A feature-length Rick and Morty movie is officially gaining momentum, with Warner Bros. moving forward on early development plans. The studio is reportedly in talks with longtime series director Jacob Hair to helm the project, signaling a creative decision to keep the film closely tied to the show’s original vision.
The announcement comes as the Emmy-winning animated series continues to dominate television, with its ninth season set to premiere soon. With multiple renewals already secured, the move toward a theatrical adaptation reflects the franchise’s growing influence and long-term viability.
A Director From Within the Show
Rather than seeking an outside filmmaker, the team behind Rick and Morty appears to be relying on familiar talent. Jacob Hair, who has directed episodes since 2019 and currently serves as supervising director, is in discussions to lead the project. This approach has been confirmed by co-creator Dan Harmon, who emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity.
Speaking in an interview with CinemaBlend, Harmon stated,
“Jacob Hair is the director. We didn’t shop around.”
His comment suggests a deliberate effort to preserve the tone and style that have defined the series since its debut. By choosing someone already embedded in the show’s production, the creators aim to avoid the creative disconnect that often occurs in adaptations.
Early Development With Limited Plot Details
While the project is confirmed to be in development, details about the story remain under wraps. This is not unusual for a film at this stage, particularly one based on a long-running series known for its unpredictable narratives.
Rick and Morty, created by Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland, first premiered in 2013 and quickly became one of Adult Swim’s most successful properties. The show follows the chaotic adventures of scientist Rick Sanchez and his grandson Morty, blending science fiction with dark humor and philosophical themes.
Despite the lack of plot information, expectations are already high given the show’s track record. Over the years, it has consistently ranked among the most-watched comedies on basic cable, building a global fanbase.
Harmon’s Vision for the Big Screen
Harmon has previously shared insights into how the film might approach storytelling. In a 2023 interview to The Hollywood Reporter, he explained that the movie would not necessarily reinvent the formula but rather expand it.
“My philosophy would be to just take a Rick and Morty adventure, and spend a bunch of extra money on it and make it 90 minutes long,”
Harmon said. He added that the goal is not to dramatically shift tone but to create
“a super badass episode of Rick and Morty”
with a larger scale.
This approach aligns with what fans expect from the franchise, focusing on spectacle and storytelling rather than drastic changes. It also reflects a growing trend in animated adaptations, where studios aim to extend existing narratives rather than reinvent them entirely.
The film project arrives during a period of expansion for the Rick and Morty universe. In addition to its ongoing seasons, the franchise is branching out with new content, including the upcoming spinoff series President Curtis, featuring voice actor Keith David.
The series itself has also undergone changes in recent years, including recasting its lead voice roles after Adult Swim parted ways with Justin Roiland in 2023. Despite these shifts, the show has maintained its popularity, demonstrating its resilience and adaptability.