Rick and Morty Season 9 Premiere Review: "There's Something About Morty" — A Misstep for Mortys

The much-anticipated ninth season of "Rick and Morty" has officially launched with its premiere episode, "There's Something About Morty," delivering an opening that is undeniably fun, explosive, and brimming with the series' signature brand of chaotic action. Fans eager for more interdimensional escapades will find plenty to enjoy in the fast-paced narrative and inventive scenarios that unfold. The episode is packed with the kind of bombastic set pieces and irreverent humor that have become a hallmark of the Adult Swim hit, ensuring a thrilling ride from start to finish.

However, despite the spectacle and energy, the premiere unfortunately stumbles in its portrayal of one of the show's most central figures: Morty. While Rick's character arc often takes center stage, and his often nihilistic antics drive much of the plot, Morty's development or lack thereof in this episode feels oddly regressive or even mishandled. This isn't to say he's entirely absent or sidelined, but rather that his character feels underserved, failing to either evolve in a meaningful way or resonate with the narrative as deeply as previous seasons have managed. This particular creative choice could prove divisive among the fanbase, with some viewers potentially feeling that the balance between the titular duo is uncharacteristically skewed.

The episode otherwise delivers on its promise of wild adventures and sharp wit, but the treatment of Morty casts a notable shadow. It leaves an impression that while the show's comedic and action-oriented elements are as strong as ever, there might be a subtle but significant misstep in character writing that could influence the overall trajectory of the season. Future episodes will need to address this to ensure that both Rick and Morty receive the nuanced character development that has historically made the series so compelling and emotionally rich, beyond just its surface-level absurdity.