One series that has stolen my heart has been a truly surprising one in the form of "Rick and Morty." I must admit, my first impression of the series was not a positive one. I saw an old man burp-talking while drunkenly stumbling around an alien universe. Fortunately, the creators did away with the burp-talking after the first few episodes. It was at the suggestion of a close friend who convinced me to give the show another chance, and I am very thankful I did.
The series turns many common television tropes on their head while offering insightful criticisms of our modern society. Rick Sanchez is a fierce alcoholic and drug addict. He is morally corrupt, despises structured educational institutions, and is an intergalactic criminal to boot. And yet, he is compelling and endearing. There is a love within him, despite how much he has hurt his family. He traverses the universe with his grandchildren: Morty, a pubescent teenage daydreamer, and Summer, an emotionally detached high school senior. The tumultuous marriage of Jerry and Beth (Morty and Summer’s parents) really drives the emotional heart of the story as the viewer witnesses a couple that, by all understanding, should not be together. They fight constantly, have little respect for one another’s professions, and face repeated marital strain. Yet, somehow they maintain their marriage and do the best they can for their family.
The creation of the series itself comes from the brilliantly twisted mind of Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon, who you may know as the writer of “Community” and “The Sarah Silverman Program.” The humor often pushes the boundaries of acceptable television programs. You can expect the same irreverent comedy from Rick and Morty, however, there is an underlying layer to the series that propels it to a new level of entertainment. You may find yourself invested in these characters and almost feel yourself going mad with Morty as he is forced to bury his own body from another dimension. The soundtrack throughout the series is perfectly crafted to fit every mood within the show from party to tragedy.
The series is crude, violent, thought-provoking, and heartfelt. There are numerous literary references and parodies to tie into popular culture. My personal favorite was the second episode of season one in the parody of the Stephen King story: The Lawnmover Man. But under all the madness, there is a light of brilliance which shines through. Something in the way the callous Rick sees his family and works to shape Morty in his own manner is remarkably intelligent in its presentation. It is yet to be seen how Rick’s actions will shape his family from this point forward.
The third season’s premiere is rapidly approaching and the loyal fan base awaits anxiously to see just how the writers will wrap up loose ends following a surprising season two finale. Expected to run for 14 episodes starting sometime in 2017, we will be treated to new wonders and horrors in season three.
Take the opportunity to get Schwifty and check out Rick and Morty. You won’t regret it!
