My Little Pony Friendship is Magic
- Thread starter Mijzelffan
- Start date
I WIN AGAIN SMASHER NOW I DEMAND A PRIZESmasher said:
I mentioned this on the "notable things done today" topic, but I just went to my first Brony meet-up today! The guy organizing it and other meet-ups is the VIP relations guy for BroNY Con, and he's a pretty cool guy. We didn't do much, just introduced ourselves, talked about our favorite ponies, and about possible future meet-ups. The next one is likely to involve laser tag!
My group's meet-up was mentioned in the last nightly round-up on Equestria Daily!
http://www.equestriadaily.com/2012/05/nightly-roundup-328.html
Here's the picture we took last night:
I'm the one giving the thumbs-up!
http://www.equestriadaily.com/2012/05/nightly-roundup-328.html
Here's the picture we took last night:
I'm the one giving the thumbs-up!
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
I watched a couple more episodes today. And I kind of like it. But I wouldn't call myself a brony. I've gotten hooked onto the theme song too.
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
Nabber said:
Coincidentally, that's one of the episodes I saw today.
SonicMario
Star Spirit
Jeff said:
That's alright Jeff. You're only a Brony if you want to be called one. Though I like to think a Brony is someone who enjoys the show and is willing to talk with others who also enjoy it. Especially if they join specific sites made just for the fans of the show or post actively in threads for it and actively discuss the show and their favorite parts of it, joins interesting discussions, creates works of art, fiction, or media based on the show, or anything else they can contribute
I imagine you consider yourself a more casual fan? Kind of how I am towards Adventure Time or Regular Show (I like those shows, but I don't commonly go out of my way to see the next episode. Maybe I would if I had more then one TV that has Dish. But as of now I don't really care for Adventure Time or Regular Show enough to ask if I can borrow the TV for the new episode nor do I have interest in catching them online)
Though I do find it interesting you got hooked on the theme song. I don't normally see many people who say that, even among the Bronies I know.
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
Maybe I'm more of an honorary brony instead of an official one. I do (or rather I did before the company claimed copyrights on the episodes put on YouTube) watch a show similar to MLP:FIM. But hey, no use crying over spilled milk.
Anyway, I'm planning on watching some of the Cutie Mark Crusader episodes and I saw you guys discussing an episode or story arc where the ponies turn evil, or start acting the opposite. Could anybody give me the episode title?
Anyway, I'm planning on watching some of the Cutie Mark Crusader episodes and I saw you guys discussing an episode or story arc where the ponies turn evil, or start acting the opposite. Could anybody give me the episode title?
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
Thanks Nabber.
SonicMario
Star Spirit
Jeff said:
Oh neat. I'd suggest you see Call of the Cutie as it was their official introduction. And then probably see Cutie Mark Chronicles or any CMC episode in Season 2. Because while Stare Master and Show Stoppers aren't too bad they're not exactly considered gems.
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
Just watched the two you metioned.
Assuming Apple Bloom is silll a "Blank Flank", I hope she gets her Cutie Mark soon.
Cutie Mark Chronicles was awesome, it reminds me of a TMNT episode. Nice to see some backstory to the ponies too. Also, lol at Scootaloo's "NO!" at the end. :P
Assuming Apple Bloom is silll a "Blank Flank", I hope she gets her Cutie Mark soon.
Cutie Mark Chronicles was awesome, it reminds me of a TMNT episode. Nice to see some backstory to the ponies too. Also, lol at Scootaloo's "NO!" at the end. :P
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
Better late than never I suppose. 
SonicMario
Star Spirit
Yeah I kinda wish they'd do something like one or two of them get their Cutie Mark while either the rest get theirs later on.
But I imagine they'll get their Cutie Marks either never or in some special that's near the end of the show's run. We never know though. They could surprise us by having at least one get their Cutie Mark in Season 3.
Though I think Scootaloo really needs an episode for herself. Apple Bloom and Sweetie each have their own episodes or were the driving force of some episodes.
But I imagine they'll get their Cutie Marks either never or in some special that's near the end of the show's run. We never know though. They could surprise us by having at least one get their Cutie Mark in Season 3.
Though I think Scootaloo really needs an episode for herself. Apple Bloom and Sweetie each have their own episodes or were the driving force of some episodes.
Snowstalker
Snowstalker
Alright, let's dig into this, starting with the season openings of each (just part 1; I have different opinions of Part 2)
The series pilot, Mare in the Moon, isn't generally considered one of the greatest but is impossible to hate. It's their first try, and it does a fine job of introducing the 6 (7 if you count Spike) main characters. The storybook opening, which takes up the first minute or so, is sort of dopey but makes sense due to it being "ancient history", and the real show picks up smoothly. The character introductions (via Twilight visiting the ponies for their preparations) are well-done, even in hindsight, and that is the main purpose of the first part of the pilot. Return of Harmony I marks the beginning of a slightly tweaked style, with Faust only partially involved. The animation has gotten cleaner and more detailed over time, and they've of course brought in a new villain voiced by a relatively important actor.
I am of the opinion that heroes are defined by their villains, and Nightmare Moon and Discord are near-opposites. NMM is about as traditional as you can get; dark, shadowy, and rather dull other than her appearance. Other than being dark and scary, there's nothing particularly special about her until the end of Part 2 (which we'll get to next time). Discord, on the other hand, is relatively unconventional (even if he is basically Q as a chimera); a nonthreatening, almost silly appearance, and someone who seems more interested in creating chocolate milk clouds made of cotton candy than causing any real harm. Though this humor stays with him throughout the episode, the maze shows that he's anything but nice, emotionally tearing apart everyone but Twilight and turning them into their moral opposites. In fact, I had so much fun with Discord that I was nearly rooting for him by the end of Part 1.
On the other hand, Mare in the Moon's importance to the series cannot be denied, and did a great job of crafting the new friendship of the six mares. But Return of Harmony, overall, has shown that the writers are no longer shaky with the world of Equestria, and of course has the best villain in the series so far. Point goes to Season 2.
Season 1: 0
Season 2: 1
The series pilot, Mare in the Moon, isn't generally considered one of the greatest but is impossible to hate. It's their first try, and it does a fine job of introducing the 6 (7 if you count Spike) main characters. The storybook opening, which takes up the first minute or so, is sort of dopey but makes sense due to it being "ancient history", and the real show picks up smoothly. The character introductions (via Twilight visiting the ponies for their preparations) are well-done, even in hindsight, and that is the main purpose of the first part of the pilot. Return of Harmony I marks the beginning of a slightly tweaked style, with Faust only partially involved. The animation has gotten cleaner and more detailed over time, and they've of course brought in a new villain voiced by a relatively important actor.
I am of the opinion that heroes are defined by their villains, and Nightmare Moon and Discord are near-opposites. NMM is about as traditional as you can get; dark, shadowy, and rather dull other than her appearance. Other than being dark and scary, there's nothing particularly special about her until the end of Part 2 (which we'll get to next time). Discord, on the other hand, is relatively unconventional (even if he is basically Q as a chimera); a nonthreatening, almost silly appearance, and someone who seems more interested in creating chocolate milk clouds made of cotton candy than causing any real harm. Though this humor stays with him throughout the episode, the maze shows that he's anything but nice, emotionally tearing apart everyone but Twilight and turning them into their moral opposites. In fact, I had so much fun with Discord that I was nearly rooting for him by the end of Part 1.
On the other hand, Mare in the Moon's importance to the series cannot be denied, and did a great job of crafting the new friendship of the six mares. But Return of Harmony, overall, has shown that the writers are no longer shaky with the world of Equestria, and of course has the best villain in the series so far. Point goes to Season 2.
Season 1: 0
Season 2: 1
SonicMario
Star Spirit
That reminds me that I keep forgetting to place mine here. It turns out putting all the ones I did was too much for one post (Exceeds the character limit). I'll post the rest on the next post and just have these 4 here.
Ok on to the Winter-themed episodes!
Which obviously is the main similarity between these episodes. Albeit that's the only thing. Whole lots of Snow in both. Both aired around the month of Christmas, but Hearth's Warming Eve is definitely the more Christmas-y special episode. What with all the Christmas Trees and decorations. And there are plays that theme around the history of Christmas in real life. However this isn't a "Which is better as a Christmas special" this is which is the better episode of Friendship is Magic.
I was actually a little concerned about Winter Wrap-Up here. But rewatching it, it is actually really good. I sort of went in that if you ignore the song, the episode might be lackluster. Which I worried might of made a huge disadvantage. But luckily seeing it again, the episode is still great. I'll be honest, while I do like Winter Wrap-Up it's not really my favorite song. And I'm not wild about it as some are. I think best Night Ever in Season 1 was much better. And This Day Aria in the Season 2 finale blew both away. It's still a good tune though. But other then that, I feel so much sympathy for Twilight. I myself if I ever got excited for an event would have trouble fitting in. I probably couldn't make a nest much better then Twilight did and she has Hooves for crying out loud, I can skate but not very fast or else I lose control much like Twilight did, and I'm not really an Outdoors type in meeting Animals. Much less Snakes, Bats, and then... Bees. One thing I forgot about this episode is how much of a jerk Spike is in the episode. Most of the episode he acts like an annoying little Brother and makes fun of Twilight's failures. I find the "Outhouse" joke still funny, but when he decides to be a hypcrite when Twilight takes his advice to use magic. Just... urgh. The scene where Applejacks scolds her is just so heartbreaking. Also one thing, it's probably not that big of a deal. But Twilight actually uses the word "kills" in the episode. Which is considering this is My Little Pony and the show still had EI in the corner. Some Anime dubs weren't even allowed to use the word kill (Like the pre-funimation dub of Dragonball "send you to the next dimension"). But anyway, at least it results in a good ending when Twi finds out that even before she came into Ponyville they've had recent troubles with Winter Wrap-Up. And Spike kinda gets his just desserts by getting sick at the end. So yeah, this was actually a better episode then I realized even if you decided to discount the song.
No with Hearth's Warming Eve. It was really neat to get some backstory on Equestria, and know that there times where Ponies weren't exactly happy. Heck the whole crowd gasps at the thought of there being hatred at one point between Ponies. By the way, I hope there weren't too many people annoyed with the attitude of Pinkie, Rainbow, and Rarity throughout the whole episode. As they were supposed to be jerks because that was their acting role. While there still is that "Urgh" feeling you get when Rainbow Dash says before the play "Well it should be the Rainbow Dash show!". Probably didn't help that it wasn't too long after the whole Mare-Do-Well fiasco. If people at all lost respect for Pinkie, Rainbow, or Rarity from this episode at all, that someone didn't get the point of it being a play. The Windigoes made for a rather mysterious antagonist (Even if it was an antagonist that wasn't really there). And while as a play and as an episode only 22 minutes, I'm sure some of the stuff is exaggerated or made less of a big part of a story from the real thing. Which could be up to Fanfic authors (Heck why don't they make a story where Commander Hurricane and Princess Platinum were in a love/hate relationship hehe) but what they could fit in was pretty nice. Pinkie as Puddinghead was pretty hilarious, and the Windigoes get freaking Magic burned. And the huge heart plus the carol at the end was pretty neat. Though if you want to compare the song with Winter Wrap-Up it doesn't stand a chance. Which speaking of which...
