The Quality of Rick and Morty: Declining or Enduring?

Have you noticed a decline in the quality of Rick and Morty in recent seasons? It's a common sentiment among fans, including myself. While the show's debut episodes continue to hold up impressively, there's a palpable sense that newer episodes have reached a plateau after several viewings.

Take, for instance, the episode Final DeSmithation (605). Full of intriguing concepts such as the Lockerean species, which is a species that eats chaos, its digestive disorder causing super-dense pockets of energy from spacetime to bend entropy, this episode is a marvel of scientific and philosophical thought. However, despite its initial promise, it risks falling flat with repeated viewings.

Is Rick and Morty Still Worth Watching?

While some think Rick and Morty has indeed declined in quality, I believe it retains its magic with a few key caveats. Many episodes, especially the older ones, continue to deliver even after multiple viewings. The essence of the show's brilliance lies not in its initial impact but in its depth upon repeated observations.

Philosophical Depth

A prime example of Rick and Morty's enduring quality can be seen in its philosophical content. Classic episodes often leave you pondering complex questions related to existence and multiverse theory. But with newer episodes, the emphasis on philosophical inquiry takes a backseat, leading to a less satisfying experience.

Intellectual Waste

Is the show truly running out of ideas? The reality is more nuanced. Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland have undoubtedly explored a vast array of character situations and plotlines. At a certain point, every possible scenario is exhausted. However, they manage to continue the show by recycling old ideas with fresh twists. Episodes like Mortyplicity are prime examples of this philosophy in action. Despite Dan's initial resistance, the episode is a masterpiece, a perfect blend of humor and underlying complexity.

Mike Mendel and Rehashed Ideas

The recurring homage to Mike Mendel, one of the original episode writers who passed away, has become a staple. Each episode ends with a tribute card, indicating a lingering idea from the show's early days that never quite found its place. Now, these ideas are making their way into the latest episodes, a testament to the show's resilience and foresight.

Family Storylines

The recent trend of episodes featuring the entire family together highlights another shift in the show's narrative style. Once, Rick and Morty's adventures were intertwined with various subplots. Now, more often than not, the family members are on the same page, leading to a more straightforward storyline. While this change may bore some viewers, for others, it enriches the show with a more cohesive, family-oriented approach.

Continuation and Finality

Am I hopeful for the future of Rick and Morty? Absolutely. Despite the emerging signs of a plateau, the show's core appeal remains intact. It's incredibly satisfying to see new episodes every season, even if some may fall short of expectations. I'm particularly eager to see the resolution of the Rick C-137 and Rick Prime arc, bridging the gap between different timelines and providing a fitting end to the show's current journey.

So while there's a valid argument that Rick and Morty has declined in its originality, the show continues to captivate and entertain. Whether it's philosophical depth, rehashed ideas, or family-based storylines, there's always something to enjoy. Here's to hoping for more episodes filled with wonder and wit.