Warning: Spoilers ahead for Rick and Morty season 7, episode 2.
Summary
In episode 2 of season 7, Rick and Morty showcase an inventive body swap storyline, introducing an unexpected duo that injects a revitalizing touch to the series. By intertwining Rick and Jerry's minds, the episode reveals their surprising similarities and finally grants them an equal opportunity to shine.
The unexpected twist in the storyline brings back the show's early seasons' subversive and silly writing, adding an element of unpredictability and enjoyment.
Although Rick and Morty season 7, episode 2 revolves around a clever body swap plot, it is the show's inventive use of an unlikely pairing that truly shines. While the focus is usually on the dynamic between Rick and Morty, the show occasionally deviates from this formula. For instance, in one episode of season 4, Summer joins Rick and Morty on an adventure, while another episode explores Beth's relationship with her father, with Morty taking a secondary role. However, it would be logical for Rick and Morty season 7 to bring back the spotlight to the show's original heroes.
Rick & Morty Season 7 Reinvents Jerry & Rick’s Dynamic
Despite the recasting of both title characters in Rick and Morty season 7, the creators have chosen not to prioritize continuity and maintain the status quo. Instead, episode 2 of the season, "The Jerrick Trap," introduces an unexpected pairing that has had minimal on-screen collaboration in the past. This episode brings Rick and his son-in-law, Jerry, together, but their connection feels revitalized due to an ingenious plot device.In "The Jerrick Trap" episode of Rick and Morty, the Rick/Jerry body swap narrative takes an unconventional turn. Rather than a prolonged switch, the characters experience mere moments of swapping before Rick takes drastic measures by shooting himself and Jerry meets his demise shortly after. This unexpected twist, reminiscent of the approach in season 7 episode 1, delves into an intriguing exploration. Throughout a majority of the episode, Rick and Jerry's consciousnesses merge within two bodies, blurring the lines between their individual identities. As a result, their shared adventure reveals striking similarities between the two characters, illustrating that they are not as dissimilar as they initially appear.
Jerry and Rick have been in pairs in previous episodes of Rick and Morty, such as season 6's "Final DeSmithation" and season 3's "The Whirly Dirly Conspiracy." However, in these episodes, Rick assists Jerry with his intellect. In a refreshing change of pace, "The Jerrick Trap" puts the two on an equal playing field. Similar to the post-credits scene in season 7 of Rick and Morty, this unexpected turn brings back the delightfully unconventional writing style of earlier seasons. While recent episodes revisited the familiar dynamic between Jerry and Rick, "The Jerrick Trap" adds an element of unpredictability to the series.
"The Jerrick Trap" Proves Rick & Jerry Need To Be Paired More Often
If Rick and Morty season 7 can explore fresh ways to delve into the complex dynamic between Rick and Jerry, as exemplified in "The Jerrick Trap," the show should revisit this unexpectedly successful pairing. While many episodes of Rick and Morty involve Rick and Jerry incessantly griping about each other, "The Jerrick Trap" takes this familiar trope and transforms it into something novel. It appears that Justin Roiland's departure is precisely what Rick and Morty season 7 required to revitalize itself, and the show should continue to defy conventions. In order to achieve that, Rick and Morty needs more of these unconventional and surreal storylines.