited to see what the future holds for you. You are a great film maker!!!

[@Burner-td4cu]

Nah. Bring back the Bob. His amateur videography skills are bad. Not gonna waste my time on this pathetic tripe. Bring back the Bob.

[@shaneburdette1892]

@@Burner-td4cubruh

[@mikefilmsmovies4we5om5]

​@Burner-td4cu He's not going to make another one. Films is what he loves.

[@nynvib276]

​@@Burner-td4cuYou're literally the type of person he's criticizing.

[@CryptoNWO]

Can’t wait to see what your future holds Alex. Truly remarkable filmmaking.

[@wiggleninja]

246 likes no comment lemme change that

[@ArunaUtd]

I've let this sit for a while and did a bunch of rewatches. The amount of detail you've packed into every shot amazing. The Spongebob songs playing at the party and in the cinema I caught on my second watch. The subtle sounds in the background that really add to the ambiance and tension, really the whole sound design is fantastic. The twist of the scene with Wesley, so smooth. Bring me onto the filming itself... Wow. My favourite shot is probably Old Alex putting in the vcr and seeing his reflection, great facial acting from that man btw. The entire party scene is just elite. If I listed everything I enjoyed about it, I'd still be here tomorrow. The only thing I didn't love were the credits font. Phenomenal Alex, never stop being you.

[@matt-lacey]

Every time you call your horror films shitty, I die a little inside. This is literally so original and freaky. And to do it over the curtain of a silly spongebob conspiracy series is just amazing! Such good stuff, and can't wait to see what you take on next.

[@supotter377]

I agree so much it hurts hearing him say that as his stories are better than the majority of mainstream stuff.

[@username5155]

There are five stages to Don’t Feed the Muse, and they all parallel Alex’s actual story. The first stage is Alex making a one-off Spongebob video just for fun. The second is Alex making a few more because “hey, that was pretty fun!”. The third is Alex feeling pressured to make more Spongebob content by an ever-growing fanbase. The fourth is The Spongebob Guy deciding to use this series of theories to help kickstart his next ARG, creating a natural buildup just like with Pizza Time Pizza, Promos, and even OLDROOT for a real throwback. The fifth is Alex realising that, just like his character, he doesn’t need to do this. He should be using his platform to spread positive messages instead of horror and “good triumphs over evil” storytelling, so he makes the finale about how the only way to be yourself is to do what he’s done; Not cave to peer pressure and instead do things for yourself. And I feel like this tipping point came when he saw that his Magic Schoolbus theory, one untied to the ARG or Spongebob as a whole, outperformed theories 7, 8, and BFtM II. Then again, all of these could very well have been planned. The TMS theory wasn’t set _in_ the DFtM universe, but I feel as though it’s intended to parallel it in many ways. Just swap real Alex with Mr. T.S. Guy and you’ve got a match. As said before, this could all just be part of the ARG (edit: It *_probably_* is since he started on DFtM before the Squilliam theory), but what I said before could still apply even then.

[@RyderHuckFilms]

He had the idea for don’t feed the muse before the squilliam theory. He used it as a vessel to get it started

[@username5155]

@@RyderHuckFilms What would he have done if it flopped? Would he have kept going until a different video got popular and used that one?

[@RyderHuckFilms]

@@username5155 He started the SpongeBob theories right when that “Skin Theory” video was doing rounds. So he was pretty certain it wasn’t going to flop. If it did idk what he would’ve done but if it’s anything like his previous projects he would’ve continued on.

[@username5155]

@@RyderHuckFilms Yeah, I guess so. Alex always seems to find a way to snake his way into the mainstream with something cool and new, and them BAM! It’s an ARG now! And the best part is that it seems to always work. (Well, besides OLDROOT, but that had it’s own flaws. No one’s perfect their first time around) If there *was* a pushback, he could’ve just flipped the script from “more Spongebob” to “less Spongebob”, even if it would’ve taken a good amount of work on his part.

[@renayallen4610]

Im not reading all this

[@Gaming_pro90]

This is the best fucking short film series I’ve ever seen. At 16:12 when the music just repeats over and over I literally got chills and goosebumps

[@Gaming_pro90]

YOU SAW MY COMMENT YESSSSSSSS

[@Professionalgoofygoober]

Popcorn?

[@Labiggs15]

I was not disappointed with your storytelling and film making skills, Alex. Well done, man. I look forward to your next project 🍻

[@mlgkid3298]

Honestly, I have never seen anything more satisfying than "Written and directed by Alex Bale" good job on the project, I really hope your vision came out exactly how your wanted, and I can't wait for what you're gonna do next

[@itzReEvolution]

I'm so mad that no one has talked about him hitting the pole I fuckng died laughing so hard that I fucking coughed so hard.

