Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Let's be crystal clear: Rick And Morty is NOT a kids' show. Yes, it's animated. Yes, teens are obsessed with it. But this is graphic, profane, sexually explicit, violent adult content that happens to be drawn.

That said, it IS brilliant. The sci-fi creativity is genuinely exceptional, the multiverse concepts are mind-bending, and beneath all the burping and cynicism, there are actually thoughtful explorations of existentialism, family trauma, and mental health. The TMDB rating of 8.7 reflects that adults find it compelling.

The problem for families: it models terrible behavior (alcoholism, emotional abuse, nihilism) and wraps philosophical concepts in so much crude humor and graphic content that the educational value is questionable. If you have a 17-year-old who wants to watch it, you could have interesting conversations about the themes—but be prepared for A LOT of content you'd rather they not see.

Bottom line: This belongs on a list of 'shows teens will watch behind your back' rather than 'shows to recommend for family viewing.' The WISE score reflects that it's imaginative but fails almost every other criterion for youth media.

Age Fit

This is for mature older teens (17+) and adults only. The animation format is deceptive—this has graphic adult content that would be rated R if it were live-action. Younger teens will definitely try to watch it (and many do), but parents should know what they're getting into.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

15

Rick And Morty actively models nihilism, alcoholism, and dysfunctional family dynamics as its core premise. Rick is an emotionally abusive, alcoholic grandfather who regularly endangers Morty. The show features dark humor, cynicism, and explicitly rejects traditional wholesome values as part of its comedic identity. Characters regularly belch, vomit, and engage in cruel behavior toward each other.

Imaginative

92

Exceptionally creative sci-fi worldbuilding with infinite dimensions, bizarre alien civilizations, and wildly inventive sci-fi concepts. Each episode explores unique premises—alternate realities, body-swapping, miniature universes, interdimensional cable. The show is genuinely original and pushes creative boundaries in animated storytelling, inspiring fan theories and creative engagement.

Safe

8

Contains graphic violence (often played for laughs but still explicit), sexual content, nudity, drug/alcohol abuse, profanity, body horror, gore, and disturbing psychological themes. Characters die violently on screen regularly. Rick is shown drinking constantly and the show includes references to suicide, existential dread, and trauma. This is definitively NOT safe for children and would be shocking/inappropriate if viewed unexpectedly.

Enriching

48

Despite its nihilistic surface, the show does explore complex philosophical concepts—multiverse theory, existentialism, consciousness, free will, and family dysfunction. Some episodes offer genuine emotional depth and commentary on mental health, toxic relationships, and finding meaning. However, these themes are wrapped in so much cynicism and crude humor that the enrichment value is significantly diminished. More likely to spark conversations about philosophy than model healthy behavior.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely innovative sci-fi concepts and multiverse storytelling that's unlike anything else on TV
Surprisingly deep philosophical themes about existence, meaning, and family dysfunction beneath the crude humor
Could spark interesting conversations with mature teens about nihilism, mental health, and finding purpose
The creativity and imagination in worldbuilding is legitimately exceptional
High entertainment value for adults who appreciate dark, cerebral comedy

⚠

What to Watch For

This is ADULT content—graphic violence, sexual content, nudity, constant profanity, and drug/alcohol abuse throughout
Rick is an alcoholic who models terrible behavior and emotionally abuses his grandson—this is played for laughs but is genuinely disturbing
Nihilistic worldview and cynical humor that could be psychologically heavy for teens already struggling with depression or anxiety
Body horror, gore, and disturbing imagery despite the cartoon format
The 'kids mode' flag is misleading—no part of this show is appropriate for children

Conversation Starters

"What do you think about Rick's philosophy that nothing matters? Do you agree or disagree?"
"How does the show portray family relationships? Is that realistic or exaggerated?"
"If infinite universes exist, does that make our choices meaningless or more meaningful?"
"Why do you think Morty keeps going on adventures with Rick even though Rick treats him badly?"
"What's the difference between dark humor and just being cruel?"

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