"A Rockhoof and A Hard Place" Review

[@gamebird9354]

When I saw this...I thought this was a veteran episode. I mean, the parallels are uncanny. Rockhoof is an old pony who is more accustomed to the old ways, went to a war with the Shadow pony with his longtime friends, came home to find the world completely changed. All his other war buddies are able to fit in by taking up old duties, fitting back into society or adapting to new roles. Meanwhile, Rockhoof, a relic of the past, considers the unthinkable, since he went into battle as a war hero, but coming back as a dead weight. When I found out this was the story they were going for, I applauded the show for telling this story because veterans don't nearly get enough credit for what they deserve, elders as well. They are the pillars of our society and they keep old stories and lessons alive. They can inspire the next generation to do great deeds, almost as great as the deeds they accomplished in their lives. Relics of the past don't deserve to collect dust. They deserve to collect respect and remembrance.

[@WendussyDynamics]

The veteran angle was precisely the vibe I got as well

[@ATG3192]

Yes! So I wasn't the only one!

[@PhoenixPonyPhoenixOwl]

Am I the only one who sees this episode as a possible allegory to suicide?

[@jademuseplays]

Oh my gosh, that is disturbingly deep.

[@justinriley]

I thought that too...

[@siramaytheshowgundragon]

Same man

[@popstarchamp]

That's what I was thinking.

[@jakebizzell4734]

No you are not.

[@gerardorodriguez7500]

Rockhoof is like captain America, because he was a legendary hero but he was trapped for a thousand years and broke free from the time loop and he ends up in the Morden Equestria

[@lukaerd6258]

Yeah but at least he can still do what he used to do. Rockhoof can't.

[@gerardorodriguez7500]

Lukaerd but at least he can tell stories to students

[@OmegaRay100]

Great, now I want to see Rockhoof in a Captain America outfit.

[@reveriemephisto1995]

My question is why the heck would Smolder and Spike have a fire-breathing contest INSIDE OF A BUILDING?! Like Rockhoof, I would freak out, too!!! ;(

[@adolfodef]

Probably for safety reasons -> That room is enchanted so fire can not escape from it.

[@reveriemephisto1995]

Argamis (SilverComet) Still scares the shit outta me. I have standards! They may be old fashioned, but there are wide-open spaces on campus. :P XD lol

[@popstarchamp]

Here are my two excuses for that: 1: Seeing that fire may put the people within Ponyvile on edge seeing it on the horizon multiple times. (Contradictory I know but that's one of the things I'm going with) 2. They wanted to make sure the school could accommodate all creatures and not have some of them have to go basically off school grounds to do something specific to them.

[@reveriemephisto1995]

Fair enough. Sometimes I get so emotionally attached to the show that I forget that magic can basically be used to solve anything and this is where it makes sense. Wait, does that makes sense? lol :P

[@Cloud-dt6xb]

@@reveriemephisto1995Exactly and I'm sure Spike picked a place where nothing would set on fire too, I'm just happy the two have something like this and they hang out together.

[@maddymiller4146]

Who else wants to give Rockhoof a hug?

[@Shrina_Dracis]

I want to so badly, but i'm afraid of his hug... I'd be crushed! :O

[@maddymiller4146]

@@Shrina_Dracis I bet he'll be gentle

[@Shrina_Dracis]

i'm certain of that, in fact. After all, he gave Yanna a gentle pat on the head. It'd just be intimidating the first time. I mean no malice, of course.

[@maddymiller4146]

@@Shrina_Dracis He's just a big teddy bear

[@Shrina_Dracis]

with awesome stories to tell! :D I loved his Ursa Major story. I wouldn't mind sitting in to listen to more stories from him. ^_^

[@KittyKatty999]

A "kids show" can give us deep, emotional, and even relatable episodes like this, so well. Meanwhile, "Adult Shows" like Family Guy and the like, are beyond immature and awful.

[@royveldboom7266]

Knowing this is what enables us to hold our heads up when haters rip the show. If only they could see and appreciate the layers we do in FIM.

[@ATG3192]

For fuckin real.