[@commanderkris93]

The cat survived. That's all I really care for.

[@Fireborn-o4v]

Same to bad for the doggo tho 😭

[@scarlet_swiftie4ever]

Atleast it isnt real- 😊 bc i think i would have cried if it died.​@@Fireborn-o4v

[@lightingmcqueen522]

I thought it meant he didn’t actually escape

[@pikalambe8959]

The cat escape!!!!!

[@destro697]

pretty sad life you got if that's all you care about

[@rosethxrns]

One of the only web series that’s truly held my interest over the years, cannot wait for future projects. So glad that you aren’t just the SpongeBob guy

[@ZelphTheWebmancer]

It's amazing how every Spongebob theory actually reflects Don't Feed the Muse: #1 Fraud: Being successful but feeling like a fraud #2: Television: This is a fictional series, all we see is fact and purposely escalating stakes to be entertaining #3: Dark Secret: There is a dark secret to these videos, mainly how people have to feed the muse and even give up some of themselves to have a creative career #4: It's All Connected: All the theories, all the fake sponsors, and even the fake youtubers are all part of the series #5: The False King: Introducing the idea of a fake persona and someone taking the place of the other, even with a spooky "Good thing he took it's place" thrown in there #6: Alien Death Cult: The muses teased as alien not because they are literal aliens, maybe, but because they are an alien force changing people to meet their needs #7: Robot Invasion: This one is super obvious, and when it started to all come together. People are being slowly substituted with muses. #8: Same Person?: More of a thematic fit of dedicating to something and resenting it but still deep down still loving it. Also, shows the idea of two people from different times, the "past" Alex still being digested by the muse but still himself, and the "future" Alex which is the muse, or rather what Alex will become if he let's himself being consumed. Amazing series and great rabbit hole to fail into.

[@sumonrathancock4286]

My guy is like mat pat

[@Hyunnical_Rikato]

This is a criminally underrated comment

[@spectre489]

The Liminal horror of the movie theater scene was absolutely sublime. I applaud the creativity you've had throughout this entire series, and whatever you do following this I hope you enjoy doing it. Your expertise as a film maker really has shone throughout everything you've done, not just the Muse series.

[@e.c.sherman4749]

From Pizza Time Pizza to Don't Feed the Muse, you have some incredible talent for mindfuck horror! As much as it hurts to see this series end, I'm so glad it went out with one hell of a bang!

[@complex2live]

Hopefully the fanbase continues to explore and do deep dives into Alex's Horror Films

[@clouddd8053]

God it’s been so long since pizza time pizza

[@seanrrr]

I love this series. He's not just telling us that he doesn't want to be "the SpongeBob guy" and how it feels to be torn between success and integrity, but also showing the people here for the SpongeBob content what else he has to offer. I started watching for the SpongeBob theories, but I'm subbing and sticking around because of how brilliant of a storyteller he is. I honestly wouldn't have watched his other stuff if he didn't include the Muse subplot in these videos; great work!

[@TheTopHatGamer618]

The old-timey "Livin' In The Sunlight" at the concession stand is brilliant, well done on the whole project Alex!

[@rumpeltyltskyn]

So I started being slightly aware of Alex when I heard about HMF ARG through a few KZbinrs and that it was connected to another Webseries/ARG called Don’t Feed the Muse. You can say I was caught off guard when I started watching some shockingly good SpongeBob Conspiracy theories that turned out to be *a part of Don’t Feed the Muse*! I quickly was absolutely blown away by Alex’s filmmaking, and turned out I found the series right on time because I only needed to wait about a month to see this masterpiece and oh my god it is. Alex is very rapidly becoming a favorite filmmaker of mine. A little bit for SpongeBob, but a lot for the horror. Maybe he can’t go BACK from SpongeBob Guy, but God can he go FORWARD.

[@b4a.x]

You’re so lucky me and a lot of other people had to wait a whole year for him to wrap this up

[@biggiesmall3562]

I knew him for pizza time pizza

[@adityamishra7711]

what is the full form of ARG

[@rumpeltyltskyn]

@@b4a.x Yeah I really hit it at the perfect time lol

[@rumpeltyltskyn]

@@adityamishra7711 I believe is alternate or augmented reality game.