I'm giving this one to Winter Wrap-Up. I liked seeing all the Equestria backstory and am a big fan of history in general. But even if they're being acted by the Main 6, these are characters we don't really care about as much. It feels much more important to see Twilight try to fit in with her being new to Ponyville and all. I find myself invested and sympathizing with Twilight throughout much of it. And she interacts well with each of the others of the Main 6. Even if you omitted the song, I feel Winter Wrap-Up had more scenes that emotionally invest you in. Whether making you laugh, making you feel sympathy for Twilight, making you notice Spike's jerkishness, etc. Hearth Warming's Eve was just essentially a History lesson for a fictional universe. Which isn't a bad thing, but that's not we're watching Friendship is Magic for. Point goes to Season 1
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 6
Which obviously is the main similarity between these episodes. Albeit that's the only thing. Whole lots of Snow in both. Both aired around the month of Christmas, but Hearth's Warming Eve is definitely the more Christmas-y special episode. What with all the Christmas Trees and decorations. And there are plays that theme around the history of Christmas in real life. However this isn't a "Which is better as a Christmas special" this is which is the better episode of Friendship is Magic.
I was actually a little concerned about Winter Wrap-Up here. But rewatching it, it is actually really good. I sort of went in that if you ignore the song, the episode might be lackluster. Which I worried might of made a huge disadvantage. But luckily seeing it again, the episode is still great. I'll be honest, while I do like Winter Wrap-Up it's not really my favorite song. And I'm not wild about it as some are. I think best Night Ever in Season 1 was much better. And This Day Aria in the Season 2 finale blew both away. It's still a good tune though. But other then that, I feel so much sympathy for Twilight. I myself if I ever got excited for an event would have trouble fitting in. I probably couldn't make a nest much better then Twilight did and she has Hooves for crying out loud, I can skate but not very fast or else I lose control much like Twilight did, and I'm not really an Outdoors type in meeting Animals. Much less Snakes, Bats, and then... Bees. One thing I forgot about this episode is how much of a jerk Spike is in the episode. Most of the episode he acts like an annoying little Brother and makes fun of Twilight's failures. I find the "Outhouse" joke still funny, but when he decides to be a hypcrite when Twilight takes his advice to use magic. Just... urgh. The scene where Applejacks scolds her is just so heartbreaking. Also one thing, it's probably not that big of a deal. But Twilight actually uses the word "kills" in the episode. Which is considering this is My Little Pony and the show still had EI in the corner. Some Anime dubs weren't even allowed to use the word kill (Like the pre-funimation dub of Dragonball "send you to the next dimension"). But anyway, at least it results in a good ending when Twi finds out that even before she came into Ponyville they've had recent troubles with Winter Wrap-Up. And Spike kinda gets his just desserts by getting sick at the end. So yeah, this was actually a better episode then I realized even if you decided to discount the song.
No with Hearth's Warming Eve. It was really neat to get some backstory on Equestria, and know that there times where Ponies weren't exactly happy. Heck the whole crowd gasps at the thought of there being hatred at one point between Ponies. By the way, I hope there weren't too many people annoyed with the attitude of Pinkie, Rainbow, and Rarity throughout the whole episode. As they were supposed to be jerks because that was their acting role. While there still is that "Urgh" feeling you get when Rainbow Dash says before the play "Well it should be the Rainbow Dash show!". Probably didn't help that it wasn't too long after the whole Mare-Do-Well fiasco. If people at all lost respect for Pinkie, Rainbow, or Rarity from this episode at all, that someone didn't get the point of it being a play. The Windigoes made for a rather mysterious antagonist (Even if it was an antagonist that wasn't really there). And while as a play and as an episode only 22 minutes, I'm sure some of the stuff is exaggerated or made less of a big part of a story from the real thing. Which could be up to Fanfic authors (Heck why don't they make a story where Commander Hurricane and Princess Platinum were in a love/hate relationship hehe) but what they could fit in was pretty nice. Pinkie as Puddinghead was pretty hilarious, and the Windigoes get freaking Magic burned. And the huge heart plus the carol at the end was pretty neat. Though if you want to compare the song with Winter Wrap-Up it doesn't stand a chance. Which speaking of which...
I'm giving this one to Winter Wrap-Up. I liked seeing all the Equestria backstory and am a big fan of history in general. But even if they're being acted by the Main 6, these are characters we don't really care about as much. It feels much more important to see Twilight try to fit in with her being new to Ponyville and all. I find myself invested and sympathizing with Twilight throughout much of it. And she interacts well with each of the others of the Main 6. Even if you omitted the song, I feel Winter Wrap-Up had more scenes that emotionally invest you in. Whether making you laugh, making you feel sympathy for Twilight, making you notice Spike's jerkishness, etc. Hearth Warming's Eve was just essentially a History lesson for a fictional universe. Which isn't a bad thing, but that's not we're watching Friendship is Magic for. Point goes to Season 1
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 6
Ok today, I watched Call of the Cutie and Family Appreciation Day.
The similarities are obvious. These are both Apple Bloom episodes. And they feature the CMC and Diamond Tiara in some way. Though that's just about it. As the episodes have different amount of characters appearing and what they're about.
Call of the Cutie is of course our first taste of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. I just want to say that I have never disliked the Cutie Mark Crusaders at any point of getting into the show. There are some moments from some of them that have made me feel like facepalming. But otherwise, the CMC are just playing to who they are: Little kids. Though Call of the Cutie was more about Apple Bloom then Sweetie or Scootaloo as we don't see those until the ending. The most important thing though is we learn about how Cutie Marks work in Friendship is Magic. They're symbols of a Pony's special talent and also somewhat related to personality as well. It's also a sort of G-rated puberty as all grown-up Ponies have a Cutie Mark and some get their's earlier and later then others. But thinking of it as puberty brings up some dirty thoughts. Because (if they were human) it'd be like Diamond gloating how she has boobs and Apple Bloom doesn't. The mythos for the Cutie Mark is important because alot of Fanfics has been spawned based on how minor characters got their Cutie Marks and a common thread in FiM communities is "If you were a pony, what would be your Cutie Mark?". Stuff like that wouldn't happen as often were it not for this episode explaining how it works. I probably should actually get into the actual episode. But really the whole Cutie Mark thing was the most important thing. The episode itself is still good. Though of course I don't like Diamond Tiara and such. Some people seem to have developed a dislike for Twist too though most seem to just not like her voice. I thought Twist was alright though a tad disappointing that her character amounts to "Applebloom's friend that gains her Cutie Mark just to make her situation worse". I do like the scene where Apple Bloom is trying to sell apples, especially to Berry Punch "AB: We take cash or credit.... Berry Punch: D:" and Pinkie's Cupcake song is short and sweet. It did a nice job showing Scootaloo and Sweetie stand up for Apple Bloom at the Party and form the Cutie Mark Crusaders and all. But to be honest, other then the Cutie Mark explanation there wasn't anything much else towards the episode. It's an important episode still with the Cutie Marks and introducing the Cutie Mark Crusaders but I wouldn't say it's among my favorite episodes.
As for Family Appreciation Day, we get a little more into the Apple Family and Ponyville's history. I think I said before in the Hearth's Warming Eve one that I love to hear about history. And I absolutely loved Granny Smith's story. I believe this is the episode that Jayson was referring to when he said that Granny Smith would have an awesome moment. It reminded me very much of 1800s settlers in America and pretty much everything from the clothing on Granny Smith's family and what they were traveling basically was an homage to that. History's always has been a favorite subject of mine to learn about. If somebody spoke about their experiences in the past I was actually listening in Class because I find it very important and interesting to learn history. So Granny Smith heading up there to tell the class about the founding of Ponyville hit a personal chord with me. The episode itself is also pretty enjoyable I think. Diamond still bullies but at least it's not about Cutie Marks and more so embarassment of another Family Member. The Timberwolves is another of those things that make you think "People still think this is just a little girl's show?" and while it's weird that Granny Smith has to do all these strange stuff in order to suppsoedly get the Zap Apples just right. I thought the whole nature around them was kind of interesting. And I still laugh at when Sweetie tried to buck down unripe Zapapples. While compared to the gems of Season 2 it was only decent, I still find this to be a good episode. And I'm sure has improved Granny Smith's popularity with the fanbase.
I'm giving this one to Family Appreciation Day. I enjoy the Cutie Marks mythos. But I find Family Appreciation Day was the better episode and I still enjoy the story scene that makes up much of the 2nd half of the episode. While I didn't let History become the reason Hearth's Warming Eve get a point, Family Appreciation Day uses it to it's advantage. Also this roots back to when it was Sisterhooves Social Vs. Griffon the Brush-Off. I enjoy Family lessons more so then Friends or your special talent. So due to both History and more quality Lesson IMO. Season 2 gets this point.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 7
The similarities are obvious. These are both Apple Bloom episodes. And they feature the CMC and Diamond Tiara in some way. Though that's just about it. As the episodes have different amount of characters appearing and what they're about.
Call of the Cutie is of course our first taste of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. I just want to say that I have never disliked the Cutie Mark Crusaders at any point of getting into the show. There are some moments from some of them that have made me feel like facepalming. But otherwise, the CMC are just playing to who they are: Little kids. Though Call of the Cutie was more about Apple Bloom then Sweetie or Scootaloo as we don't see those until the ending. The most important thing though is we learn about how Cutie Marks work in Friendship is Magic. They're symbols of a Pony's special talent and also somewhat related to personality as well. It's also a sort of G-rated puberty as all grown-up Ponies have a Cutie Mark and some get their's earlier and later then others. But thinking of it as puberty brings up some dirty thoughts. Because (if they were human) it'd be like Diamond gloating how she has boobs and Apple Bloom doesn't. The mythos for the Cutie Mark is important because alot of Fanfics has been spawned based on how minor characters got their Cutie Marks and a common thread in FiM communities is "If you were a pony, what would be your Cutie Mark?". Stuff like that wouldn't happen as often were it not for this episode explaining how it works. I probably should actually get into the actual episode. But really the whole Cutie Mark thing was the most important thing. The episode itself is still good. Though of course I don't like Diamond Tiara and such. Some people seem to have developed a dislike for Twist too though most seem to just not like her voice. I thought Twist was alright though a tad disappointing that her character amounts to "Applebloom's friend that gains her Cutie Mark just to make her situation worse". I do like the scene where Apple Bloom is trying to sell apples, especially to Berry Punch "AB: We take cash or credit.... Berry Punch: D:" and Pinkie's Cupcake song is short and sweet. It did a nice job showing Scootaloo and Sweetie stand up for Apple Bloom at the Party and form the Cutie Mark Crusaders and all. But to be honest, other then the Cutie Mark explanation there wasn't anything much else towards the episode. It's an important episode still with the Cutie Marks and introducing the Cutie Mark Crusaders but I wouldn't say it's among my favorite episodes.