[@kioku119]

Well I think that has more to do with what American TV studios and audiences think about cartoons as a medium. They still largely treat it as something that innately is goofy and meant to placate little kids apposed to just a means of story telling that can be used to show any story than a live action show could, and can possibly present certain complex and deep stories in ways work better for some people and wouldn't be possible in a live show. In Japan they don't see it that way so we get stories for kids and stories for adults and that's normal, but since America sticks to those stigmas a cartoon for adults means that it must still be goofy and cartoony but must proove that it's okay for adults to be watching (and clearly not something kids should ever see because God forbid you watch the same thing) as often as possible. We are getting some improvement in this area with shows like Bojack Horseman, Bob's Burgers, Rick And Morty, and Archer where there are more compelling characters, some deeper themes, a little more attention to continuity, and more intelligent humor but they still are comedy series and I don't personally know any American adult cartoons that break beyond that genre.

[@sadlobster1]

I really loved this episode so much! Maybe it's because I love Rockhoof, out of all the pillars. Maybe it's the fact that he's essentially, like a Norseman (complete with a viking rune for a cutie mark) or maybe its because like him, I ALSO have a great love for hearing and telling exciting stories. All in all, this was a really great episode (in my eyes) and I wish there actually WAS a class in schools where teachers would tell stories to kids the way Rockhoof does. Yes, I KNOW we have our English/Literature classes. But it's mostly just quizzes on the stories. Never actually getting to hear a really good one. Especially the kind that can inspire you to become great; like Rockhoof's story did for Yona. Speaking of whom; if Rockhoof needs a new home, maybe Yona can ask her father if he could live in Yakyakistan

[@Stet709]

When seeing the Flash Magnus scene, I could only think "Considering his shtick is criticizing and ridiculing the equestrian military, I wonder what Firebrand would think of this?"

[@sadlobster1]

I was thinking the exact same thing

[@greenstarlover1]

Same

[@juliomontoya8824]

I actually think he'd like it, given that his actual goal is to improve on them.

[@sadlobster1]

I imagine in his review, he'd say something like this. "Excuse me, Mr. Magnus; I'd like to sign up in your garrison"

[@sarasamaletdin4574]

I guess we find in about three years when he makes to this episode. Hopefully there is more focus on Flash and maybe him interacting with Celestia, Luna and Shining Armor.

[@jademuseplays]

Josh is going to rave over the Flash Magnus part.

[@michaelaburns734]

Yep he doesn't have to complain about the guards instructions for guarding Equestria and the Princesses

[@titanhades4331]

Poor Magnus. About to have the bad influence of the horrible guards bring him down to their level.

[@kylestubbs8867]

"Rave? Please, I was the guy who _hired_ him!"

[@MadMunchkin]

I adored this episode. Definitely my favorite from this season so far.

[@1218Draco]

Mad Munchkin Same

[@sadlobster1]

Same here, Maddie...one question, though. Rockhoof's people are like Vikings, yeah? So...why does he have a sort of Irish/Scottish accent about him

[@randallwalter7589]

I totally understand why. This was an excellent episode. I just wish the phrase "favourite from season eight" meant more. Aside from the premiere, parent map, and the washouts, This season has been largely disappointing.

[@deckardcanine]

There's a precedent for vikings with Scottish accents. See "How to Train Your Dragon."

[@justinriley]

@@randallwalter7589 I think Season 8 deserves more credit than you're giving it, tbh.

[@justinriley]

It's not quite as great as "The Washouts", but it's still a very good episode nonetheless. I appreciate that they never portrayed Rockhoof as an idiot or a goofball, he genuinely tried to fit in with modern society. Yona being the one who wakes him out of his funk makes perfect sense since they're both similar in a lot of ways.

[@sadlobster1]

I actually prefer this over Washouts

[@justinriley]

@@sadlobster1 Which Is understandable, they're both terrific episodes.

[@titanhades4331]

Washouts was bad because it felt like they fladerized Lightning Dust.

[@justinriley]

@@titanhades4331 They really didn't. She played to who she was in Wonderbolts Academy, a talented, but reckless flyer who disregards the rules and safety and isn't concerned with who she hurts.

[@titanhades4331]

Except that's all they had. They didn't expand on her character at all. Just really exaggerated the little they did show of her, which is the exact definition of what fladerized means. The act of taking a single (often minor) action or trait of a character within a work and exaggerating it more and more until it completely consumes the character. That is all I saw in the Washouts.