[@boruno7291]

Interesting detail: everytime alex saying "don't let us down" we can se Jared (as human), that means that he somehow controls the muses and also does that mean that human Jared understanding himself even after digestion. That makes sence 🤔 Also... Alex you're such a genius, because i know only one person who can make such detailed arg and it's you, Alex! From the 1st Spongebob theory to the final, we all were there with you. You're the best, keep it in mind, Alex) It was really nice journey)

[@BRRRRRRRCRAZY]

Don’t forget they are repeating the same phrase Jared said in the IT files video “DONT LET US DOWN”

[@nikimoon2871]

Ok so I know I'm 2 days late to the comment section but I just wanna say that Feed The Muse has been one of the most brilliant works of art I've ever encountered. I wrote about the arg elements specifically for the research elements of my college project last year (uk college, not american college lol) because I just love how amazingly intertwined each element is, along with the writing. So yeah, long story short, my college project got the highest grade I could get and thats the story of how - technically - Feed The Muse helped me get in to an art university? (Hopefully) TLDR: this series is amazing, this whole channel is amazing and I loved following this. I doubt anyone will ever see this but Alex, thank you

[@AlexBaleFilms]

That’s so cool, i’d love to read it

[@dogwelderyt]

@@AlexBaleFilms the fort building is in drake right now so we should get it back then and then go go to the fortnite park in fort park in park park in fort park park in park park in fort park park in park park in fort park park in park park in fort park park in park park in fort park park in park park in fort part shirtpants

[@justaneditygangstar]

The last time I was super hyped for a KZbin video was fucking Content Cop 😂

[@HonorJanas]

*Don’t Feed The Muse

[@dogwelderyt]

@@HonorJanas you still knew what they meant + what do you gain from this

[@ummaTHEumma]

100% worth all the waiting from the first conspiracy theory to the last. What a film that speaks more words than written. Your use of imagery is flawless!

[@DOGS_L0V3_M3]

The way I almost cried when I read "Alex bale" instead of "SpongeBob guy" really says a lot about how much your work can affect someone's emotions you are great at what you do and I absolutely loved this

[@HamLitt]

This was amazing! And I love how through all this subversion of "the Spongebob guy", the "Larry the Drug Kingpin" theory that was being shared throughout this actually makes some sense! Brilliant!

[@ruth5830]

I love how you’ve combined the best of both worlds. Your talents in filmmaking make this channel feel less like KZbin videos and more like an eerie experience

[@woodificould]

This whole series has been fantastic and deserves 10x more views. If Hollywood had half of your creativity I'd start going back to the theaters in a second

[@luvkeno]

Literally discovered the SpongeBob theories last week. Kinda insane timing because waiting for over 2 years would have KILLED ME. Legitimately stopped even watching the theories and just skipped through to the live action horror film parts. This was such a fantastic find. Thanks so much!

[@That.One.Kid_]

I waited over 2 years

[@luvkeno]

@@That.One.Kid_ you’re the strongest of us 😩

[@bassoondude820]

This finale was holistically a truly thought-provoking and appropriate punctuation to the chilling satirical commentary you have been cleverly articulating throughout the series. The ingenious cartoon-centric facade shifted fluidly into the disillusionment of the widely misconceived archetypal "content creator's glory." I am sincerely impressed with such a unique expression of this phenomenon and my words really cannot do it justice... I am eagerly and sincerely excited to see what more you have to offer this world. You, Alex Bale, are an artist. Bravo

[@a_random_tire]

Those are certainly some big words. Neat

[@Ravuun]

OH Excellent, excellent standing ovation, well done! As soon as I saw the screen with the red curtain I thought, 'are they going full Lynchian?' And then the old guy with the popcorn...and then the theater marquee! hahaha I was entirely delighted by this! The sound design was flawless as well. This whole project has been so absolutely wonderful, first-rate work. Bravo!

[@CanterlotCrusader]

Crazy how it all wraps up. Kudos Alex for managing to makes something so compelling using the theory video trend. Also, is that Spongebob costume something made for this? If so, damn is it uncanny.

[@AlexBaleFilms]

We bought a real one and then my production designer Jenavieve added a ton to it to make it creepier. The arms were completely custom made.

[@RandoClowno]

@@AlexBaleFilmsholy shit, that's awesome. Thank you so much for this amazing film you've brought us (-and the dystopian SpongeBob SquarePants costume)

[@lrdiaz2768]

It took me this long to realize how much in common all of this had with Little Shop of Horrors and u STILL managed to make it your own thing. Cant wait to see what else u come up with man

[@TheSmileEntity]

Feed me alexxx

[@Quackervoltz]

I HAVE LITERALLY BEEN SAYING THAT

[@2Galxy]

I can't believe I put off the time to watch this. This has been so incredible and I don't regret a moment watching it. I'm going to watch you next movies/episodes you do. You are so talented, and the music & editing & acting is PHENOMINAL. HOW????????

