Rick and Morty Season 9 Episode 1 Review: Evil Morty Returns in a Spectacle-Driven but Divisive Episode

Rick and Morty returns with its Season 9 premiere, “There’s Something About Morty,” and it wastes no time looking into high-stakes sci-fi chaos. The episode brings back Evil Morty, one of the series’ most layered and intriguing characters, setting up a story that blends multiversal danger with personal conflict. While the premiere delivers on spectacle and energy, it also introduces creative choices that may not sit well with long-time fans, particularly in how it handles its central antagonist.

The episode opens with a familiar yet evolving dynamic, as Rick reconnects with Evil Morty to take on a multiverse-level threat known as The Collective. At the same time, Morty is forced into the background, struggling with the fear that he is becoming replaceable. This emotional thread runs throughout the episode, giving weight to the otherwise chaotic narrative and grounding it in character-driven tension.

A High-Concept Story Built on Scale and Chaos

At its core, the premiere thrives on its ambitious sci-fi premise. The introduction of The Collective as a reality-consuming force immediately raises the stakes, allowing the episode to explore large-scale destruction and fast-paced action. Rick and Evil Morty working together creates a compelling dynamic, especially during the early stages of the conflict, where their combined intelligence is on full display.

The action sequences are among the strongest elements here, with visually dense battles that push the show’s animation to new limits. From alien worlds to the Bunker Dimension showdown, the episode leans heavily into spectacle, delivering moments that feel bigger and more intense than previous seasons. The anime-inspired energy in certain scenes adds a fresh visual flavor, making the chaos even more engaging.

A still from Rick and Morty Season 9 Episode 1 (Image via Adult Swim)

Evil Morty’s Character Shift Feels Uneven

Despite the strong setup, the biggest issue with the premiere lies in its portrayal of Evil Morty. Previously established as a character driven by independence and a desire to escape the Rick-Morty cycle, he now feels repositioned into a more conventional rival role. His interactions with Rick and Morty suggest a shift toward jealousy and competition rather than calculated detachment.

Some of his dialogue still captures his manipulative nature, especially in moments where he provokes Morty’s insecurities. Lines like “Maybe I will steal your grandpa. But not because I love him, because you do” reinforce his psychological edge, but they also highlight how his motivations feel less defined than before. The complexity that once made him stand out seems slightly diluted in favor of immediate conflict.

Emotional Stakes Still Anchor the Episode

While Evil Morty’s arc may feel inconsistent, Morty himself provides a strong emotional anchor. His insecurity about being replaced adds a relatable layer to the story, contrasting with the larger-than-life sci-fi elements. The diner scene, in particular, stands out as a quieter moment that effectively explores these feelings.

The final act, set in the Bunker Dimension, delivers a climactic battle that blends action with character drama. Rick’s strategic thinking and the eventual resolution provide a satisfying payoff in terms of plot, even if the character dynamics remain somewhat unresolved. The episode balances its chaotic energy with enough emotional beats to keep viewers invested.

“There’s Something About Morty” is an entertaining and visually impressive start to Season 9. It excels in delivering large-scale action, creative set pieces, and the kind of unpredictable storytelling the series is known for. However, its handling of Evil Morty raises concerns about the long-term direction of one of the show’s most compelling characters.