[@monduvdsan]

Altrough I really like this episode, I have to admit that my favorite part was the last tidbit with Twilight and Spike. "Can you do that?" "Meh" Laughed at that much more than necessary for some reason.

[@justinriley]

To quote Star Butterfly: "I'm the princess, I can do what I want."

[@1tylerq127]

Anyone else get a soldier returning to civilian life feel from this?

[@ASHERUISE]

That's a good parallel.

[@ATG3192]

I did. Part of why I loved this episode as much as I did.

[@crovax1375]

Can we all stop and appreciate the turkey sound that Gallus made in the episode

[@kaneaquino8295]

Where was Applebloom!? It would've been adorable if she met her personal hero!

[@justinriley]

It would have been, but having Yona be the one who talks him out of stoning himself is more poignant since like Rockhoof, she's big hearted, but clumsy and doesn't really fit in.

[@greenstarlover1]

Stigian becoming a novel writer is the best joke of this episode.

[@deadlyponys8096]

I was more shocked over when Rockhoof wanted to be turned to stone......It's basicly Suicide

[@TheCommenterDragon]

True it would seem that the rest of the Pillars had done pretty well for themselves with fitting into modern society but The important thing about the ending of the episode is that Rockhoof finally found a way that he can fit in by being a story teller and reminding everypony about the past.

[@belleberry_bluez5707]

Dear Dr. Wolf, You have been selected for your very own personal sidekick/apprentice/daughter. We couldn't find any orphaned wolf pups, but we found an abandoned dragon's egg. It turns out that through unicorn magic it's a healthy baby girl in need of a proud papa. Dr. Wolf are you willing to adopt a cute baby and raise her as your own? To help you with your therapy sessions? She has been given the name of Golden Scale. We hope you will consider adopting her. Have a nice day. Sincerely, Madame Blue

[@Gungelion]

You know it may seem like I'm coming out of left field, but I think this lesson could apply to the people behind bronycon. Now hear me out. Just like Rockhoof the people behind bronycon are afraid it's just going to fade away, and that people are only going to remember not what it was, but what it became. But just like Rockhoof they need to discover that is not about that. It can still inspire the next generation, it still has something to contribute even if it's not the same as it was back in its so-called "glory days" Just my thoughts on the subject

[@hhs_leviathan]

Thanks for making me smile today :)

[@CircleWedge]

Me too.

[@simpsonsfanatic777]

Gungelion What did bronycon become?

[@futabanarugonzalez3399]

Yona is best Yak for Rockhoof

[@juliomontoya8824]

Funny thing, when I saw this episode, i didn't think much of it, save for the posible alegory to suicide. But what I love about this fandom is how it helps you apreciate something you originally overlooked. I honestly think this is the best way to portray "Heavy Themes": Not trying to deconstruct, but rather to reconstruct. Also, funny thing: This episode came the same week I finished off the "Legends of Equestria" comics. Loved it, and I especially love how this episode almost brought closure to it, especially with Stigyan. Also ALSO fun thing, Rockhoof was my favorite pillar in the comics.

[@fletchergilmore5020]

Yona yak has always been my favorite character when season 8 first aired

[@deckardcanine]

She hasn't for me, but she is growing on me.

[@ATG3192]

Same. Of the Young Six, Yona has been my absolute favorite character since day 1 and this episode did not help matters in the slightest. Lol XD.

[@equusheart3344]

I think you kinda missed the subtle points of PTSD, depression, and contemplating suicide. This was a good episode with a good message. Not to mention the entire time I was squeeing over the fact that Rockhoof got his own episode (I love Rockhoof! 😍)

[@fusionomni305]

This episode delved into some of the most serious topics I've seen from any kids show, and handled it with the grace and care it deserved. This is easily in my top 10 favorite episodes now.

[@royveldboom7266]

And this is one of the reasons that FIM attracted an adult audience in the first place; that it could do themes that were meaningful to adults, and yet handle them gently enough to be understood by young kids.

[@sweetdreams1028]

Rockhoof wanting to turn himself to stone and give up on life is inevitably an allegory for suicide. Yet the episode treats it as something that’s reversible, which is a terrible message to send. Once you kill yourself, there’s no coming back.