[@alexaverreaux]

Wow… your acting, the production value, the extras, the special effects. I’m blown away Alex, you really put the time and effort into this one and it shows!! Congratulations on your amazing series finale!

[@Roxy_racin]

Oh my lord. This film really nailed it, just with everything. While I was sad we didn’t get to see more of Ramona, (was rlly hoping to see her since the whole scene of everyone screaming “don’t let us down”, which directly relates to her), I guess that means mother didn’t try to get her into the void to add her to the host collection, and just ended up killing her outright in the return video. Either that, or Ramona is avoiding direct contact with other hosts in the void. And in another vid it seems like Jared caught her or killed her, which could mean the return video and all of that never happened and was made by hmf. Or she overpowered him and got to hmf to try and use the weapon? (The weapon btw is a burnt piece of an easy bake oven Ramona had when she was a child.) The idea that the muses directly need a host to be fully broken down and to accept what the muses want them to be was executed perfectly here. The way Alex’s muse uses that against him to try its hardest to lure him back in so it can fully digest him was just insane. Using Mark’s words, the whole “ACCEPT WHO YOU ARE,” was great and chilling. What made me sad was that most likely Victoria, Wesley, and nearly all his friends were already and had been fully digested by the muses which is why Wesley says “I’m already gone” and could explain why we see Jared there, even though he was successfully digested by a muse. Seems like everyone, no matter if they’ve been digested or not, still is stuck in this connected world. But one thing is that the muses do seem to have a weakness. Something Ramona herself sadly never discovered, but Alex did. When you break out, you have a chance to kill the muse since it’s finally weaker than you. Its words “you’re all alone now” pretty much could mean everyone around him is gone, and there’s no getting them back. He might’ve escaped, sure, but into a doomed world.

[@TheSmileEntity]

Alex is so scrunkle scrunley I'm literally dying help I spinning and jumping around my room and yayayyyayauay AAAEDJKDMDMCF YIPEE!!!

[@TheSmileEntity]

Also I love the " . . fuck you . " * walks away *

[@Roxy_racin]

@@TheSmileEntity YIPPIE but also sad yippie bc nearly everyone ded

[@Roxy_racin]

@@TheSmileEntity and also holy moly we keep finding each other on the muse vids

[@TheSmileEntity]

@@Roxy_racin that . . May be because it's my new hyperfixation . .

[@Dynasthick]

Woah! That ending was... insane. This ARG was probably one of, if not the best, ARGs of all time! Seriously, absolutely perfect! Loved it! Recently decided to rewatch it for fun and my goodness it does not disappoint.

[@dukenightrider6104]

This was an amazing saga. What started as just a theory about squilliam soon transformed into an amazing horror film. It’s ashamed Hollywood can’t come up with something like you did whether because of pandering to the mainstream or copyright claims, but At least there’s people like you making movies like this. Keep up the amazing work and I hope you make more horror films like this in the future.

[@vinn8135]

I know, and to think I stumbled on this ARG by coincidence. I was watching the episode Band Geeks & then the Squillium Theory appeared. Perfect coincidence

[@XupyprKZ]

On a serious note... he's free. He got his name back. That one fact is what makes me happy.

[@elsalchipapo]

but the cat is still there,that means he never leave the asimilation

[@cenobittten]

Blimey, this was an absolute masterpiece. This entire series was a triumph, you should be proud of yourself. As a piece of metafiction, it's beautifully crafted and multilayered. I didn't even like Spongebob until your series showed me the hidden depths. I'm honestly in awe - you are a major inspiration to me. Looking forward to following your future work!

[@TFTN_Official12]

Alex Bale if you get around to reading this, you danged genius actor and writer you are, this is an amazing series and I’m glad I randomly stumbled across this!

[@15TommyC]

I have never been more invested in a KZbin series. You have some serious talent my man and deserve the world.

[@JohnDoe-wl5xm]

this reminds me of that jschlatt quote "bro id put a raid ad on my magnum opus"

[@mysticthemanakete]

Well, holy shit. If this is what you can do with a webseries, the industry isn't ready for what you could do with a FULL FEATURE. This was a phenomenal watch - thank you so much, Alex.

[@griddle3086]

I love the “In the Mouth of Madness” and “The Shining” inspirations throughout, and honestly bro I think making a short film meta commentary about how limited you are creatively by what made you successful is the best way I’ve ever seen a creator branch out into what they truly want to do. I’ll check out your other stuff 👍

[@indefiniteartblock434]

26:40 Cat (Gary): What's your name? Alex: ...Alex. Poetic.

[@themetalmario77]

He remembered. Remember the start, when he couldn't remember his name?

[@indefiniteartblock434]

​​@@themetalmario77 That was cute. Young Alex asking an older version of himself that makes it so innocent.

