Overview of Season 1
“Rick and Morty” is an animated science fiction sitcom created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon. The series, which premiered in 2013, follows the misadventures of an eccentric and reckless scientist, Rick Sanchez, and his good-hearted but easily influenced grandson, Morty Smith. The first season introduces viewers to the dynamics between the characters while delivering memorable comedic moments and philosophical explorations of existential themes. This season is characterized by its unique storytelling, absurd humor, and blend of science fiction with family drama, setting the stage for the show’s later developments.
Episode Summary: “Something Ricked This Way Comes”
“Something Ricked This Way Comes” is the ninth episode of “Rick and Morty” Season 1. The episode begins with Rick and Morty visiting a local pawn shop where Rick wants to sell a mysterious item. However, the focus quickly shifts when Morty’s schoolmates mention a new shop in town run by “Evil Morty” — a character that captures the imagination of fans for his complexity and depth.
The episode cleverly intertwines two separate but related story arcs. The primary plot follows Morty’s budding relationship with the shop, which he initially finds intriguing. This shop, run by the diabolical “Evil” version of Morty, specializes in magical items that ultimately have dark consequences. Morty is drawn to the idea of owning a powerful magical object, and that’s when he purchases a cursed item — a cursed doll.
Meanwhile, Rick is focused on proving how ridiculous the whole concept of “evil” is. He becomes increasingly involved in a battle against the manipulative shopkeeper, ultimately pitting his intelligence and skills against this figure, who seems to have a vendetta against the Sanchez family. As the situation escalates, it becomes evident that the more Morty interacts with the cursed doll, the more he is pulled into a web of emotional manipulation and dependence.
The encounter between Rick and Evil Morty serves as a strong commentary on the nature of identity and morality. While Rick constantly brushes off emotional connections, the contrasting pulls of Morty’s relationship with the cursed doll highlight his struggles with loyalty, trust, and the worth of personal connections. Evil Morty’s voice serves as both a commentary on Morty’s own darker impulses and as a mirror reflecting who he could become if he didn’t have Rick guiding him.
As the episode progresses, the stakes heighten when Evil Morty’s machinations are revealed. He seeks to reclaim Morty’s soul, using the doll as an anchor to solidify his power. Morty’s eventual realization that he has been manipulated is a turning point, leading him to confront the consequences of his actions. The encounter escalates into a battle of wits and wills, showcasing Rick’s scientific acumen against the dark arts practiced by Evil Morty.
Ultimately, the episode is about the confrontation between good and evil, both within oneself and in the relationships we form. By the end, Morty learns a valuable lesson about the importance of being discerning when it comes to magical promises and temptations. Rick, on the other hand, demonstrates his enduring commitment to his grandson, even as he presents it in his typically harsh and sardonic manner.
In conclusion, “Something Ricked This Way Comes” stands out as a critical episode, offering both comedic moments and deeper reflections on morality, identity, and choice. It perfectly encapsulates the essence of “Rick and Morty,” marrying humor with themes that resonate with viewers on a larger scale. As Season 1 nears its conclusion, this episode solidifies the idea that family dynamics and personal identity will remain central elements throughout the series, inviting viewers to ponder what it means to navigate this universe full of chaos, wonder, and, yes, a little evil.