As for Family Appreciation Day, we get a little more into the Apple Family and Ponyville's history. I think I said before in the Hearth's Warming Eve one that I love to hear about history. And I absolutely loved Granny Smith's story. I believe this is the episode that Jayson was referring to when he said that Granny Smith would have an awesome moment. It reminded me very much of 1800s settlers in America and pretty much everything from the clothing on Granny Smith's family and what they were traveling basically was an homage to that. History's always has been a favorite subject of mine to learn about. If somebody spoke about their experiences in the past I was actually listening in Class because I find it very important and interesting to learn history. So Granny Smith heading up there to tell the class about the founding of Ponyville hit a personal chord with me. The episode itself is also pretty enjoyable I think. Diamond still bullies but at least it's not about Cutie Marks and more so embarassment of another Family Member. The Timberwolves is another of those things that make you think "People still think this is just a little girl's show?" and while it's weird that Granny Smith has to do all these strange stuff in order to suppsoedly get the Zap Apples just right. I thought the whole nature around them was kind of interesting. And I still laugh at when Sweetie tried to buck down unripe Zapapples. While compared to the gems of Season 2 it was only decent, I still find this to be a good episode. And I'm sure has improved Granny Smith's popularity with the fanbase.
I'm giving this one to Family Appreciation Day. I enjoy the Cutie Marks mythos. But I find Family Appreciation Day was the better episode and I still enjoy the story scene that makes up much of the 2nd half of the episode. While I didn't let History become the reason Hearth's Warming Eve get a point, Family Appreciation Day uses it to it's advantage. Also this roots back to when it was Sisterhooves Social Vs. Griffon the Brush-Off. I enjoy Family lessons more so then Friends or your special talent. So due to both History and more quality Lesson IMO. Season 2 gets this point.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 7
Ok this time was Fall Weather Friends Vs. Baby Cakes.
In terms of what the 2 episodes are about they don't have any similarities whatsoever. However I think there is one big similarity that's more of a meta media thing. Both are episodes that have been done in alot of cartoons. And unlike most FiM episodes they don't really bring anything too new to those kinds of episodes. Which while that doesn't mean it makes them bad episodes, it just makes them not as memorable compared to the other episodes of the show.
Fall Weather Friends is the typical episode of 2 characters with a sort of friendly rivalry. A contest at the beginning (This case horseshoes) leads to more contests (LIke the Iron Pony competition) and then it ends in one huge competition that takes up most of the episode (Like a race, a fight, etc.). When there's at least one character that's kinda cocky (Rainbow Dash in this) it eventually leads to Cheating. And while Applejack doesn't cheat in the Iron Pony competition albeit loses sorely because of it. Both try to make the other lose in more ways then one during the race. Their cheating and bickery ends up hurting their race chances more then it would if they were just racing alone and an underdog wins the race or someone they didn't expect to finish in front of them gets ahead of them (We never found out who won the race, but Twilight beats both Applejack and Rainbow to the finish line after the laughing treatment they gave her at the start). It basically writes itself. The only thing that Fall Weather Friends offers more then other episodes of it's type is basically Pinkie's Crazy Commentary but that's rather a minor thing. Now again this doesn't entirely mean this is a bad episode. It just doesn't bring anything new to the table. It does have some moments I like with Rainbow's DERP and Pinkie's Commentary. But other then that. Nothing really new.
Baby Cakes also has some similar problems. Newborn babies? Check. Inexperienced Babysitter that thinks taking care of babies is the same is just playing with them? Check. Babies have some ability or quirk that makes it more difficult for them to be taken care of? Check. So yeah. Though we at least got some genetics information from the beginning. While Pound Cake and Pumpkin Cake were probably made Pegasi and Unicorns just to make it more difficult for Pinkie to take care of them. I firmly believe that it is possible to get the other types of Unicorns if a Family has been "mixing" in some cases. It just depends on the region and family history on which is dominant. I believe the Cake family is most dominantly Earth Ponies but Mr. Cake has recessive Unicorn genes while Mrs. Cake has recessive Pegasus genes. And those genes showed up for when Pound and Pumpkin Cake were concieved. It does make for some interesting thought. And what if it's possible that at least one of the Main 6 has a recessive gene somewhere? Now on to the episode, with the Cakes trying to get ANYBODY of the Main 6 besides Pinkie (What was going through their minds when they asked Rainbow Dash to babysit?). Though I must say I did like the Babies, they were pretty cute. I at least care for them more then most Babies that are used in plots like this. And their reaction to Pinkie's Pig song was hilarious (Also who knew the element of Laughter wouldn't be so good at Stand-Up comedy ). Also why it might be a little weird that the babies know how to fly or use magic really well I kinda account that it's something that's just shaping as newborns and sometime soon they won't be able to do stuff like that. Because I don't think even Twilight can lift herself with Magic and fly. It's also nice to see Pinkie Pie actually having to solve the problem herself even if she had to shut the door on Twilight assisting her. Also I'm no horror fan but apparently there was a clever reference to Trainspotting with the Baby crawling on the ceiling. (I don't know about anybody else, but I found Pumpkin Cake chewing on the rubber chicken making that squeak during the scene was absolutely cute). Still even with stuff like this it doesn't provide too much that's new to Babysitting episodes.
Both are episodes that are decent repeats of commonly used Cartoon plots. But I'm giving this to Baby Cakes since I believe it edges out Fall Weather Friends for a few things. Namely the whole Genetics thing getting explained and I might as well add the Cute factor. Nothing against Fall Weather Friends. Seeing a competition between Applejack and Rainbow is nice as I am sort of a Sports fan. But even if Baby Cakes doesn't provide anything too new. Pinkie being the Straight Pony for once, the Babies themselves, and the heartwarming ending. I'm giving this one to Season 2
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 8
In terms of what the 2 episodes are about they don't have any similarities whatsoever. However I think there is one big similarity that's more of a meta media thing. Both are episodes that have been done in alot of cartoons. And unlike most FiM episodes they don't really bring anything too new to those kinds of episodes. Which while that doesn't mean it makes them bad episodes, it just makes them not as memorable compared to the other episodes of the show.
Fall Weather Friends is the typical episode of 2 characters with a sort of friendly rivalry. A contest at the beginning (This case horseshoes) leads to more contests (LIke the Iron Pony competition) and then it ends in one huge competition that takes up most of the episode (Like a race, a fight, etc.). When there's at least one character that's kinda cocky (Rainbow Dash in this) it eventually leads to Cheating. And while Applejack doesn't cheat in the Iron Pony competition albeit loses sorely because of it. Both try to make the other lose in more ways then one during the race. Their cheating and bickery ends up hurting their race chances more then it would if they were just racing alone and an underdog wins the race or someone they didn't expect to finish in front of them gets ahead of them (We never found out who won the race, but Twilight beats both Applejack and Rainbow to the finish line after the laughing treatment they gave her at the start). It basically writes itself. The only thing that Fall Weather Friends offers more then other episodes of it's type is basically Pinkie's Crazy Commentary but that's rather a minor thing. Now again this doesn't entirely mean this is a bad episode. It just doesn't bring anything new to the table. It does have some moments I like with Rainbow's DERP and Pinkie's Commentary. But other then that. Nothing really new.
Baby Cakes also has some similar problems. Newborn babies? Check. Inexperienced Babysitter that thinks taking care of babies is the same is just playing with them? Check. Babies have some ability or quirk that makes it more difficult for them to be taken care of? Check. So yeah. Though we at least got some genetics information from the beginning. While Pound Cake and Pumpkin Cake were probably made Pegasi and Unicorns just to make it more difficult for Pinkie to take care of them. I firmly believe that it is possible to get the other types of Unicorns if a Family has been "mixing" in some cases. It just depends on the region and family history on which is dominant. I believe the Cake family is most dominantly Earth Ponies but Mr. Cake has recessive Unicorn genes while Mrs. Cake has recessive Pegasus genes. And those genes showed up for when Pound and Pumpkin Cake were concieved. It does make for some interesting thought. And what if it's possible that at least one of the Main 6 has a recessive gene somewhere? Now on to the episode, with the Cakes trying to get ANYBODY of the Main 6 besides Pinkie (What was going through their minds when they asked Rainbow Dash to babysit?). Though I must say I did like the Babies, they were pretty cute. I at least care for them more then most Babies that are used in plots like this. And their reaction to Pinkie's Pig song was hilarious (Also who knew the element of Laughter wouldn't be so good at Stand-Up comedy ). Also why it might be a little weird that the babies know how to fly or use magic really well I kinda account that it's something that's just shaping as newborns and sometime soon they won't be able to do stuff like that. Because I don't think even Twilight can lift herself with Magic and fly. It's also nice to see Pinkie Pie actually having to solve the problem herself even if she had to shut the door on Twilight assisting her. Also I'm no horror fan but apparently there was a clever reference to Trainspotting with the Baby crawling on the ceiling. (I don't know about anybody else, but I found Pumpkin Cake chewing on the rubber chicken making that squeak during the scene was absolutely cute). Still even with stuff like this it doesn't provide too much that's new to Babysitting episodes.
Both are episodes that are decent repeats of commonly used Cartoon plots. But I'm giving this to Baby Cakes since I believe it edges out Fall Weather Friends for a few things. Namely the whole Genetics thing getting explained and I might as well add the Cute factor. Nothing against Fall Weather Friends. Seeing a competition between Applejack and Rainbow is nice as I am sort of a Sports fan. But even if Baby Cakes doesn't provide anything too new. Pinkie being the Straight Pony for once, the Babies themselves, and the heartwarming ending. I'm giving this one to Season 2
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 8
Ok now here's a tough one I'm sure for many people around here. It's Suited for Success against The Last Roundup.
For once I'm going to use the first paragraph not for the similarities here. Because honestly there's very little except perhaps pressure put on one pony but with Suited for Success pressure ended up being bad and in Last ROundup AJ's friends were just trying to get her to tell why she didn't go back to Ponyville. Because I'm pretty sure that for some Bronies, the whole Derpygate might of ruined the Last Roundup for them. I'm going to just say that this isn't going to be a factor in the decision I make. Other then this paragraph it's going to be like it never happened. Because honestly something that caused a ruckus in the fandom should not affect how you like an episode. I also am not going to give the point simply because of the Derpy scene in the opposite postive way because ultimately it was only about a 20 second scene in what was of course a 22 minute episode. I want to make that perfectly clear that Derpygate isn't going to affect anything in my views.