[@Chris-uv5ip]

A few seconds later SKIMNI BOTTON DADA!

[@jakedoesmemes]

Hi, Alex. I've been loosely following you and your work since Pizza Time Pizza from God knows how long ago. On November 28th, 2020, I got a notification from your channel. It was a video that I didn't expect from a creator like you, but nonetheless, I found enjoyable. After everything that happened regarding PTP, I jokingly commented "Can't wait for the year long spanning arg that comes out of this". I was 13 when I commented that, and there's no way I could have imagined how far this series actually ended up going. It's insane to think about something so long ago, and to see how far it's come. I even remember you deleting the initial video and reuploading it again the same day because of a mistake. I now sit here, at the ripe, old age of 16, watching you finally get to finish your story, in your own unique way, which is beautiful. Seeing you finally get your well-deserved flowers after all of these years was very rewarding to watch happen. This series, alongside many of your other works, has personally inspired me. DFTM will probably go down as my favorite webseries of all time. Everything associated with it, the genuinely flawless and genius SpongeBob theories, with the little bits of story contained in each upload. The great special effects and cinematography brought everything so much more life. The Happy Meat Farms stuff was a great parody of KZbin sponsors. The fact that you trolled the entire internet with the Cynical Critic stuff was mind-blowing, and hilarious to watch play out as someone already invested in the series. There's so much to be proud of, most of all being the finale. This was the perfect way to end it off, using all of your popularity from the SpongeBob videos to show a wider audience than ever before exactly what makes you so special. There's a great bit of pride, and maybe some sadness too, that I feel watching everything come to a close. Watching this blossom from a channel with about 50k subscribers, to a channel with nearly 1 million just through your sheer creative passion, vision, and ingenuity. There will never be another series like this, unless you decide to break the internet again, and in that case I'll be 2-0 for unknowingly foreshadowing lol. But, if you don't do that, I'll still be watching to see what you can come up with next, and so will many more people. Can't wait to see that movie. From one random stranger on the internet to another, thank you for everything, Alex. - Jake

[@halfmettlealchemist8076]

That whole bit with the old man in the theater was fucking insane, it felt like I was watching a Charlie Kaufman film for a second there. This film rules. This whole ARG rules. And you rule most of all, Alex. I cannot wait to see what you do next.

[@gregvs.theworld451]

I've got to look at those tapes again. I damn near fell out of my chair when I realized what they were.

[@Kye9842]

​@@gregvs.theworld451what were they

[@Kaiserin]

@@Kye9842One of them says DFTM

[@gregvs.theworld451]

@@Kye9842 I'm pretty sure it's like a metaphorical collection of Alex's past works. I noticed DFTM (Don't feed the Muse) on the shelf, and TTT looks like an old, possibly first film project Alex made as a kid. I bet if we looked, we'd find Easter Eggs like PTP (Pizza Time Pizza), the high school news bumpers he did the name of which I don't remember. Only problem is I don't know all of Alex's work, so some, maybe most of the tapes would be lost on me, but I'm 90% sure the old man represented a regretful Alex and he was watching his past works labeled in abbreviations on tape. I bet if we looked at video titles and projects before the Spongebob theories, we'd be able to figure out what's what on the shelf. If UFO is a stand alone video, I'm sure that wouldn't be hard to find, unless it doesn't stand for UFO.

[@sirfantasy7140]

LNS - late time snack YCEW - your cars extended warranty TS@ - the spiral WBF - wanna be friends? CF - CATFISH TS - the sheet TCOTFSM - the church of the flying spaghetti monster WW - where's waldo? HKWYA - he knows when your awake PTP - pizza time pizza ANOWD - act natural or we die DDTC - don't drink the coffee TUM - the umbrella man R- reflections TD - the door TCI - the cookie incident TMA - the master architect The one between TD and TCI might be "my normal childhood" for MNC can't tell though. The ones I couldn't find were UFO, WTHIGO, and TC. The only one lining up with HS is horror stores. But then I ask why is it written in blue?

[@icey984]

I love creators like you. Making awesome videos for us all. It’s sad one day this might end.

[@podiacider]

Now that this amazing series is complete, I can't wait to see your upcoming projects Alex! If you made more horror shorts, that would be amazing! I always loved those! If you decided to make more theories like the Magic School Bus one, that would be cool too! Whatever comes out of your mind, I'd love to watch!

[@TheSoulGage]

Having this on in the background while setting up some things. You're the GOAT though Alex. Always loved the amount of care and detail put into these videos whether it's the theories or short films. And the progress you've shown in terms of quality & skill shows how you've progressed as a creator in general. You got this Alex.

