The Groundbreaking Chaos Continues: A Captivating Review of Rick & Morty Season 7

Summary

Rick and Morty season 7 stays true to the show's original formula, winning over reluctant viewers with its fresh and inventive outings.

Justin Roiland's absence has no impact on the show's quality. The premiere centers around Mr. Poopybutthole, while the second episode presents a tumultuous crime adventure featuring Jerry and Rick. This season brings the series back to its original form as a provocative parody of sci-fi shows and sitcoms, but it could enhance its appeal by placing greater emphasis on Morty's narrative.

Rick and Morty season 7 doesn't completely change the show's formula, but it offers a fresh and inventive experience that can appeal to even reluctant returning viewers. Since the end of season 6 in December 2022, there have been significant developments. Justin Roiland, the former star and co-creator, was charged with domestic battery and released from Adult Swim in January 2023. This led to a long search for his replacement, leaving viewers uncertain about the future of the series. However, Rick and Morty season 7 demonstrates that the animated comedy still possesses originality and creativity, even without Roiland voicing the titular heroes.

In the first episode of Rick and Morty season 7, titled "How Poopy Got His Poop Back," the show's usual structure is shaken up. However, there are no meta-jokes acknowledging Roiland's absence in this premiere. Instead, the entire episode focuses on the wild story of Mr. Poopybutthole and other supporting characters embarking on a disastrous night out with Rick. The second episode of the season, "The Jerrick Trap," follows a similarly chaotic narrative, as Jerry and Rick team up for an unpredictable crime adventure. Both of these episodes feel reminiscent of the earlier, more lighthearted seasons of Rick and Morty, which is a positive aspect.

The greatest issue with Rick and Morty seasons 5 and 6 was the inconsistent tone of the show. Episodes that introduced characters like Rick Prime and Evil Morty would imply a serious and dark storyline, suggesting impending tragedy, making the subsequent individual episodes feel trivial, inconsequential, and purposely light-hearted. In this case, any hint of taking itself too seriously has been abandoned in favor of a more lighthearted approach. While this may disappoint viewers who were expecting a resolution to the Rick Prime story, it will be a welcome change for those who miss the carefree and unpredictable nature of Rick and Morty's earlier seasons.

The action sequences in "The Jerrick Trap" and the comedic character development in "How Poopy Got His Poop Back" effectively return Rick and Morty to its original form as a clever and self-aware parody of both science fiction shows and sitcoms. However, despite these strengths, Rick and Morty season 7 has its drawbacks. The momentum of the second episode dwindles around the middle point and slowly heads towards a predictable ending, while the premiere fails to provide substantial storylines for Morty in the latter half of the episode. In fact, Morty takes on a minor role in the first two episodes of the season, and the subsequent episodes could greatly benefit from delving into his narrative.

With that being said, these minor issues are overshadowed by the fact that the series is at its peak once again. Those who expected more drama after the season 5 finale and the introduction of Rick Prime will be surprised by the refreshing return of Rick and Morty in season 7. Despite facing challenges, this animated series makes a strong comeback. The talented supporting voice cast, including Chris Parnell's superb performance in "The Jerrick Trap" and Sarah Chalke's deadpan portrayal of Beth Smith, continue to captivate audiences.

Furthermore, despite the anticipation and speculation surrounding the new voices for Rick and Morty, the surprise lies in the fact that Ian Cardoni and Harry Belden's performances closely resemble Roiland's work. Months ago, the creators promised "Soundalikes," and that is precisely what viewers get. It would be easy to believe that this impersonation of the original show leaves season 7 feeling uncannily similar, but in reality, the series remains true to its essence.

The show's inability to effectively blend serious and introspective moments with its irreverent comedy remains a concern. However, the numerous great jokes in Rick and Morty still manage to outweigh this minor flaw. The pacing of the show remains excellent, although the plot occasionally falls into predictable conclusions. Despite not attempting to alter the show's tone or premise, Season 7 demonstrates that Rick and Morty can still thrive on its own terms after being on the air for a decade. Don't forget to catch the new episodes of Rick and Morty airing on Adult Swim every Sunday at 11 p.m ET.