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As any pop culture explorer will attest, some of the most famous modern television shows carve out their niche by appealing to a specific demographic.
Take Adult Swim’s critically acclaimed animated series, Rick and Morty, for example.
Created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon, it combined the right amount of slapstick humor, cutting-edge science concepts and meta-commentary to appeal to viewers – including, in particular, a group known as “stoners”
We’ve come today to delve into how the psychedelic visuals, philosophical underpinnings and absurdity of Rick and Morty have made it the show of choice for stoner.
In order to understand this intimate relationship, it is necessary to decipher the components that make up the culture of the addict.
In this context, the term “stoner” refers to someone who enjoys using marijuana in a recreational manner, often with characteristics such as being laid back, prone to deep philosophical reflection, and appreciating alternative, surreal humor.
These are all elements that “Rick and Morty” brilliantly incorporates into the narrative.
The show follows the eccentric, alcoholic scientist Rick Sanchez and his good-hearted but easily manipulated grandson Morty Smith as they embark on multiverse-hopping adventures.
The distinct contrast between Rick’s cynical, reckless persona and Morty’s naïve, anxious one helps ground the narrative, balancing chaos and order.
This paradox is something that stoners often relate to, as their experiences with cannabis can result in similar dichotomies: the intoxicating thrill of altering perception paired with the introspective journey it can incite.
One of the show’s standout elements is its trippy, psychedelic animation, a trait particularly appealing to stoners.
Not only does “Rick and Morty” feature various inter-dimensional realities, but it also consistently displays a vibrant color palette and visually striking, often grotesque, alien species and worlds.
These elements mirror the hallucinogenic experience often associated with cannabis and other psychedelics, making the show a visual feast for the stoner’s heightened senses.
Moreover, the show’s narrative is open about addressing profound existential themes.
In one episode, we see Morty coming to terms with his inconsequentiality in the grand cosmic scheme, while in another, Rick openly questions the purpose of existence.
These narratives often veer into nihilism, a philosophical viewpoint that argues life lacks inherent meaning.
This depth of thought might resonate with stoners, who often find themselves contemplating similar existential quandaries under the influence of cannabis.
Humor is another cornerstone of “Rick and Morty,” and one that aligns perfectly with the stoner demographic.
The show is replete with slapstick moments, dry wit, and dark humor, but the surreal, absurd comedy hits the bullseye with stoners.
From a planet powered by a miniature civilization inside a battery to an alien race called Cromulons who host a cosmic reality show titled “Get Schwifty,” “Rick and Morty” is an absurdist masterclass.
This dovetails nicely with the altered state of consciousness often experienced by stoners, where the line between the normal and the bizarre blurs, making the absurd feel hilariously relatable.
An underappreciated aspect of the show is its ingenious use of music and sound.
Composer Ryan Elder’s catchy tunes and eccentric soundscapes often enhance the psychedelic experience of the show.
Signature tracks like “Get Schwifty” or “Goodbye Moonmen” are comedic gold and possess a hypnotic quality that resonates with the stoner’s affinity for music that stimulates their altered sensory experiences.
The creators of “Rick and Morty” have, perhaps unintentionally, made a show that resonates deeply with the stoner community.
By creating a universe that marries the profound with the absurd, the visually stunning with the grotesque, and the nihilistic with the comedic, they’ve tapped into a demographic that appreciates such a cocktail of experiences.
Stoner or not, “Rick and Morty” ‘s success is undoubtedly in its ability to balance light-hearted humor and thought-provoking narratives.
Its appeal to stoners underscores the show’s ability to cater to a wide range of audiences, making it a fascinating subject for cultural exploration.
Ultimately, “Rick and Morty” is a wild, cosmic ride worth hopping onto, no matter your preferred state of consciousness.
