The Beginning of ‘Rick and Morty”s End?

This very quick (and very old) ‘Rick and Morty’ Season 7 Episode 1 review was originally published on the AnthonyReviews Substack on 11/6/2023. To get the latest AnthonyReviews writing first, subscribe to the newsletter below. It’s free!

Tentatively pessimistic. That’s how viewers likely feel after the premiere of the latest Rick and Morty episode starring newcomers Ian Cardoni and Harry Belden as the titular characters. The two voice actors together have replaced creator/star Justin Roiland after sexual assault allegations, leaving fans and creators alike afraid of what might happen to the show next.

And oh boy, does that fear show on screen! Mr. Poopybutthole (now played by voice actor John Allen) takes center stage in an episode about an intervention gone wrong, composed of Rick and returning gag characters Birdperson, Squanchy, Revolio Clockberg Jr., and Gene. This refocusing leaves very little time with either of our main characters. Gags have become less about Rick’s wit and more about pop culture references with The Hangover level wackiness, a much less interesting type of humor when animators can draw absolutely anything. We’re left with the feeling the show has no faith in typical Rick and Morty gags without Roiland to bring them to life, and are focusing on other characters to distract and ease in their new talent. 

The episode is sci-fi light for our multiverse travelers, outside of a few Rick inventions and the multiversal drugs and pubs binge that inevitably breaks out. Our eyes turn to the story and characterization for entertainment only to see how much is lacking. It’s almost like throwing together a bunch of quick gags and pretending they’re fleshed out characters for a by-the-numbers story of learning to get yourself together was a terrible idea! Harmon’s acolytes appear to have forgotten to implement his famous story circle to craft any worthwhile arc for these characters. 

Lacking witty banter, science fiction, and impactful characterization, this episode has ditched everything we like about Rick and Morty outside of its pseudo-psychedelic animation. This singular episode is the worst of the show’s run so far, leaving us as afraid as the crew is of what Roiland’s departure means for the show’s future.