Rick and Morty Retcons "Wubba Lubba Dub-Dub" Mean: a Deep Dive
Once again shocking viewers with a revelation that alters the perception of a pivotal event from season 1, Rick And Morty, the beloved animated series noted for its erratic twists and turns, has surprised us. Celebrating a decade of Smith family adventures, the 10th Anniversary Special throws fresh light on the notorious catchphrase, "Wubba Lubba Dub-dub-Dub," and how it has been misused over years.
Rick's Catchphrase: Not a Cry for Help?
In the first season episode "Ricksy Business," Rick's old friend Birdperson tells Rick's often used phrase—which is actually a cry for help—is "I am in great pain, please help me." This disclosure was important since it shed light on Rick's inner conflicts and his escape from his existential anxiety by means of partying.
Still, the Tenth Anniversary Special gently reinterpreted this event. Rick notes "Wubba Lubba Dub-Dub, but the way Birdperson meant it," as he packs his garage. This apparently benign line suggests that, at least not before now, Rick never meant the phrase as a sincere cry for help. According to the special, Rick's default intention and the phrase have personal meaning for him. When he really needs assistance, he makes clear expression of it.
"Wubba Lubba Dub-Dub"—A Meaningless Phrase
The special also throws a wrench in the "Ricksy Business" revelation by implying that Morty was correct when he said Rick used the phrase ironically. Rick obviously is in emotional pain, but he still sees "Wubba Lubba Dub-Dub" as a useless catchphrase. This insight gives Rick's character more complexity and accentuates his mystery and unpredictability.
Rick and Morty: The Art of Undermining Notable Events
Rick And Morty has subverted important story points and character reveals before this as well. The show depends on challenging audience expectations. Among these are Rick's apparently self-sacrificing surrender to the Galactic Federation, only to find it was part of his strategy, and the cosmic rift finally sealed by dinosaurs. The series regularly questions the accepted story line, adding still another level of comic appeal.
The Worth of the Tenth Anniversary Special
Through its subtle retconning of "Wubba Lubba Dub-Dub," the 10th Anniversary Special shows how dynamically changing even apparently fundamental events in Rick and Morty's past can be. The particular emphasizes how deftly written and unpredictably told the show can surprise and delight its audience. This particular reminds us that in the realm of Rick and Morty, nothing is ever really fixed. It is evidence of the show's commitment to challenge preconceptions and ongoing redefining of its universe.