[@meowmeow9617]

The metaphor of the ending on how everyone’s going through problems was absolutely genius. This whole series was brilliant and I’m very surprised of the route you took with this!

[@clarav1938]

I’ll never forget watching a ton of your SpongeBob conspiracy videos without ever noticing the horror clips

[@Slinky0205]

Thank you, Alex, for creating an amazing arg filled with horror, mystery, a very liminal feeling at times(the whole cinema part) and some of the most beautiful film-making I've ever seen.

[@skeetsmcgrew3282]

This isn't an arg, it's just meta horror. An arg requires the audience to reasonably believe it might be real and most times it also requires audience participation.

[@nobodyfamousX]

I love this series. You had such a great hook in the beginning. I never expected that my love of theory channels would lead me to such a great piece of horror content. I'm eager to see what you do next. I know this has been promoted as the finale, but it feels like there is more to explore because there are still so many muse's out there.

[@JonYugen]

God this is so good. Crazy how some of us were roped into this series with the spongebob videos not even expecting something like this. We love you Alex, doesn't matter what you upload!

[@artisticallyexpired3127]

A stunning performance from the lead actor, heart tugging, emotional, and more. Truly, that cat more than deserves an Oscar for such a performance.

[@TradeMarkGiveaways]

Alex, dude, I love the overall message you were conveying here, you are amazing at making films, do what you want to do, even if you lose a few subscribers, keep moving forward! Great job, dude!

[@tyke4456]

I don’t know if you’ll see this Alex but thank you. This film blew away my expectations and I hope it gets the support it deserves for all the work you put into it. I loved the more abstract sections like the party, the film set, and the movie theatre and I loved the improvement over the first don’t feed the muse. The ending also hit hard showing that Mother was never actually killed and that there was no way to actually kill the muses. Anyway I really hope Alex gets the support he deserves and that he can continue to make films like this in the future

[@tentativegazer]

I really do like the ending because as depressing as it is in fiction, it isn't as terrifying when looking at it from a meta angle. Like of course money and fame are always going to corrupt people and morph them into their worst selves, it's just kind of how our current system works. The difference is that in our world people giving up what they love isn't going to cause an alien takeover. And Alex's story shows that each of us has the capacity for resistance within us. As daunting as the muses and mother seem, they are not invincible.

[@apollyonnoctis1291]

⁠@@tentativegazerthe hundreds of nukes that’ll almost certainly be flying mother’s way come morning definitely agree on that last point. Considering that she isn’t hidden anymore, and the USA and probably humanity as a collective won’t take a hostile alien invasion lying down, she’ll quickly find that humanity is far more dangerous when we’re not fighting each other. And considering that Alex was able to easily crush a muse, showing that they are by no means indestructible… Yeah, mother, even if she manages to grow to size of a large city by morning, doesn’t have a snowball’s chance in hell of surviving the damn sun getting dropped on her a few hundred times. Mother probably flaunts this new world order based on the belief that humans are too divided and assimilating them is the only way to unite, so she’s going to very quickly get a reality check on why her succeeding in uniting humanity would be the last mistake she’d ever make… For the entire five seconds of existence she’ll have left before she’s literally *atomized* by a good chunk of humanity’s nuclear payload. It’s also both an ironic and fitting end to something like her. An Eldritch abomination that preys upon isolated humans, looking to consume humanity that disguised itself as a meat company, is cooked alive by the very things she preyed upon working together. Because in the end, humanity didn’t need some ‘benevolent’ overlord to unite us through a new world order, *we just need a common enemy.*

[@Flaw2]

"Well you’re not fully dead, You’re being DIGESTED" HAPPY MEAT FARMS REFRENCE

[@Jayden-Movie]

I genuinely believe that you have created a beautiful piece of art. Things can either reward your time or waste it, and if I were to die tomorrow, I would be happy that I experienced this film during my short life. I hope I may live long enough to see another one of your amazing projects. Thank you Alex

[@imbaby5499]

Great video. I hope Alex's fears don't come true, and this video gets the recognition it deserves instead of being buried under the fame of Spongebob theories. I wish I could share it with other people.

[@dragonempress8367]

You can share it via the link

[@imbaby5499]

@@dragonempress8367 I meant I wish I had people to share it with

[@ironleegaming8227]

​@@imbaby5499use the threat of violence on strangers. For legal reasons this is a joke

[@zedoctor3724]

That's it, you've 100% sold me on seeing your first feature film. Also, I'm betting that the shot inside the microwave at 18:22 had to be retaken multiple times because the camera lens kept getting bumped into lol.

