Rick and Morty season 5, episode 8, "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort," fleshes out Rick and Birdperson's complicated friendship and the damage it's sustained over the years, ruining it in the end; however, in doing so, the story actually makes their relationship better. The animated series' latest installment follows Rick as he journeys inside Birdperson's mind in a last-ditch attempt to save him from impending death. It's an illuminating solo quest for Rick, expanding on past versions of himself and shared experiences with his winged friend.
As touching and sentimental as "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort" is, it also chronicles some of the obstacles that the two pals have faced, and are still dealing with, in their relationship. There's the initial fallout after Rick's revelation about how "nothing matters" if he has access to infinite dimensions, as well as the more recent conflict over Rick's lie of omission regarding the existence of Birdperson's child. These are sad Rick and Morty moments to watch, not only out of compassion for both characters but also because Birdperson is such a likable fan-favorite character. His involvement in the series is always a plus, and a strained relationship with Rick will likely decrease it.
But, despite being uncomfortable, these scenes actually make the friendship even better. When Birdperson turns down Rick's offer to embark on whatever interdimensional adventure they decide on, he shows strong conviction in his response. He tells Rick, "The relationship that we have is not worth my integrity." Rick extends the invitation with sincerity and genuine affection, but, now that Birdperson knows the truth, he isn't willing to keep their current relationship going the way it's been. Not only that, but he seems displeased that Rick helped him win the Battle of Blood Ridge while feeling that "none of it matters." It's actually a very healthy choice for Birdperson to put the relationship, as it was, on hold once he becomes privy to all of this. For a pleasantly silly and irreverent series, season 5, episode 8 of Rick and Morty illustrates commendable boundaries between friends.
And Birdperson's reaction is certainly understandable, as is his disappointment with Rick after finding out that his friend secretly held onto the knowledge of his child. Birdperson's decision to take a break from spending time with him is, once again, justified. And it's good that he advocates for himself and communicates his issues with Rick, rather than staying best friends with him simply for the adventures and good times they have. Rick often pushes people — especially his family — into doing things. He's given too wide of a berth, usually to everyone's detriment. It's good to see some pushback regarding his antics.
This isn't the first time that season 5 of Rick and Morty has dealt with relationship boundaries. Earlier in the season, Beth and Jerry seem to have briefly realized that they had unhealthy dynamics with their kids. And, though there hasn't been much follow-through, they did take a stab at laying down some ground rules and standards for respect from Morty and Summer. As usual, this season has been undeniably goofy — with plots dealing in concepts like man-eating sperm cells. But Rick and Morty has also had some sincere and semi-serious moments recently, as well, and "Rickternal Friendshine of the Spotless Mort" showcases this trend.