Rick and Morty: The Anime (Blu-ray Review)
Directed By: Takashi Sano
Rated: UR/Region A/2:40/1080p/Number of Discs 1
Available from Warner Brothers
Rick and Morty: The Anime is a bold and stylistically rich reimagining of the original series that manages to carve out its own identity while honoring the chaotic heart of the franchise. Directed by Takashi Sano, this anime adaptation doesn’t just transplant the characters into a new art style — it immerses them in a uniquely Japanese storytelling approach that emphasizes existential themes, emotional depth, and wild, high-concept sci-fi madness.
Visually, the show is stunning. The animation shifts fluidly between intense action sequences and quiet, introspective moments, delivering a tone that feels more cinematic than the original. The character designs are faithful but refreshed, with Rick’s unhinged genius and Morty’s anxious energy both coming through in new, compelling ways.
Narratively, the anime leans into anthology-style episodes that explore alternate timelines and variations of Rick and Morty, which frees it from the continuity constraints of the main show. This opens the door to some wildly creative storytelling — some episodes are absurd and hilarious, while others are surprisingly poignant and philosophical.
What makes Rick and Morty: The Anime work is its willingness to be different. It’s not just a novelty for fans; it’s a legitimate expansion of the universe with its own voice. While not every episode hits the mark, and some viewers might miss the fast-paced, reference-heavy humor of the original, this series is a must-watch for fans open to seeing the multiverse through a different lens.
