Rock Candy Reviews

And why they matter

My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, is a show that caught the attention of so many people. Despite the targeting of the fandom, the show has touched the hearts of casual fans and all out Bronies alike. This is because so many of the episodes put a lot of thought into the lessons the characters learn. These messages became even more thoughtful as the writers found out that adults were enjoying the show as well.

Some of my favorite episodes teach the characters about themselves and the people around them. All while expanding the world of Equestria, and the magic it has developed over the many moons. Here are a few of what I think are particularly great episodes.

The Best Night Ever

As far as season finales go, many will consider this episode to be one of the more forgetful ones. However, this was one of the most surprising ways to end a season, especially so early on.

This is because, the show tackles something that a lot of kids shows try to avoid. That something being disappointment and when things go wrong.

As our main characters try their best to get all they wanted out of the yearly Grand Galloping Gala, we see their expectations for the party get the better of them. After a whole season of looking forward to the event, nothing goes as planned, no matter how hard the ponies try to make things go their way.

At the end, they all regroup to share their feelings about how the night went, and are able to find comfort and even some humor in the experience. This shows how friends can make a not-so-good situation feel a little bit easier to deal with. Seeing the friends support each other was very wholesome, and cemented their relationships going forward.

Hurricane Fluttershy

When MLP focuses their episodes on one specific character, it always runs the risk of being too repetitive or niche. Even in the first few seasons, some fans felt this way about our animal caretaker, Fluttershy. They felt that she was a fun character, but always had to relearn the same lesson every time she was the star of an episode.

Usually, the plot would focus on Fluttershy being too timid and scare to say or do something, until she is forced to deal with the problem head on in order to protect her friends.

Which is why this episode highlights something other than her shyness. When the pegasi have to create a giant hurricane to transport a lake of water, Fluttershy has to work through her fear of flying in front of large crowds. Not only this, but she also learns the value of her contribution despite her flying speed being less than all the other helpers.

This episode does a great job of showing a character overcoming hardship, and realizing their efforts truly mean something. Not just for themself, but for the people around them, too.

May the Best Pet Win!

Each of the mane six has an animal companion, but Rainbow Dash was the last to get one. As she holds a competition to see which pet suits her personality the best, she is able to expand her perception of loyalty and bravery, while still staying true to her likes and dislikes.

After a dynamic song, and some pet shenanigans, a tortoise steals the show despite Rainbow’s initial distain for him. He manages to save Rainbow when she gets hurt during the last part of the competition. Even though it costs him win in the end.

Because of this, Rainbow Dash decides to make Tank the tortoise her pet, and learns to be more openminded towards others.

This episode gave the athletic pony a chance to choose for herself instead of having a lesson forced on to her like usual. It was also very refreshing to Rainbow, and her competitive spirit be challenged. All while putting forth the message that safety and respect are more important in the end.

To be continued?

Considering that this show has nine seasons, breaking this down into parts would probably be for the best. However, this will only proceed as a project if there is an actual interest for it. Want to hear more of my favorite My Little Pony lessons?