[@sosalosa2]

9:58 *loud overwhelming sounds* *silence* "fuck you" *leaves* truly comedy genius

[@gavindinsmoor8196]

I don't even know if I believe that this is the finale. The muses really can never be trusted, and neither can anything in the ARG. If this is truly the finale, then I say well done Alex, and I hope this continues with the other creators!

[@ShaneBlackheart]

I just binged all of this, and I was hooked the entire time. Seriously one of the best series I've seen on KZbin in a long time. I may not make films myself, but as an author who feels stuck with the battle sometimes of 'be true to yourself and risk no one caring, or write what's hot and popular despite it not being what I wanted and get more readers,' this was an emotional journey too. In the end, I chose to be true to myself and what I want, too. Bravo, dude. So glad I went on this journey with you. It hit home in a way I hadn't expected, and it was just some amazing horror. I'll be sticking around 🖤

[@karinabouchard9268]

Just watched this whole series and it gave me chills!!!!! THANK YOU ALEX BALE for so beautifully expressing the struggle that creators face when they start to find success in just one area of their world of big dreams & ideas.

[@duckmcbucket]

With how the ending is set up, I think the arg is still gonna continue for a little while. Maybe a few more updates on the HMF website or one last upload on This Place Is Not Happy. Cuz honestly, I don’t want this to end on an unresolved cliffhanger!

[@Roxy_racin]

Same here, I really want like an end where we see more of the unanswered questions. Like we still have no clue where the muses came from at all. Really was hoping to see Ramona as well, like a full Ramona model that’s in focus

[@unreleasedymb01]

thats what i was thinking im not disappointed by no means in fact it met my expectations i jus wish we would’ve had more insight toward the end

[@Psych0_R3d]

​@@Roxy_racinI'm very sure ramona is gone considering how in the end scene the reconnection began, we saw mother was still around and we that Carl as it turns out really was just fooling ramona I mean how else can he just fake being part of that hive mind? They all felt some sort of signal including Carl

[@Roxy_racin]

@@Psych0_R3d I mainly mean I wanted to see her in the void, since Jared was there, I kinda assumed she would’ve been too unless mother outright killed hwr

[@Psych0_R3d]

@@Roxy_racin well yea I assume so since we already have a fake ramona maybe there was no need for her to be digested anymore and I'm sure Jared out right stated that they were out for her head

[@oliver4705]

This was phenomenal. Thank you and everyone who has worked on this series for such an amazing experience. Being part of the community as it figured out the puzzles on new releases has been a blast and seeing this story unfold has been truly special. Very excited for whatever you do in the future, I know it'll be great.

[@dorkenspache8353]

My mouth dropped as soon as I saw Conspiracy Carl. I legit did not think he was apart of this ARG for some reason

[@baymaples7146]

10:01 the “fuck you” and sassy walk off 😂😂😂😂😂

[@Grimshaw_]

This was one of my most anticipated films of the whole year, and boy did you not disappoint! Alex, thanks so much for all of the amazing videos you’ve made for us. This series has really been something special. It was so much fun, and while I’m really sad that it’s done, I’m so glad that you were able to make it. I CANNOT WAIT to see your feature film! If this series showed us anything, it’s that you are an incredible filmmaker. So I just know that movie will be EXCEPTIONAL!

[@Kitkat-i6c]

I remember waiting around a year for this to come out and it was absolutely worth it, this is genuinely one of the best videos on KZbin.

[@b.b.b.b.b.b]

the spongebob guy is done, alex bale has regained control

[@crazymanmot]

As a horror story teller who is actually easily frightened I highly appreciate horror works that rely on horrific story lines rather than scary looking monsters jump scaring you all the time. And this film I think feels so real and personal and horrifying because it draws on personal experience. It was done as a statement. Two neat things I wanna point out (I did notice more but these two I find are really crucial to the point of the video) is that the whole time Alex was wearing a Goofy Goober shirt and a yellow Spongebob like jacket while he was being digested and was only able to change after a shower. And secondly, the title, "Spongebob Conspiracy Film FINALE". It doesn't seem like the end of these stories, that ending alludes to so much more going on. But I expect this will be the final time Spongebob will be used as a paet of Alex's character. The whole story here is a statement about moving on from the Spongebob stuff and how scary that felt to him, and as a horror film maker he took that personal horror and showed it to us in a very viceral way.

[@tentativegazer]

Your comment is a really good interpretation of the videos, but I don't believe it's true. Like you're 100% right on a thematic level when it comes to the story, but irl Alex has said he actually did really enjoy the spongebob theories and that his character in DFtM wasn't completely representative of his full thoughts. I'm sure it's based off of very real anxieties he's had because of the series, but from what I can tell all the Muse stuff and the themes that came with it came BEFORE the Spongebob theories. Regarding the ending, I'm pretty sure it's the definitive ending. Maybe he'll come back to the series at some point in the future but for now it looks like he's moving on to other stuff. If you want more context for what the whole deal with the ending is I'd suggest looking into the ARG surrounding it if you haven't already.

