‘Rick And Morty’ Went Full ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’
by Frank Martin
It’s amazing how often various styles and influences crossover with each other. This is especially true in versatile science fiction shows that aren’t afraid to push the bounds of their storytelling. From creator Dan Harmon, Rick and Morty is a master of this as it’s multi-dimensional, meta, and sci-fi antics allow ample opportunity to explore concepts made famous by other stories and shows. In terms of one episode, Rick and Morty essentially became Avatar: The Last Airbender … if just for a moment.
The episode, “Planetina” is a direct parody of Captain Planet and it does a great job commenting on the concept of Captain Planet if he were placed in today’s society. It goes for a more cynical approach by having the kids who summon the hero becoming corrupted by corporatism. The plot line becomes ridiculous as Morty forms of romantic relationship with Planetina — the Captain Planet analogue — but she’s essentially enslaved by the story’s version of Planeteers. Their rings allow them to control their respective elements. Morty battles them with their own powers, which creates a very impressive fight sequence that looks like something straight out of Avatar.
Other than both being animation, Rick and Morty has very little crossover with AtLA. Both shows are meant for a completely different audience and have completely different storytelling tones and characterizations. Yes, Rick and Morty is undoubtedly a huge homage to all forms of fiction. This is especially true of genre fiction that sci-fi and fantasy fans would enjoy. So it’s still completely in line with the series to take up a trademark fighting style from a different show. Despite being a sci-fi comedy, Rick and Morty does a surprising job displaying great action. In this episode, that action just happened to greatly emulate Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Rick and Morty is now streaming on Max.