Suited for Success is I believe in terms of plot the most girliest episode of the entire show. It's one of those episodes that are good but for the most part it should be the last episode considered to show people who might be turned off with an episode about Dressmaking. But it's still a pretty good episode once you have gotten used to it after seeing enough episodes. As no other episode except maybe Green Isn't Your Color goes toward being an episode that isn't really appliable to Boys at all as it is to Girls. This episode is of course fairly important in showing off the dresses that the Main 6 would later wear again in the Season Finale of Season 1. Which is pretty neat. The song Art of the Dress is not bad though it's not something I'd listen to outside of rewatches of the episode. By far the best scene in the episode is when Rarity puts herself in seclusion after the failure that was the first fashion show. That was just a solid scene between all of the Main 6. With "I VANT TO BE ALONE" and Pinkie's Cat Lady suggestion. The 2nd fashion show at the end is still a pretty neat thing itself with all the backgrounds that appear for each of the Ponies. The background music during that scene is top notch too. It's just a pretty good episode, though I would think it takes an acquired taste by becoming a fan of the show to really enjoy it.
Now as for The Last Roundup. I thought this was a great episode. From beginning to end I thought things went pretty naturally. The scene with Apple Bloom praising Applejack was cute and the end with Applejack speaking with Twilight, Rainbow, and Fluttershy was heartwarming. The Derpy scene at the beginning came as a huge surprise and was awesome to see though again ultimately it was only 20 seconds of a 22 minute episode. And the pressure that Ponyville was putting on Applejack making her say a speech and the Mayor even blatantly telling her before she leaves on the train "Bring back all that money!" perfectly setup her attitude when the Main 6 tried to get her to come back. It made perfect sense to me for Applejack not to want to fail the whole town, her friends, and her family without having the money first. Pinkie Pie was utterly hilarious in this episode, the bathroom break, the I Love Lucy reference with the Cherries, being used as the "Big Gun", Pinkie Promise anger, and "Rarity, Catch Me" and the following ending scene with her and Rarity on one of those lever wagons. The chase scene was pretty epic to see. Those poor Stallions that Applejack was using though. Almost got them killed attempting to go over the train haha. But as I said the ending just well... rounded-up The Last Round-Up with a really neat heartwarming moment. To see them comfort Applejack when they found out she didn't win any Blue Ribbons and thus no money. And how a hole in a roof isn't as important as a hole in their hearts without her. To even see Rainbow Dash of all Ponies tearing up just makes the moment all the more special.
I like Suited for Success. But putting everything into consideration I'm giving this one to The Last Roundup. Again the Derpy scene does not change positively or negatively my decision. If the Derpy scene hadn't been there at all but everything else did. I still would of given The Last Roundup the point simply because I find more entertainment value out of Last Roundup then Suited for Success. Suited for Success was neat for introducing the Gala dresses and the 2nd half of the episode was for sure a great moment. But IMO it can't compare to all the moments that happened in The Last Round-Up. It just has more entertaining moments in 22 minutes then Suited for Success had. So Season 2 gets this point.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 9
For once I'm going to use the first paragraph not for the similarities here. Because honestly there's very little except perhaps pressure put on one pony but with Suited for Success pressure ended up being bad and in Last ROundup AJ's friends were just trying to get her to tell why she didn't go back to Ponyville. Because I'm pretty sure that for some Bronies, the whole Derpygate might of ruined the Last Roundup for them. I'm going to just say that this isn't going to be a factor in the decision I make. Other then this paragraph it's going to be like it never happened. Because honestly something that caused a ruckus in the fandom should not affect how you like an episode. I also am not going to give the point simply because of the Derpy scene in the opposite postive way because ultimately it was only about a 20 second scene in what was of course a 22 minute episode. I want to make that perfectly clear that Derpygate isn't going to affect anything in my views.
Suited for Success is I believe in terms of plot the most girliest episode of the entire show. It's one of those episodes that are good but for the most part it should be the last episode considered to show people who might be turned off with an episode about Dressmaking. But it's still a pretty good episode once you have gotten used to it after seeing enough episodes. As no other episode except maybe Green Isn't Your Color goes toward being an episode that isn't really appliable to Boys at all as it is to Girls. This episode is of course fairly important in showing off the dresses that the Main 6 would later wear again in the Season Finale of Season 1. Which is pretty neat. The song Art of the Dress is not bad though it's not something I'd listen to outside of rewatches of the episode. By far the best scene in the episode is when Rarity puts herself in seclusion after the failure that was the first fashion show. That was just a solid scene between all of the Main 6. With "I VANT TO BE ALONE" and Pinkie's Cat Lady suggestion. The 2nd fashion show at the end is still a pretty neat thing itself with all the backgrounds that appear for each of the Ponies. The background music during that scene is top notch too. It's just a pretty good episode, though I would think it takes an acquired taste by becoming a fan of the show to really enjoy it.
Now as for The Last Roundup. I thought this was a great episode. From beginning to end I thought things went pretty naturally. The scene with Apple Bloom praising Applejack was cute and the end with Applejack speaking with Twilight, Rainbow, and Fluttershy was heartwarming. The Derpy scene at the beginning came as a huge surprise and was awesome to see though again ultimately it was only 20 seconds of a 22 minute episode. And the pressure that Ponyville was putting on Applejack making her say a speech and the Mayor even blatantly telling her before she leaves on the train "Bring back all that money!" perfectly setup her attitude when the Main 6 tried to get her to come back. It made perfect sense to me for Applejack not to want to fail the whole town, her friends, and her family without having the money first. Pinkie Pie was utterly hilarious in this episode, the bathroom break, the I Love Lucy reference with the Cherries, being used as the "Big Gun", Pinkie Promise anger, and "Rarity, Catch Me" and the following ending scene with her and Rarity on one of those lever wagons. The chase scene was pretty epic to see. Those poor Stallions that Applejack was using though. Almost got them killed attempting to go over the train haha. But as I said the ending just well... rounded-up The Last Round-Up with a really neat heartwarming moment. To see them comfort Applejack when they found out she didn't win any Blue Ribbons and thus no money. And how a hole in a roof isn't as important as a hole in their hearts without her. To even see Rainbow Dash of all Ponies tearing up just makes the moment all the more special.
I like Suited for Success. But putting everything into consideration I'm giving this one to The Last Roundup. Again the Derpy scene does not change positively or negatively my decision. If the Derpy scene hadn't been there at all but everything else did. I still would of given The Last Roundup the point simply because I find more entertainment value out of Last Roundup then Suited for Success. Suited for Success was neat for introducing the Gala dresses and the 2nd half of the episode was for sure a great moment. But IMO it can't compare to all the moments that happened in The Last Round-Up. It just has more entertaining moments in 22 minutes then Suited for Success had. So Season 2 gets this point.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 9
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
I just saw "Return of Harmony Part 1". Awesome. Loved the "To Be Continued" cliffhanger.
SonicMario
Star Spirit
Posting some more. (Now I'm kinda thinking I'm going a little too much into them. I still need to put one more on another post because it exceeds the character limit lol But I just need to post one more and from now on I'll post them here when I make them like I was doing before I kinda stopped after Episode 10 in here.)
OK now we get into Feeling Pinkie Keen Vs. Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000.
Now I know what you're thinking. "Pinkie Keen is a Dave Polsky episode while the other is a Larsen episode and the Pinkie Keen is among some of the controversies that are occasionally still argued in the fandom today. Of course Season 2 is going to get this point". I just want to say that not necessarily that it's too obvious who I chose. Just like with Mysterious Mare Do-Well Vs. Look Before you Sleep and in some ways also was a part of the Decision with The Last Round-Up against Suited for Success. I'm not letting fandom controversies affect my decision too mush as it is my opinion of watching both episodes back-to-back and deciding which one was the better episode in my humble opinion. Anyway, on episode similarites not really all that much. Though during the ending of both episodes they both give a callback to an earlier episode. Feeling Pinkie Keen callsback to Dragonshy while Speedy Cider callsback all the way to Applebuck Season in a subtle manner.
As I get into Feeling Pinkie Keen I just want to say that I'm not an athiest but at the same time I'm not a huge religious person. I never go to church but it's not that I don't believe in god. I'm probably closer to agnostic, in which I choose to don't know if there is a god in way that's not denying or accepting. As such I find it silly that this episode caused some debates. As obviously Twilight is not trying to prove to Pinkie that god doesn't exist (Which would be silly because Twilight's very mentor is basically a god-queen). As it's more of Twilight doubting psychic powers. This isn't about Religion Vs. Atheism, it's whether you're skeptical or not when a "Ghost hunter" show or a documentary about people that claim they can speak to the dead or predict the future is on. On to the actual episode, I know that for some of you it's not the controversy that gets to you. It's the slapstick. While some of the slapstick like some of the unnecessary punishment Twilight gets (Those are some really aggresive bees if they're simply going after a Purple Pony that wasn't even bothering them that just didn't bother to hide good enough) for just trying to prove Pinkie wrong about the Pinkie Sense (Which I understand for some people it felt like it was full of bullshit, but I have nothing entirely against it. It kinda disappears to make it all the more worse but it's still there. As seen in Mare-Do-Well and It's About Time) I enjoy the occasional slapstick in a cartoon. It reminds me of the ol' Looney Tunes shorts. They even included the classic Anvil AND a Piano that both land on Twilight... while she was already injured from something earlier in a wheelchair. Which even if I said Twilight gets some undeserved punishment, I do find that particular scene funny. Probably more so as we're shown the mailcarriers (With Derpy!) and all. I will admit that Twilight does act like a self-righteous jerk in front of Pinkie, especially in the scenes before the Hydra attacks which she does probably at least deserve some kinda lesson. Just that the Bees, the Door slams, and the fall into Applejack's cellar weren't really entirely deserved. Some of the little things I enjoy from Feeling Pinkie Keen are the "Exploding Twice" joke, the reference to Dragonshy when Fluttershy said "A hop, skip and jump", Twilight's "squee", and her Rapidash anger. It's a good episode if you can look past most of the flaws. And while YMMV on whether they really said it correctly. The moral does have it's value.