[@crazymanmot]

@@tentativegazer Which of the muse stuff came before the sponge bob theory stuff? I was not aware Muse came first. But as for Alex's personal feelings about how popular the sponge bob theories got, perhaps they weren't what caused him to make the ARG to begin with, but I am certain it contained a fraction of his true feelings within them (artist need inspiration to draw from, if not his success with sponge bob, then something else). Also, I am aware of the ARG surrounding it, and my opinion is: I don't think Alex himself would be satisfied to leave the story here. Sure, loose ends are all tied up and we are left to imagine the grisly fate of the world as the hosts reconnect with mother. But, still too many quests left with no answers. Sure, I believe the ARG is done, perhaps the Alex Bale Muse story is done as well, but I don't think this is the last we'd see of the story. Edit: Though honestly, I am not familiar with Alex's previous work so I don't know for sure. But I'm making an educated guess based on how he handles his other videos (the theory videos).

[@yinyangcurls4710]

Somebody give the old man a grammy that mans acting was stellar beyond words

[@M33PSTER]

YES so excited for this!!!! Thank you Alex for bringing this level of care and creativity into KZbin. I can't believe we get this content for free.

[@Abasnail400]

This was incredible, Alex. Especially to follow along with. This honestly kept me on the edge of my seat. Everything was unpredictable on what was going to happen next, which is a good thing. I really like how the story unfolded and how everything connected together. I did find you through the Spongebob theories, but I will definitely be staying around for the horror films, this was amazing. Cant wait to see what's next! ❤🎉

[@HandsofLazarus]

Okay so, this is the only video of yours ive ever seen and wow. This is insanely good. I dont know what else to say. This is a masterpiece.

[@natertot736]

Oh man you aren't going to believe it but there's two more of these and a lot more before that

[@autisticOSCfan]

You’ve got a lot to catch up on.

[@HandsofLazarus]

went back and watched all of it. found every connected video, watched all three parts of don't feed the muse, everything. Holy hell is this one of the greatest films ever made, and stories ever written.

[@CheeseSupremeWasntTaken]

Alex you pull that suit off so well. You should wear that all the time everywhere. You could convince people to download raid irl in that suit.

[@ebmario874]

Coming from someone who usually hates horror movies, this is now the second horror movie that I actually like. Outstanding job! A lot of thought went into this.

[@zombiwirdo8]

How did I not know about the existence of this series before?? You guys have done an incredible job. It's amazing how it breaks the fourth wall and makes you get so immersed in the story. It became one of my favorite web series! ¡Saludos desde Argentina! (also I'm SO happy the cat is alive🥹)

[@Nekro_Kura]

Way better than most big studio movies lately. Very exciting and refreshing.

[@macksnotcool]

I'm glad to see this right when this airs and I love everyone in this community. Thank you Alex Bale for creating this.

[@Apr0x1m0]

This has been an interesting journey and seeing typecasting portrait like this for the online scene, nicely done. Ppl dont get that its your work, not theirs. They just enjoying it.

[@XanderRowlet]

I love the use of different aspect ratios throughout. Stellar series as always, Alex

[@JacKAB0Y]

Damn… I know I’m late to this, but this has been one hell of a series. Everything about feels so personal, and the production behind the finale in particular is top notch. I’m so glad that I went through all past material to see this, and I am very excited to see what’s to come, both with your feature film and with this channel ❤️👍

[@messymiss_me]

I rarely leave comments but this is just incredible. Spectacular work! Kept monitoring your channel waiting to see the final part of DFTM. Really looking forward to seeing more of your work! Hope your audience keeps growing, as you're creating something truly unique and distinct. You are incredibly talented!

[@smireniwaifu]

The white limbo is just like in that one episode of... spongebob

[@FadedSoliloquies]

It was nice seeing the Easter egg to Little Shop Of Horrors on the cinema sign. The entire Muse story always seemed very Little Shop Of Horrors inspired so it’s cool to see a quick cameo. This entire thing was amazing and I can’t wait to see what you have in store next!

[@thepumpkin3203]

Glad to see somebody else noticed that, it was a very cool little detail

[@notaperson7986]

Binged the entire series in a day, and omg this is actually great, putting all of these through the spongebob conspiracies was such a good idea. But the actual meaning made me sad, not everybody is going to love what you wanna do, but atleast you'll have fun with it yourself when you do what you want, and I think that this came out amazing :)