Rick and Morty, created by Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland, is a show that constantly pushes the boundaries of animated television. The seventh season of the show follows the same pattern and combines science fiction with philosophical exploration, all wrapped in layers of dark humor and absurdity. The season takes the audience on another interdimensional journey, filled with intricate plotlines, character development, and meta-commentary on the nature of existence itself.
One of the standout features of Rick and Morty has always been its ability to balance humor with deeper themes, and the seventh season is no exception. From the opening episode, the series tackles existential crises and moral quandaries while delivering its signature brand of irreverent comedy. Each episode offers a fresh perspective on the complexities of human (and alien) existence, whether it's exploring the consequences of Rick's reckless behavior or delving into Morty's internal struggles.
The seventh season experiments with storytelling formats, introducing several episodes that break away from the norm. The show's structure typically follows an episodic format, but this season adds Rashomon-style narratives and alternate reality simulations, adding a layer of unpredictability to the series.
Furthermore, the seventh season fleshes out the supporting cast, giving characters like Summer, Jerry, and Beth more opportunities to shine. The writers explore their motivations, fears, and desires, transforming them into fully realized individuals with their own arcs and storylines. This expansion of the show's universe adds depth and richness to the overall narrative, making the viewer's investment in the characters all the more rewarding.
At the heart of Rick and Morty is the dynamic between its titular characters. The seventh season delves deeper into their dysfunctional relationship, showcasing moments of genuine connection and vulnerability while exposing the cracks beneath the surface. Rick's nihilistic worldview clashes with Morty's idealism, leading to conflicts that are both comedic and poignant. Their adventures together serve as a backdrop for exploring themes of family, identity, and the search for meaning in an indifferent universe.
Visually, the seventh season is stunning, with the animation team pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of adult animation. From the intricate designs of alien landscapes to the fluidity of the action sequences, each frame is a feast for the eyes. The attention to detail is remarkable, with subtle visual gags hidden throughout each episode, rewarding repeat viewings.
However, the seventh season is not without its flaws. While the show's willingness to tackle complex themes is commendable, there are moments when it feels like the writers are trying too hard to be profound, resulting in episodes that come across as heavy-handed or pretentious. Additionally, some episodes suffer from pacing issues, with certain plotlines feeling rushed or underdeveloped.
Despite these minor setbacks, the seventh season of Rick and Morty remains a triumph of animated television. Its blend of humor, intellect, and emotional depth sets it apart from its peers, offering a viewing experience that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. With its seventh season, Rick and Morty continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of animated storytelling, cementing its status as a modern classic.
Rick and Morty Season 7 is a wild ride from start to finish, offering a perfect balance of humor, heart, and existential dread. Fans of the series will find plenty to love here, from the clever writing to the stunning animation. While it may not be without its flaws, Season 7 proves that Rick and Morty remains at the top of its game, delivering a viewing experience that is truly out of this world.
- 10 Inside the Episodes (Featurettes) – Take a deeper look into each of the ten episodes from the season.
- Directing Unmortricken (Featurette) - Jacob Hair walks us through the challenges of making one of the most ambitious and action-packed episodes in the series history, centered on the climatic showdown between Rick and his arch-nemesis.
- The Characters of Season 7 - A wide-ranging look at how the character team crafted this season’s most impressive and challenging new designs. For example, how did the team create Jerricky, which consists of fusing two iconic characters together.
- Inside Season 7- A deep dive on S7’s biggest story shifts and reveals, plus an overall look at the making of the season from the perspective of various members of the crew.