Now for Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000. I liked seeing how Ponyville seems to have a thing for Cider seasons. And if this episode is to be believed. A very important thing to supply for the Apple family. I actually just realized there there is a kind of similarity between the 2 episodes. In that there's a bit of a buttmonkey. Twilight in Feeling Pinkie Keen and Rainbow Dash in this episode sicne she never even gets barely a drop of Cider until the end of the episode. WHich speaking of which the opening scene with her and Fluttershy was hilarious. Though Pinkie Pie wasn't really helping when after the Apple family run out for one day's cider she basically brags about the cider she just drank right in front of Rainbow (Especially since from what we know, she was the only Pony to grab like six cups for herself. Had she given up one of her cups. Rainbow might of gotten at least something. Flim and Flam I'll say made neat antagonists. Though they might have at least been able to stay or just been a constant thorn in the side if they didn't get too greedy and aimed to run the Apple family out of buisness. I don't see why Flim and Flam said when they'd get the 75% of the profits unless it takes alot of money to get the fuel for their machine. I'm just saying if they were just a little less greedy and didn't try to push the Apple family out they might have actually made a nice living in Ponyville. On the song that the brothers sing, it's good and overall the first song from antagonistic characters until a real villain song (This Day Aria) arrived even though of course if you just saw the song and nothing else in the episode there isn't much pointing them to be of a shady buisness. So to call it a antagonist song is probably a bit of a stretch. Anyway of course the song finishes and we're shown the Brothers intentions of running the Sweet Apple acres out of buisness in order to take control of it's supply of apples. On the next day, the Apple family again run out of Cider (Much to the chagrin of Rainbow Dash way back in the line. Which was hilarious) the brothers come to give all the thirsty ponies some Cider. One thing that worried me about this episode was that when the obvious competition was going to start, that it was going to be Applejack that heads into the bet that could potentially turn her whole world upside down. Instead it's Apple Bloom and Granny Smith that officially set it off. Apple Bloom's the young pony that doesn't quite understand what this could mean, Granny Smith's the ol' Traditionalist that will stand for the old ways more so then some newfangled machine. Especially when one of the brothers calls her chicken. While in the middle of this Applejack's stuck in the middle with this "Oh shit we're screwed" expression. Applejack doesn't try to talk the family out of it and still decides to go into the competition but it at least averted what I was afraid that Applejack's stubborness was going to be the reason that the Apple Family gets into the competition with the Brothers. When the actual competition happens. Of course the Brothers have the advantage with the machine. But things get much more interesting when Twilight gets herself and the others of the Main 6 to assist. The Brothers get cocky and allow Twilight and her friends to help thinking their machine will still do better then extra man... er... horsepower. But the best thing about this is when Applejack accepts her friends help even saying "I think I'd love to have the rest of my family helpin' out." That line alone shows how Applejack has changed since the days of Applebuck Season and makes for huge bonuses in continuty. Of course the brothers still win after they decide to cancel quality control but practically lose anyway when the Crowd tries out their now crap cider. And while jokes about Applejack didn't learn anything. The point was that she applied lessons she already knew. At least one of which from a much older episode. Sometimes in life you really don't learn anything new, but it's worth it if you used past knowledge from a time where you did need to learn something to help you out on another day. Applejack may have not learned anything, but we know she learns from her mistakes and now used this knowledge to save her farm. And that's really special indeed.
Basically yeah. Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 is the one getting the point. Not because Feeling Pinkie Keen had all this controversy. Not because the episode had way too much slapstick going. And not because the moral wasn't given clearly enough. Feelign Pinkie Keen doesn't have anything close to that scene of Applejack telling Celestia that she's using old lessons to solve current problems. I still like Feeling Pinkie Keen for some of it's little moments. And it's not entirely a bad episode. If Feeling Pinkie Keen had been up against Mare-Do-Well, I probably would of given Feeling Pinkie Keen the point there. Not that's really saying much but regardless. From the Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy scene at the beginning to the heartwarming ending. Speedy Cider wins this one. And Season 2 earns yet another point.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 10
Now I know what you're thinking. "Pinkie Keen is a Dave Polsky episode while the other is a Larsen episode and the Pinkie Keen is among some of the controversies that are occasionally still argued in the fandom today. Of course Season 2 is going to get this point". I just want to say that not necessarily that it's too obvious who I chose. Just like with Mysterious Mare Do-Well Vs. Look Before you Sleep and in some ways also was a part of the Decision with The Last Round-Up against Suited for Success. I'm not letting fandom controversies affect my decision too mush as it is my opinion of watching both episodes back-to-back and deciding which one was the better episode in my humble opinion. Anyway, on episode similarites not really all that much. Though during the ending of both episodes they both give a callback to an earlier episode. Feeling Pinkie Keen callsback to Dragonshy while Speedy Cider callsback all the way to Applebuck Season in a subtle manner.
As I get into Feeling Pinkie Keen I just want to say that I'm not an athiest but at the same time I'm not a huge religious person. I never go to church but it's not that I don't believe in god. I'm probably closer to agnostic, in which I choose to don't know if there is a god in way that's not denying or accepting. As such I find it silly that this episode caused some debates. As obviously Twilight is not trying to prove to Pinkie that god doesn't exist (Which would be silly because Twilight's very mentor is basically a god-queen). As it's more of Twilight doubting psychic powers. This isn't about Religion Vs. Atheism, it's whether you're skeptical or not when a "Ghost hunter" show or a documentary about people that claim they can speak to the dead or predict the future is on. On to the actual episode, I know that for some of you it's not the controversy that gets to you. It's the slapstick. While some of the slapstick like some of the unnecessary punishment Twilight gets (Those are some really aggresive bees if they're simply going after a Purple Pony that wasn't even bothering them that just didn't bother to hide good enough) for just trying to prove Pinkie wrong about the Pinkie Sense (Which I understand for some people it felt like it was full of bullshit, but I have nothing entirely against it. It kinda disappears to make it all the more worse but it's still there. As seen in Mare-Do-Well and It's About Time) I enjoy the occasional slapstick in a cartoon. It reminds me of the ol' Looney Tunes shorts. They even included the classic Anvil AND a Piano that both land on Twilight... while she was already injured from something earlier in a wheelchair. Which even if I said Twilight gets some undeserved punishment, I do find that particular scene funny. Probably more so as we're shown the mailcarriers (With Derpy!) and all. I will admit that Twilight does act like a self-righteous jerk in front of Pinkie, especially in the scenes before the Hydra attacks which she does probably at least deserve some kinda lesson. Just that the Bees, the Door slams, and the fall into Applejack's cellar weren't really entirely deserved. Some of the little things I enjoy from Feeling Pinkie Keen are the "Exploding Twice" joke, the reference to Dragonshy when Fluttershy said "A hop, skip and jump", Twilight's "squee", and her Rapidash anger. It's a good episode if you can look past most of the flaws. And while YMMV on whether they really said it correctly. The moral does have it's value.
Now for Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000. I liked seeing how Ponyville seems to have a thing for Cider seasons. And if this episode is to be believed. A very important thing to supply for the Apple family. I actually just realized there there is a kind of similarity between the 2 episodes. In that there's a bit of a buttmonkey. Twilight in Feeling Pinkie Keen and Rainbow Dash in this episode sicne she never even gets barely a drop of Cider until the end of the episode. WHich speaking of which the opening scene with her and Fluttershy was hilarious. Though Pinkie Pie wasn't really helping when after the Apple family run out for one day's cider she basically brags about the cider she just drank right in front of Rainbow (Especially since from what we know, she was the only Pony to grab like six cups for herself. Had she given up one of her cups. Rainbow might of gotten at least something. Flim and Flam I'll say made neat antagonists. Though they might have at least been able to stay or just been a constant thorn in the side if they didn't get too greedy and aimed to run the Apple family out of buisness. I don't see why Flim and Flam said when they'd get the 75% of the profits unless it takes alot of money to get the fuel for their machine. I'm just saying if they were just a little less greedy and didn't try to push the Apple family out they might have actually made a nice living in Ponyville. On the song that the brothers sing, it's good and overall the first song from antagonistic characters until a real villain song (This Day Aria) arrived even though of course if you just saw the song and nothing else in the episode there isn't much pointing them to be of a shady buisness. So to call it a antagonist song is probably a bit of a stretch. Anyway of course the song finishes and we're shown the Brothers intentions of running the Sweet Apple acres out of buisness in order to take control of it's supply of apples. On the next day, the Apple family again run out of Cider (Much to the chagrin of Rainbow Dash way back in the line. Which was hilarious) the brothers come to give all the thirsty ponies some Cider. One thing that worried me about this episode was that when the obvious competition was going to start, that it was going to be Applejack that heads into the bet that could potentially turn her whole world upside down. Instead it's Apple Bloom and Granny Smith that officially set it off. Apple Bloom's the young pony that doesn't quite understand what this could mean, Granny Smith's the ol' Traditionalist that will stand for the old ways more so then some newfangled machine. Especially when one of the brothers calls her chicken. While in the middle of this Applejack's stuck in the middle with this "Oh shit we're screwed" expression. Applejack doesn't try to talk the family out of it and still decides to go into the competition but it at least averted what I was afraid that Applejack's stubborness was going to be the reason that the Apple Family gets into the competition with the Brothers. When the actual competition happens. Of course the Brothers have the advantage with the machine. But things get much more interesting when Twilight gets herself and the others of the Main 6 to assist. The Brothers get cocky and allow Twilight and her friends to help thinking their machine will still do better then extra man... er... horsepower. But the best thing about this is when Applejack accepts her friends help even saying "I think I'd love to have the rest of my family helpin' out." That line alone shows how Applejack has changed since the days of Applebuck Season and makes for huge bonuses in continuty. Of course the brothers still win after they decide to cancel quality control but practically lose anyway when the Crowd tries out their now crap cider. And while jokes about Applejack didn't learn anything. The point was that she applied lessons she already knew. At least one of which from a much older episode. Sometimes in life you really don't learn anything new, but it's worth it if you used past knowledge from a time where you did need to learn something to help you out on another day. Applejack may have not learned anything, but we know she learns from her mistakes and now used this knowledge to save her farm. And that's really special indeed.
Basically yeah. Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000 is the one getting the point. Not because Feeling Pinkie Keen had all this controversy. Not because the episode had way too much slapstick going. And not because the moral wasn't given clearly enough. Feelign Pinkie Keen doesn't have anything close to that scene of Applejack telling Celestia that she's using old lessons to solve current problems. I still like Feeling Pinkie Keen for some of it's little moments. And it's not entirely a bad episode. If Feeling Pinkie Keen had been up against Mare-Do-Well, I probably would of given Feeling Pinkie Keen the point there. Not that's really saying much but regardless. From the Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy scene at the beginning to the heartwarming ending. Speedy Cider wins this one. And Season 2 earns yet another point.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 10
Now this is a real tricky one. We have Sonic Rainboom against Read it and Weep.
This is of course one where we have an obvious similarity. Both of the episodes are Rainbow Dash episodes. And I'd also say that these are the best Rainbow Dash episodes of each season. (Even if of course Sonic Rainboom may have been Rainbow's ONLY sole episode in Season 1). But besides that there isn't much else. As one episode is about her getting nervous before a competition starts in Cloudsdale, and the other of her recuperating in the Hospital while learning the joys of reading. At the very least both of the episodes Rainbow gets worried about her reputation. If she utterly failed at the competition she worried she'd become the laughing stock of not only the bullies who laugh at her constantly but all of cloudsdale. And in the other episode she worries about coming out as an Egghead simply because now she likes books. These IMO are both pretty great episodes. So my personal tastes might be the one that ultimately decides it.
