Rick & Morty’s Needful Things Parody Trumps the Original Film

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In the realm of humorous interpretations, “Rick and Morty” surpasses the cinematic version of Stephen King’s “Needful Things” as a more faithful portrayal of the classic horror novel. Since its inception, “Rick and Morty” has been known for mocking films, with the second episode, “Lawnmower Dog,” poking fun at the dreamscape journeys depicted in both “Inception” and “A Nightmare on Elm Street.” The series has skewered various themes, from the time-traveling robots of “Terminator” to the bothersome facehuggers of “Alien” to the chaotic Jurassic Park theme park. Not limiting itself to science fiction, “Rick and Morty” has also taken aim at horror movies in its parodies.

Although the film references in “Rick and Morty” are top-notch, it’s uncommon for them to outshine the originals. The “Mad Max: Fury Road” episode of “Rick and Morty” is a delightful tribute, but it doesn’t surpass George Miller’s post-apocalyptic masterpiece in terms of action. Morty’s adventure with the Vindicators mimics Marvel movies, but it can’t compare to the superhero antics of “Guardians of the Galaxy” or “Avengers: Infinity War”. However, there is one “Rick and Morty” movie parody from its very first season that completely outdid the original.

Rick & Morty’s Needful Things Spoof Has More Depth & Tension Than The Official Movie Adaptation

“Something Ricked This Way Comes” Is The Best Adaptation Of Needful Things

In the ninth episode of its first season, titled “Something Ricked This Way Comes,” the animated series Rick and Morty paid tribute to the story Needful Things. In this narrative, a man called Leland Gaunt operates an antique shop that peddles strange, supernatural items. These objects grant seemingly beneficial favors such as a charm for alleviating pain or a toy capable of predicting sports outcomes, but they demand a surprising price. In the corresponding episode of Rick and Morty, Summer secures part-time employment at a similar establishment owned by the character Mr. Needful.

The animated series “Rick and Morty” offers a more captivating take on Stephen King’s “Needful Things” compared to the 1993 film adaptation. Although the movie features strong acting and a fulfilling conclusion, it’s generally quite boring to watch. Director Fraser C. Heston falls short in creating tension or developing the simple concept. In contrast, the episode titled “Something Ricked This Way Comes” effectively increases the drama as Summer, working for Mr. Needful, confronts Rick, who acts as a helpful rival. Furthermore, it delves deeper into the cautionary tale of beware what you wish for.

Rick & Morty Should Do More Stephen King Parodies

Imagine A Rick & Morty Version Of Christine Or The Running Man

I firmly believe that Rick and Morty could bring a fresh, hilarious twist to some of Stephen King’s classic stories. For instance, it would be quite intriguing to see a scenario where Morty, similar to the protagonist of ‘The Dead Zone’, gains the power to predict death upon touch. Or perhaps Jerry, reminiscent of the titular car in ‘Christine’, could find himself in possession of a homicidal vehicle seeking revenge against his tormentors.

How about a spoof on ‘Firestarter’ featuring a superpowered Summer, or even a take on ‘The Running Man’ with Space Beth participating in a lethal futuristic game show? I truly think that Rick and Morty has an untapped potential for gold in this area.

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2025-05-01 14:07