A New Perspective on a Modern Hit

Rick and Morty first introduced an anime adaptation in 2020 with a set of shorts that explored different facets of the multiverse. These shorts, though separate from the main series, offered fresh perspectives but were never fully developed. Notably, two of these shorts, directed by Takashi Sano—who also directed the first season of the Tower of God anime—stood out significantly and were immensely popular among fans. Due to this positive reception, Adult Swim decided to commission a full spin-off series in Sano’s anime style.

Rick and Morty: The Anime is the result of a collaboration between Adult Swim, Takashi Sano, Telecom Animation Film, and Sola Entertainment. This spin-off series is distinct from the original shorts but retains their experimental nature. What fans appreciated about the original Rick and Morty was its unique approach compared to other adult animated series, and the anime adaptation maintains this distinct personality, presenting it through an entirely new anime lens.

The characters from the original series return in Rick and Morty: The Anime, but they are portrayed differently than fans might expect. There are hints that these characters are from the C-137 universe, technically making them the same as those in the main series. However, the storytelling takes a new direction under Sano’s perspective. The primary concept of Rick and Morty: The Anime is to reimagine familiar ideas and characters through the scope of anime.

For instance, the premiere episode explores the theme of time travel but isn’t solely focused on it. Similar to the original series, Morty experiences multiple lives simultaneously while playing a VR game invented by Rick. Unlike the original series, which often used such scenarios for comedic effect, the anime hones in on the emotional aspect of Morty’s multiple lives.

New characters are introduced in some of Morty’s alternate lives, and these experiences are interconnected in a non-linear sequence. The narrative flows without interruptions for jokes or dialogue that might break the immersion. This approach is consistent throughout the anime, which focuses more on its science-fiction concepts and the stories they tell, rather than finding humor in them.

Adjusting to this new version of Rick and Morty may take some time for many viewers. The anime lacks some of the rougher comedic edges of the original series, but it is not devoid of humor entirely. There are subtle, dialogue-driven jokes reminiscent of the main series, but none disrupt the narrative purely for comedic effect. Rick and Morty: The Anime is dedicated to its storytelling and avoids unnecessary detours.

Visually, Rick and Morty: The Anime is an impressive series. While the original animated sitcom wasn’t considered a visual masterpiece, its eccentric designs translate well into this new anime format. It feels as if these designs were initially intended for an anime presentation. The anime breathes new life into familiar characters and introduces new ones that seamlessly blend into the established world of Rick and Morty. Ultimately, it depends on the kind of Rick and Morty experience viewers seek.

Rick and Morty: The Anime remains true to the essence of Rick and Morty. It explores known characters and introduces new concepts that expand their personalities within a more fluid art style not available in the original series. However, if viewers are looking for Rick’s nonchalant humor and the wild outcomes typical of the main series, this anime version might not fulfill that desire. Nonetheless, it offers a unique experience worth exploring for those interested in broadening their understanding of what Rick and Morty can be.

Rick and Morty: The Anime premieres on Adult Swim on August 15th at midnight.

Source: ComicBook