Sonic Rainboom is one of the instant classics of Season 1. Everybody remembers and enjoys Fluttershy's "Yay" and of course the Sonic Rainboom scene at the end. While it's pretty hard to believe given how popular she is. Rainbow Dash actually had some of the lowest screentime in Season 1. So it was about time she finally got her first episode that was for the most part centered around her. Rather then share it with Pinkie (Griffon the Brush-Off) or Applejack (Fall Weather Friends). And this was a pretty amazing episode showing Rainbow's psyche. If Twilight hadn't had the cloudwalking and flight spell, Rainbow Dash probably would of let her nerves get the best of her and she would of failed the competition. Fluttershy tried her best but it wouldn't have been enough if you get right down to it. This episode also showed both the best... and the worst... of Rarity. She convinces Twilight to somehow get them all up to Cloudsdale. Which ultimately helps Rainbow for the better. But when they get to Cloudsdale, Rarity's wings impress all the local Pegasi and she can't help but stroke her ego. Somuch so when a few Pegasi suggest that she enters the competition. She agrees, making Rainbow all the more nervous. It makes it hard for you decide what to think of Rarity in this particular episode. On one hand she gets Rainbow's friends there in the first place, on the other she made things worse by letting her ego and vanity go to her head and make things worse for her friend, but on another note her part in the competition ends up endangering her life and it gives Rainbow Dash the extra push in order to perform the Sonic Rainboom to save both her and the Wonderbolts that had tried to save Rarity themselves. At the very least though Rarity apologizes at the end. Cloudsdale is an awesome place in the episode. We didn't really see much of it other Discord showing it being collapsed or in Hurricane Fluttershy. But maybe there will be an episode where we see it again in Season 3 sometime. Maybe at the same time a little more history on Rainbow and Fluttershy. The "yay" scene is among the cutest of the entire series, and Fluttershy actually being the loudest of Rainbow's friends cheering is special in itself. The Pegasi bullies themselves however I find it hard to like, only coming around after Rainbow has successfully done her trick. The Sonic Rainboom and the Victory scene afterwards is one of the best episode endings in the series. There's nothing much else to say at this point.
As for Read It and Weep. It's quite an interesting episode. I don't know how many Season 2 episodes are considered classics quite yet. And I'm not entirely sure if Read It and Weep is considered one of them. But I gotta say that I do enjoy this one alot. Some of it for personal reasons. In contrast with Season 1, Rainbow Dash has had 2 episodes prior at this point in Season 2. One was pretty good while the other couldn't have really helped much. Being the first Rainbow episode since Mare-Do-Well there were some worries about how this episode would be like, as unfair as it might be. Anyway of course we know Rainbow Dash gets a minor sprain in her wing that will make her uncapable of Flying for a few days. Worried she'd get bored to death while just laying there in bed, she whines to her friends about it. Then comes Twilight with the one item that drives this episode along: A Daring Do book. Which Rainbow Dash is initially against (I don't know about you, but if Twilight was on the side of my hospital bed with that face she gives Rainbow she'd convince me to read ANY book). Before Twilight leaves she gives some choice words before heading out Rainbow Dash's room. Rainbow Dash then starts thinking of stuff to do that she easily gets bored of but apparently were better options at the time then actually trying out the book. Like hitting a ball, telling jokes to other patients, etc. Eventually she relents and starts reading in which she finds an instant connection with Daring when she reads that her Wings are injured. She reads on as the protagonist in the story meets danger from predators, cliffs, etc. and finds a temple that she was searching for. At this point Rainbow Dash admits to herself that he's loving the story and even says to herself "I love reading!" but then also says "I'm an egghead...". This kinda reminds me about how some Bronies were reluctant about the show before. If you replace the Daring Do book with a show or even an episode of Friendship is Magic and Egghead with Brony. Rainbow's situation can be held dear to those who felt reluctant before trying out the show. Thinking that the show is not for them because of their stubbornness. Then comes where Rainbow Dash, when visited by her friends that she likes the book. Sound familiar with any of you closet Bronies or former ones? Twilight suspects something is up when Rainbow is practically letting Fluttershy and her win Rainbow's favorite board game without even taking a turn and not even feeling the slightest sadness of losing. (Which if you remember Fall Weather Friends, she hates losing). And eats messy in order to get Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie out afterwhich. I also gotta say that I love the whole Daring Do thing. I'm a big fan of the Indiana Jones series, and to see an obvious reference to it in Friendship is Magic was ultimately awesome. Even if before the episode I thought it would mean we'd get multiple book or movie parodies instead of just one. But still it's fine. Everything from the forests, the character, the temple, and of course the placement of the treasure was a huge homage to Indy. Sometime near the end just when stuff was getting good for Rainbow, the Doctor tells her that it's time to leave. And unfortunately they take her out without the book. Which leads her to try to get back in so she can get the book. Faking an injury doesn't work, so she then tries sneaking in at night. Which shows Ponyville hospitals have some tight security it seems as they chase Rainbow into town for stealing what they think were slippers. Eventually Rainbow is led to a stop at the Treebrary where she finally tells all that she likes the book and reading. Reading to a neat scene between Rainbow and Twilight (Those 2 haven't interacted that much before this point) where Rainbow is told the lesson of "Don't knock it until you try it" a lesson that I believe a lot of Bronies hold to dearly for the very show we're watching. And finally Rainbow gets to finish her book and get on with more in the series just chilling at home. (I'd mention a "Reading Rainbow" joke or something about Barking Mad, but I figure that's been said about enough already)
This is a really tough one and I think personally for everyone it's going to come down to which one they enjoyed more personally. As I think both of these are great episodes. And my personal preference, I'm going with Read It and Weep. Sonic Rainboom is one of those instant classics of Season 1 that's for sure up there. But on a personal level, I enjoy Read It and Weep for the Indiana Jones references, getting a little deeper into Dash and Twi's friendship a little bit, and the connections that Bronies can feel for this episode as Rainbow Dash feels insecure about being an Egghead for Reading. As some of might of been of being Fans/Bronies of this very show. Sonic Rainboom was great for all the moments it brought. But I think personally "Don't Knock it until you Try it" is something that's very dear to fans fo this show and ever since getting into it I feel something that everyone on the internet should really understand some times. I feel like this is probably one of those if alot of people still do their own scores and stuff that most are going to pick Sonic Rainboom and that's ok as that's a great one too. But on a personal level I'm giving the edge to Read It and Weep and yet another one for Season 2.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 11
This is of course one where we have an obvious similarity. Both of the episodes are Rainbow Dash episodes. And I'd also say that these are the best Rainbow Dash episodes of each season. (Even if of course Sonic Rainboom may have been Rainbow's ONLY sole episode in Season 1). But besides that there isn't much else. As one episode is about her getting nervous before a competition starts in Cloudsdale, and the other of her recuperating in the Hospital while learning the joys of reading. At the very least both of the episodes Rainbow gets worried about her reputation. If she utterly failed at the competition she worried she'd become the laughing stock of not only the bullies who laugh at her constantly but all of cloudsdale. And in the other episode she worries about coming out as an Egghead simply because now she likes books. These IMO are both pretty great episodes. So my personal tastes might be the one that ultimately decides it.
Sonic Rainboom is one of the instant classics of Season 1. Everybody remembers and enjoys Fluttershy's "Yay" and of course the Sonic Rainboom scene at the end. While it's pretty hard to believe given how popular she is. Rainbow Dash actually had some of the lowest screentime in Season 1. So it was about time she finally got her first episode that was for the most part centered around her. Rather then share it with Pinkie (Griffon the Brush-Off) or Applejack (Fall Weather Friends). And this was a pretty amazing episode showing Rainbow's psyche. If Twilight hadn't had the cloudwalking and flight spell, Rainbow Dash probably would of let her nerves get the best of her and she would of failed the competition. Fluttershy tried her best but it wouldn't have been enough if you get right down to it. This episode also showed both the best... and the worst... of Rarity. She convinces Twilight to somehow get them all up to Cloudsdale. Which ultimately helps Rainbow for the better. But when they get to Cloudsdale, Rarity's wings impress all the local Pegasi and she can't help but stroke her ego. Somuch so when a few Pegasi suggest that she enters the competition. She agrees, making Rainbow all the more nervous. It makes it hard for you decide what to think of Rarity in this particular episode. On one hand she gets Rainbow's friends there in the first place, on the other she made things worse by letting her ego and vanity go to her head and make things worse for her friend, but on another note her part in the competition ends up endangering her life and it gives Rainbow Dash the extra push in order to perform the Sonic Rainboom to save both her and the Wonderbolts that had tried to save Rarity themselves. At the very least though Rarity apologizes at the end. Cloudsdale is an awesome place in the episode. We didn't really see much of it other Discord showing it being collapsed or in Hurricane Fluttershy. But maybe there will be an episode where we see it again in Season 3 sometime. Maybe at the same time a little more history on Rainbow and Fluttershy. The "yay" scene is among the cutest of the entire series, and Fluttershy actually being the loudest of Rainbow's friends cheering is special in itself. The Pegasi bullies themselves however I find it hard to like, only coming around after Rainbow has successfully done her trick. The Sonic Rainboom and the Victory scene afterwards is one of the best episode endings in the series. There's nothing much else to say at this point.
