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Managing editor & film and television critic with a Bachelor's of Arts in English Literature with a Writing Minor from the University of Guam. Currently in graduate school completing a Master's in English Literature.
Following his arrest and escape from the Galactic Federation, alcoholic mad scientist Rick Sanchez and his grandson Morty Smith continue their series of mishaps and adventures. Here is a review on the season’s fourth episode titled Vindicators 3: The Return of Worldender.
Warning: Possible spoilers ahead!
Plot Summary
The titular grandfather and his grandson are called upon to partake in a Guardians of the Galaxy-esque mission in space and learn a good lesson about nihilism along the way. The group sets out to take on a great evil that can end all worlds, only to come across a more dangerous threat to the cosmos.
Community alum Gillian Jacobs makes a guest appearance as the voice of Supernova, and rapper Logic guest appears as himself.
https://twitter.com/Logic301/status/896854355000864770
Discussion
This episode teaches the audience that “to fight darkness is to fight yourself.” It also drives the show forward by reiterating how almost nothing bears any meaning or importance to Rick. As the group risks their lives through Saw-like tests, he and Morty learn that some things in the universe have little-to-no value and that it is better to just have fun.
This episode of Rick and Morty also pokes fun at the Marvel Comics superhero team, Guardians of the Galaxy. The Vindicators include a diverse group of heroes who share no common interest except to save the universe:
Vance Maximus Renegade Star Soldier is similar to Peter Quill/ Starlord; both have a catchy code name and can look good while flying with a jetpack. Supernova shares somewhat a similar resemblance to Nebula, and both have names that deal with astronomy. Alan Rails has a strength akin to that of Drax the Destroyer, Million Ant Man can change his shape and size as well as evoke poignant feelings like Groot, and Crocubot has similar physical attributes to Rocket Raccoon.
Also, Noob Noob serves a role similar to that of Peter Parker/ Spider-Man, working his way up into the group, but still being perceived as inferior.
Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland’s Rick and Morty is back on Cartoon Network’s nighttime programming block Adult Swim this summer with its third season. For more Rick and Morty-related news and reviews, follow Geek Motivation on Twitter (@GEEKMOTIVATION) and Instagram (@geekmotivation).
Written by: John Tangalin
Managing editor & film and television critic with a Bachelor's of Arts in English Literature with a Writing Minor from the University of Guam. Currently in graduate school completing a Master's in English Literature.
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