Rick and Morty’s Wildest Pop Culture Parodies: Comic Edition!
When we think of Rick and Morty, we often picture the wild adventures and mind-bending science fiction narratives of the Adult Swim show. But beyond the small screen lies a treasure trove of even zanier escapades, particularly found in the comic series by Oni Press. The comics offer a haven for fans with deeper dives into gut-busting pop culture parodies that never made it to the TV show. Let’s unwrap the best of these cheeky comic nods.
Teenage Mutant Ninja… Otters?
In Rick and Morty Vol. 2 #8, the beloved “heroes in a half shell” get a hilarious revamp. Meet the Kung Fu Godhood Stink-Stink Otters – four otters donning thin masks and wielding signature TMNT weapons. It’s a delightful cross between the nostalgic 90s and the twisted humor Rick and Morty is known for.
Dilbert, But Make It Dark
Long-time readers of the classic Dilbert comic strip might be in for a shock with Rick and Morty’s darker take. Venturing into the “Desks That Eat People” universe, the landscape morphs into a dystopian office nightmare where carnivorous desks are commonplace. A jaded Dilbert-esque character adds to the chaos, drawing parallels to the stark contrast between work mundanity and the lurking dangers of the corporate world.
Sci-Fi Epics Get the Rick and Morty Treatment
Dune’s renaissance in popular culture didn’t go unnoticed by our beloved duo. “Hericktics of Rick” spins the narrative, showcasing a universe where the characters’ lives eerily mirror those in the Dune saga. The attention to detail, combined with hilarious jabs at the Dune series, makes for a must-read.
Dinosaurs and Chaos in Mesozorick Park
Paying homage to the iconic Jurassic Park, the comic adventure in Mesozorick Park takes readers on a thrilling dino-filled ride. With Rick, Morty, and Summer barely escaping the prehistoric chaos, it’s an epic nod to the film classic but with the show’s signature wild twist.
Speedy Pickles and Other Absurdities
One of the most intriguing comic adaptations is the extension of Pickle Rick’s lore. Tapping into DC’s Flash realm, Pickle Rick’s ability to harness the “Sour Force” draws an uncanny resemblance to the Flash’s Speed Force. This entertaining re-imagination of one of the show’s most iconic characters is a testament to the comic series’ brilliance.
Of Dungeons, Dragons, and Dimensional Madness
The lovechild of Rick and Morty and Dungeons & Dragons, the four-part miniseries intertwines both universes seamlessly. With a blend of familiar D&D lore and the show’s zany humor, it’s both an ode and a roasting of the classic role-playing game.
Cosmic Horrors and Sarcastic Jabs
Venturing into Lovecraft’s realm of eldritch horrors, Rick and Morty tackle cosmic dread with their signature sarcasm. The roast of Lovecraft’s expansive mythos underscores its influence, suggesting it now piggybacks off franchises like Rick and Morty for relevance.
Gotta Catch All the Mortys!
Closing our list is a brilliant take on the Pokémon craze. “Pocket Like You Stole It” delves into the multiverse of Ricks capturing wild Mortys, mirroring the essence of Pokémon trainers and their creatures. The satirical lens, however, highlights the brutality within Pokémon’s universe, all through the amusing misadventures of Mortys.
From alternate universes and clever jabs to outright hilarious parodies, the Rick and Morty comics gift fans with moments TV just hasn’t captured (yet). The comics serve as a testament to the series’ depth, ensuring that there’s always a fresh dose of laughter awaiting fans beyond the screen.