As for Read It and Weep. It's quite an interesting episode. I don't know how many Season 2 episodes are considered classics quite yet. And I'm not entirely sure if Read It and Weep is considered one of them. But I gotta say that I do enjoy this one alot. Some of it for personal reasons. In contrast with Season 1, Rainbow Dash has had 2 episodes prior at this point in Season 2. One was pretty good while the other couldn't have really helped much. Being the first Rainbow episode since Mare-Do-Well there were some worries about how this episode would be like, as unfair as it might be. Anyway of course we know Rainbow Dash gets a minor sprain in her wing that will make her uncapable of Flying for a few days. Worried she'd get bored to death while just laying there in bed, she whines to her friends about it. Then comes Twilight with the one item that drives this episode along: A Daring Do book. Which Rainbow Dash is initially against (I don't know about you, but if Twilight was on the side of my hospital bed with that face she gives Rainbow she'd convince me to read ANY book). Before Twilight leaves she gives some choice words before heading out Rainbow Dash's room. Rainbow Dash then starts thinking of stuff to do that she easily gets bored of but apparently were better options at the time then actually trying out the book. Like hitting a ball, telling jokes to other patients, etc. Eventually she relents and starts reading in which she finds an instant connection with Daring when she reads that her Wings are injured. She reads on as the protagonist in the story meets danger from predators, cliffs, etc. and finds a temple that she was searching for. At this point Rainbow Dash admits to herself that he's loving the story and even says to herself "I love reading!" but then also says "I'm an egghead...". This kinda reminds me about how some Bronies were reluctant about the show before. If you replace the Daring Do book with a show or even an episode of Friendship is Magic and Egghead with Brony. Rainbow's situation can be held dear to those who felt reluctant before trying out the show. Thinking that the show is not for them because of their stubbornness. Then comes where Rainbow Dash, when visited by her friends that she likes the book. Sound familiar with any of you closet Bronies or former ones? Twilight suspects something is up when Rainbow is practically letting Fluttershy and her win Rainbow's favorite board game without even taking a turn and not even feeling the slightest sadness of losing. (Which if you remember Fall Weather Friends, she hates losing). And eats messy in order to get Rarity, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie out afterwhich. I also gotta say that I love the whole Daring Do thing. I'm a big fan of the Indiana Jones series, and to see an obvious reference to it in Friendship is Magic was ultimately awesome. Even if before the episode I thought it would mean we'd get multiple book or movie parodies instead of just one. But still it's fine. Everything from the forests, the character, the temple, and of course the placement of the treasure was a huge homage to Indy. Sometime near the end just when stuff was getting good for Rainbow, the Doctor tells her that it's time to leave. And unfortunately they take her out without the book. Which leads her to try to get back in so she can get the book. Faking an injury doesn't work, so she then tries sneaking in at night. Which shows Ponyville hospitals have some tight security it seems as they chase Rainbow into town for stealing what they think were slippers. Eventually Rainbow is led to a stop at the Treebrary where she finally tells all that she likes the book and reading. Reading to a neat scene between Rainbow and Twilight (Those 2 haven't interacted that much before this point) where Rainbow is told the lesson of "Don't knock it until you try it" a lesson that I believe a lot of Bronies hold to dearly for the very show we're watching. And finally Rainbow gets to finish her book and get on with more in the series just chilling at home. (I'd mention a "Reading Rainbow" joke or something about Barking Mad, but I figure that's been said about enough already)
This is a really tough one and I think personally for everyone it's going to come down to which one they enjoyed more personally. As I think both of these are great episodes. And my personal preference, I'm going with Read It and Weep. Sonic Rainboom is one of those instant classics of Season 1 that's for sure up there. But on a personal level, I enjoy Read It and Weep for the Indiana Jones references, getting a little deeper into Dash and Twi's friendship a little bit, and the connections that Bronies can feel for this episode as Rainbow Dash feels insecure about being an Egghead for Reading. As some of might of been of being Fans/Bronies of this very show. Sonic Rainboom was great for all the moments it brought. But I think personally "Don't Knock it until you Try it" is something that's very dear to fans fo this show and ever since getting into it I feel something that everyone on the internet should really understand some times. I feel like this is probably one of those if alot of people still do their own scores and stuff that most are going to pick Sonic Rainboom and that's ok as that's a great one too. But on a personal level I'm giving the edge to Read It and Weep and yet another one for Season 2.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 11
Gumball Machine
Celestial Guide
Finished watching "Return of Harmony". Applejack's trip down memory lane reminds me of another TMNT episode and that was a nice crowning moment of heartwarming. Rarity finally realizing her giant diamond was a boulder was hilarious and Applejack pointing it out afterwards after Rarity asked them to never bring it up again was a crowning moment of funny. Finally, turning Discord back into stone was a crowning moment of awesome. Does he ever come back?
SonicMario
Star Spirit
Jeff said:
Not in Season 2 at least. But rumors say that Disocrd will come back in some capacity in Season 3. Even if it's like for only a flashback episode or something. Because his voice actor (John DeLancie) confirmed he has voice Discord once again for the show. We just don't know the circumstances yet.
Anyway...
Ok Cutie Mark Crusader Episodic Comparisons go! (Stare Master Vs. Hearts and Hooves Day anyway)
Few obvious comparisons between these 2 episodes. Both have a focus on the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Both also have Sweetie Belle play the largest role. As it's Sweetie's fault that the sleepover has to be at Fluttershy's because she cut into Rarity's gold silk and they can't sleepover while Rarity's busy making more. And in Hearts and Hooves Day notonly does Sweetie get to sing the song but she's basically the (in-universe) big shipper trying to bring Big Mac and Cheerilee together. Both also get rather minor appearences from Twilight that affect the episode in some way. WHile Twilight appeared in amount of screentime more in Stare Master. I thought her short scene in Hearts and Hooves day was much better for a particular reason. I'll get to that a little later down this post though.
Ok Stare Master is the first CMC episode since Call of the Cutie. The first time we actually see Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo do something. Stare Master isn't really one of those well appreciated episodes. Most Bronies seem to remember it for being the origin of the "Scootaloo is a Chicken" joke (Which YMMV if that was a good thing or not), and introducing the power of Fluttershy's Stare (Which is more or less accepted more often). It is one of the weaker episodes of Season 1 but it's still a pretty decent episode. There's also quite some important stuff we get into in this episode. What with learning that Sweetie is Rarity's little sister and showing off the CMC's schtick of trying to get their Cutie Marks even if (And this is putting it lightly) it's obvious they're doing it wrong. Which while I understand that gets annoying, I feel like at the same time it doesn't deserve the criticism it sometimes gets. They're only kids, they'll learn eventually. And at least in Season 2, for the exception of Cutie Pox it seems to have stopped at least for a little while. Now of course Fluttershy gets her hands full with the kids and biting more then she can chew when volunteering to babysit them at the Cottage. Fluttershy doesn't realize that taking care of little kids are different from taking care of less sentient animals. In a way this episode is like Baby Cakes in that regard only of course the Kids are older and instead of Pinkie thinking Babysitting is like Playtime. Fluttershy thinks it can't be too far from what her special talent is. Which is what leads out the episode. Fluttershy doesn't treat the CMC like as if they were her animal pets, but Fluttershy's more used to taking care of Animals that obey her. The CMC are much more sentient and have their own plans, and Fluttershy is much too timid to tell them "No" for more then a second. After a few desperate tries to calm them down, Fluttershy tells them to go to sleep and even sings a small little lullaby. But then Sweetie makes a whole loud gospel version of the Lullaby that Fluttershy sings. Which shows Sweetie has quite a bit of Pipes though it entirely misses the point of the song being a lullaby. The singing disturbs the chicken nest and Fluttershy has to disclipline them back in using the stare. When Fluttershy thinks the CMC are asleep, the 3 girls sneak off into the forest when they find that one Chicken still hasn't returned. Going into the Everfree forest. Fluttershy wakes up and finds this out and starts really worrying especially when she realizes a Cockatrice is on the loose after finding Twilight's stoned body (She appeared earlier in the episode to drop by Zecora's. Though we don't know if she made it to Zecora's or not before being turned to Stone). The CMC also discover the Cockatrice the hard way by witnessing it turn a chicken (Not Scootaloo, silly) into Stone. And run away screaming. Fluttershy finds them and of course protect them from the Cockatrice while staring down it into submission stopping herself from being turned to stone and saving Twilight and the one chicken in the process. Having saved their lives, the CMC are grateful to Fluttershy while Twilight comes out dazed. Which of course leads to ending of the episode with the moral. With newfound respect, Fluttershy is able to order the CMC to stop which Rarity is unable to do. All adds up to a rather decent episode I'd say.
Now as for Hearts and Hooves Day. This was an episode that was accidentally leaked early onto iTunes and by extension on Youtube as well. And while I did feel a little guilty of not waiting, I'm glad I saw it then and there. Because I did really like this episode. It's nice to see how much the CMC cares for their teacher. Some of my best friends in school were funnily enough the teachers. I rarely ever had a strict one. And I have fond memories of some History, Science, and even Math teachers. Though enough about me. The heart they make at the beginning for Cheerilee is really sweet. Though then Cheerilee reveals a fact that fuels the episode is that she's single. Her initial face when the CMC ask why she doesn't have one currently kinda tells something. Albeit I imagine it will never go into detail in the show, but I'm sure the fanbase would love explaining with a fanfic or 2. Although Cheerilee assures the CMC she'll have a good day anyway, Sweetie Belle comes up with the idea to find someone for her anyway. WHich then of course leads to the Perfect Stallion song. Which was a pretty great song. It's much better and serves more of a purpose then Sweetie's version of Hush Now, Quiet Now. The different stallions we see during the song were quite neat and even got a little funny with the Hugh Jelly pony. And while the CMC don't have too many songs so there isn't much competition but Perfect Stallion is the best song to come from them as of yet. Of course at the end of the song, the CMC find Big Mac. A pony that's more focused on his duties on the farm then to really get a date on Hearts and Hooves Day. Apple Bloom's a bit understandably like "Wait a sec..." when they're going to ship her brother but she goes on with it. They then lure the "should-be" couple to the gazebo trying to see if leaving them alone with eachother will result in one of them asking out eachother. I love Cheerilee's reaction when she finds out the tree that the kids wanted her to identify was something that obviously they would know (An Apple tree). Leaving them alone however doesn't work though not before the kids get hopeful when Cheerilee is leaning in on Big Mac's face only to tell them something is stuck in his teeth. Which prompts Sweetie Belle to yell "OH COME ON!" in the background (Easily one of the funniest moments of the episode, and I'd argue of all of the series as well). Back at the drawing board, the CMC run into Twilight who's reading a book about Hearts and Hooves Day and mentions a love potion. This instantly catches the kids' attention and they ask Twilight if they can borrow the book. Now some have complained that Twilight shouldn't have even dared give that book in the first place given the CMC's history of causing trouble especially since it contains a recipie for a potion that caused some bad times to fall on a land (Although it says Chaos reigning, I don't think it necessarily has to mean that it's related to Discord). However I like to think, however right or wrong it might be. That I say that Read It and Weep wasn't too long before this episode both chronologically in the episode order and the timeline of the episode. I like to think she gave the book to the CMC simply for the sake because they wanted to read. When the CMC ask her for the book what with the success she just recently had with Rainbow Dash: She thinks the CMC just wants to read for reading's sake. I think the fact Twilight tried to give them another book is even more evidence to this. Which I think is more effective then her role in Stare Master even if she got more screentime then. Of course the CMC once again get Cheerilee and Big Mac to come back to the Gazebo this time with the "punch". Cheerilee knows what they're up to but doesn't realize that the punch is the love potion and thus the 2 drink it and to the initial moments the CMC celebrate. But then things get weird as the 2 start giving eachother all these pet names that start to make the girls gag. When Big Mac is suddenly speaking in complete sentences you know something's wrong! They go back to read more about the potion (Which I can't believe I didn't realize this at first but the female pony in the book was an Alicorn. Heh. I guess we might of got signs that all princesses are Alicorns even before we got to Cadence) and they read the story on how the potion or rather poison led to a kingdom falling. Which while Cheerilee and Big Mac aren't royalty, they being not there to teach kids and help with the Apples leads Apple Bloom to believe Ponyville would become a less smarter and starving place (Which BTW I love when she wiggles her hooves in front of Scootaloo). They then set out on using marriage planning in order to prevent the couple from looking eye-to-eye for an entire hour which is how the spell will wear off. Leadign to shenanigans where the CMC delay the "couple" with any means necessary including annoying Diamond store owners and locking Cheerilee in the dressing room in Carousel Boutique. However Big Mac approaches the Boutique and Sweetie and Scoots have to resort to trapping him into a hole. In which even then they have to work at preventing them from looking eye-to-eye as Cheerilee to come crashing through. It works and the 2 are wondering how they got there. The CMC tell the truth and apologize as they learn the lesson of while they were thinking the best for them they shouldn't meddle in anyone's relationships. Their punishment is chores at Sweet Apple Acres. But not before Big Mac and Cheerilee punish them mentally by giving them a pet name one last time before heading out into the sunset together. Basically effectively a last-second ship tease. Which was great. The episode jsut did great being a day in the limelight from some secondary characters. And it really improved my thoughts on Cheerilee which while I liked before, didn't have much going for her. Great episode. Perhaps the best CMC episode of Season 2.
With that I'm giving this one to Hearts and Hooves Day. Stare Master was good at all what with Fluttershy and the stare. But I far enjoy Hearts and Hooves Day for all the great little moments. With "OH COME ON!", alot of the expressions and Face animation, The Perfect Stallion song, and more. At this point I'm starting to feel a little bad for Season 1. Because at this point. Season 2 is only 2 wins away from taking the automatic majority. Just 2 more and even if Season 1 won every single episode after which. Season 2 would still win by one. Which considering what episodes are coming up. I don't see that happening. I think Season 1 will still get a few more at least. But right now Season 2 is just smoking, with a 6-winning streak that likely isn't going to be matched anytime soon from me.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 12
Few obvious comparisons between these 2 episodes. Both have a focus on the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Both also have Sweetie Belle play the largest role. As it's Sweetie's fault that the sleepover has to be at Fluttershy's because she cut into Rarity's gold silk and they can't sleepover while Rarity's busy making more. And in Hearts and Hooves Day notonly does Sweetie get to sing the song but she's basically the (in-universe) big shipper trying to bring Big Mac and Cheerilee together. Both also get rather minor appearences from Twilight that affect the episode in some way. WHile Twilight appeared in amount of screentime more in Stare Master. I thought her short scene in Hearts and Hooves day was much better for a particular reason. I'll get to that a little later down this post though.
Ok Stare Master is the first CMC episode since Call of the Cutie. The first time we actually see Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo do something. Stare Master isn't really one of those well appreciated episodes. Most Bronies seem to remember it for being the origin of the "Scootaloo is a Chicken" joke (Which YMMV if that was a good thing or not), and introducing the power of Fluttershy's Stare (Which is more or less accepted more often). It is one of the weaker episodes of Season 1 but it's still a pretty decent episode. There's also quite some important stuff we get into in this episode. What with learning that Sweetie is Rarity's little sister and showing off the CMC's schtick of trying to get their Cutie Marks even if (And this is putting it lightly) it's obvious they're doing it wrong. Which while I understand that gets annoying, I feel like at the same time it doesn't deserve the criticism it sometimes gets. They're only kids, they'll learn eventually. And at least in Season 2, for the exception of Cutie Pox it seems to have stopped at least for a little while. Now of course Fluttershy gets her hands full with the kids and biting more then she can chew when volunteering to babysit them at the Cottage. Fluttershy doesn't realize that taking care of little kids are different from taking care of less sentient animals. In a way this episode is like Baby Cakes in that regard only of course the Kids are older and instead of Pinkie thinking Babysitting is like Playtime. Fluttershy thinks it can't be too far from what her special talent is. Which is what leads out the episode. Fluttershy doesn't treat the CMC like as if they were her animal pets, but Fluttershy's more used to taking care of Animals that obey her. The CMC are much more sentient and have their own plans, and Fluttershy is much too timid to tell them "No" for more then a second. After a few desperate tries to calm them down, Fluttershy tells them to go to sleep and even sings a small little lullaby. But then Sweetie makes a whole loud gospel version of the Lullaby that Fluttershy sings. Which shows Sweetie has quite a bit of Pipes though it entirely misses the point of the song being a lullaby. The singing disturbs the chicken nest and Fluttershy has to disclipline them back in using the stare. When Fluttershy thinks the CMC are asleep, the 3 girls sneak off into the forest when they find that one Chicken still hasn't returned. Going into the Everfree forest. Fluttershy wakes up and finds this out and starts really worrying especially when she realizes a Cockatrice is on the loose after finding Twilight's stoned body (She appeared earlier in the episode to drop by Zecora's. Though we don't know if she made it to Zecora's or not before being turned to Stone). The CMC also discover the Cockatrice the hard way by witnessing it turn a chicken (Not Scootaloo, silly) into Stone. And run away screaming. Fluttershy finds them and of course protect them from the Cockatrice while staring down it into submission stopping herself from being turned to stone and saving Twilight and the one chicken in the process. Having saved their lives, the CMC are grateful to Fluttershy while Twilight comes out dazed. Which of course leads to ending of the episode with the moral. With newfound respect, Fluttershy is able to order the CMC to stop which Rarity is unable to do. All adds up to a rather decent episode I'd say.
Now as for Hearts and Hooves Day. This was an episode that was accidentally leaked early onto iTunes and by extension on Youtube as well. And while I did feel a little guilty of not waiting, I'm glad I saw it then and there. Because I did really like this episode. It's nice to see how much the CMC cares for their teacher. Some of my best friends in school were funnily enough the teachers. I rarely ever had a strict one. And I have fond memories of some History, Science, and even Math teachers. Though enough about me. The heart they make at the beginning for Cheerilee is really sweet. Though then Cheerilee reveals a fact that fuels the episode is that she's single. Her initial face when the CMC ask why she doesn't have one currently kinda tells something. Albeit I imagine it will never go into detail in the show, but I'm sure the fanbase would love explaining with a fanfic or 2. Although Cheerilee assures the CMC she'll have a good day anyway, Sweetie Belle comes up with the idea to find someone for her anyway. WHich then of course leads to the Perfect Stallion song. Which was a pretty great song. It's much better and serves more of a purpose then Sweetie's version of Hush Now, Quiet Now. The different stallions we see during the song were quite neat and even got a little funny with the Hugh Jelly pony. And while the CMC don't have too many songs so there isn't much competition but Perfect Stallion is the best song to come from them as of yet. Of course at the end of the song, the CMC find Big Mac. A pony that's more focused on his duties on the farm then to really get a date on Hearts and Hooves Day. Apple Bloom's a bit understandably like "Wait a sec..." when they're going to ship her brother but she goes on with it. They then lure the "should-be" couple to the gazebo trying to see if leaving them alone with eachother will result in one of them asking out eachother. I love Cheerilee's reaction when she finds out the tree that the kids wanted her to identify was something that obviously they would know (An Apple tree). Leaving them alone however doesn't work though not before the kids get hopeful when Cheerilee is leaning in on Big Mac's face only to tell them something is stuck in his teeth. Which prompts Sweetie Belle to yell "OH COME ON!" in the background (Easily one of the funniest moments of the episode, and I'd argue of all of the series as well). Back at the drawing board, the CMC run into Twilight who's reading a book about Hearts and Hooves Day and mentions a love potion. This instantly catches the kids' attention and they ask Twilight if they can borrow the book. Now some have complained that Twilight shouldn't have even dared give that book in the first place given the CMC's history of causing trouble especially since it contains a recipie for a potion that caused some bad times to fall on a land (Although it says Chaos reigning, I don't think it necessarily has to mean that it's related to Discord). However I like to think, however right or wrong it might be. That I say that Read It and Weep wasn't too long before this episode both chronologically in the episode order and the timeline of the episode. I like to think she gave the book to the CMC simply for the sake because they wanted to read. When the CMC ask her for the book what with the success she just recently had with Rainbow Dash: She thinks the CMC just wants to read for reading's sake. I think the fact Twilight tried to give them another book is even more evidence to this. Which I think is more effective then her role in Stare Master even if she got more screentime then. Of course the CMC once again get Cheerilee and Big Mac to come back to the Gazebo this time with the "punch". Cheerilee knows what they're up to but doesn't realize that the punch is the love potion and thus the 2 drink it and to the initial moments the CMC celebrate. But then things get weird as the 2 start giving eachother all these pet names that start to make the girls gag. When Big Mac is suddenly speaking in complete sentences you know something's wrong! They go back to read more about the potion (Which I can't believe I didn't realize this at first but the female pony in the book was an Alicorn. Heh. I guess we might of got signs that all princesses are Alicorns even before we got to Cadence) and they read the story on how the potion or rather poison led to a kingdom falling. Which while Cheerilee and Big Mac aren't royalty, they being not there to teach kids and help with the Apples leads Apple Bloom to believe Ponyville would become a less smarter and starving place (Which BTW I love when she wiggles her hooves in front of Scootaloo). They then set out on using marriage planning in order to prevent the couple from looking eye-to-eye for an entire hour which is how the spell will wear off. Leadign to shenanigans where the CMC delay the "couple" with any means necessary including annoying Diamond store owners and locking Cheerilee in the dressing room in Carousel Boutique. However Big Mac approaches the Boutique and Sweetie and Scoots have to resort to trapping him into a hole. In which even then they have to work at preventing them from looking eye-to-eye as Cheerilee to come crashing through. It works and the 2 are wondering how they got there. The CMC tell the truth and apologize as they learn the lesson of while they were thinking the best for them they shouldn't meddle in anyone's relationships. Their punishment is chores at Sweet Apple Acres. But not before Big Mac and Cheerilee punish them mentally by giving them a pet name one last time before heading out into the sunset together. Basically effectively a last-second ship tease. Which was great. The episode jsut did great being a day in the limelight from some secondary characters. And it really improved my thoughts on Cheerilee which while I liked before, didn't have much going for her. Great episode. Perhaps the best CMC episode of Season 2.
With that I'm giving this one to Hearts and Hooves Day. Stare Master was good at all what with Fluttershy and the stare. But I far enjoy Hearts and Hooves Day for all the great little moments. With "OH COME ON!", alot of the expressions and Face animation, The Perfect Stallion song, and more. At this point I'm starting to feel a little bad for Season 1. Because at this point. Season 2 is only 2 wins away from taking the automatic majority. Just 2 more and even if Season 1 won every single episode after which. Season 2 would still win by one. Which considering what episodes are coming up. I don't see that happening. I think Season 1 will still get a few more at least. But right now Season 2 is just smoking, with a 6-winning streak that likely isn't going to be matched anytime soon from me.
Season 1: 5
Season 2: 12
SonicMario
Star Spirit
So with Season 2 over and all. What are your guys favorite episodes of Season 2? I've narrowed it down to 10 (With 2-parters counting as one) Though I do like all the episodes in some way. This is in no ranking. They're only ordered by which they aired
Return of Harmony, Lesson Zero, Sisterhooves Social, Sweet and Elite, Secret of my Excess, The Last Roundup, Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000, Read It and Weep, Hurricane Fluttershy, and Canterlot Wedding
Return of Harmony, Lesson Zero, Sisterhooves Social, Sweet and Elite, Secret of my Excess, The Last Roundup, Super Speedy Cider Squeezy 6000, Read It and Weep, Hurricane Fluttershy, and Canterlot Wedding