[@hannahc7950]

I saw this as a way that may introduce children to the concept that people who feel really out of place may not want to stay, not in the sense they move locations but away from life. Basically a lead up to suicide when people feel they’ve hit rock bottom

[@theberrby6836]

I *really* like this episode. Headcannon Yonna's student-teacher crush is cute.~ And... I felt soo bad for RockHoof... :'/

[@connorthompson8376]

You'r right about the talk of one's 'best self.' But when Rockhoof says he wants to be remembered as the hero he was, I think it at least involves what we think others think of us. And while it is for 'past prime' adults, I think it's also for those who struggle in the first place.

[@drathick9390]

I have to say I do feel in some way the same as Rock hoof in this episode, and that would be struggling to fit and adapt to the world around you. But I have a spirit as strong as iron to keep pushing on. Also I have to say every time I see Rock hoof, I always like to think of him as an MLP version of the dragon born from Skyrim.

[@star-stonelegend]

The episode is really touching, I really liked it. In a way this story reminds me about the time I was a lifeguard for six years straight for summer camp. I had six years of experience and lessons from five waterfront Director’s under my belt. I was probably the Best lifeguard at the camp and the campers would talk to their parents about my Legacy And their parents would talk to my parents about it, who knew I had connections? LOL But on my sixth year I was hoping to take the waterfront director position knowing that I have the skills needed, but there were some problems. From Lise told about me, from the administration not inform me in time, from having the worst waterfront Director in command because one of the parents(Who happens to be One of the members of the administration) wanted him to do something instead of nothing. I felt betrayed, hurt, all the feelings that Edward Experienced before he became Count Monte Cristo. I’m was really angry with both the administration and this new waterfront Director because they hardly trained the new recruits, so I took them under my wing and taught them everything I know. Once the summer ended I permanently resigned from the summer camp. It was only because I could see that the damage was beyond repair and I didn’t want to be part of it anymore. There was at one point in time I did join A university life guard training, but there was so many changes they made that I was not custom to it, would make sense since I use to work at a lake related area instead of a pool. But I’m actually OK with it, because I don’t think being a lifeguard would help pay the bills. But also the whole episode remind me of the movie cars 3: not giving out any spoilers for those who did not see it, but let’s just say lightning McQueen is trying to hard to race against the new generation. But it just really hurts my feeling seeing rockhoof wanting to turn into a statue it’s like Captain America wants to stay frozen, but thank goodness captain America didn’t stay. Also I actually thought rockhoof would like to live in the yak village call weird but I definitely see him fitting in. But still I like how he was able to find his place in the world telling tales and adventures.

[@dreamer5959]

Rockhoof is similar to Bojack Horseman in some way, he was the best version of himself and now he is just a shadow of himself

[@TDITDATDWT]

I just finished watching this episode and I've gotta say that this one really hit home for me. I've got depression, and I've been to some really dark places lately. When Rockhoof told Twilight that he wanted her to turn him to stone, my heart just sank. I cried during the ending.

[@ATG3192]

As someone who comes from a military family (both grandfathers, my mom, her little brother, and my little brother were/are in the Navy, my mom's older brother was a Marine in Vietnam, and my dad was in the Army) and knows a lot of current and former military personnel and has read several military biographies, this episode really hit me as an allegory to the wartime veteran. Like Rockhoof, I've heard from many a veteran about how, when they got out of the military and tried to reintegrate into civilian life, they struggled and felt like they had lost that purpose in their life. This episode even took it a step farther and introduced what I can only feel was an allegory to suicide in Rockhoof asking Twilight to turn him to stone, and most people who are in the know about the military lifestyle know that, on average, 22 veterans a day sadly end up taking their own lives. Tbh, I honestly think this was one of the best episodes this season, and even of the entire series and I loved it. This episode really tackled some really deep and potentially dark themes in such a well-thought manner that I can't help but appreciate the subtlety behind this episode.

[@nicolemusic02]

Also saw this with the Australian release and it actually made me cry near the end, cause even though I’m young, I used to feel a bit like Rockhoof. So this touched some heartstrings

[@cofagrigusfan24]

next week ''What Lies Beneath'' a very intresting episode

[@hlk323]

nathan prins yeah. It is! And that ending!😱

[@justinriley]

Possibly the best episode of the Season.

[@justinriley]

@Timber Humphrey It does, trust me.

[@element4806]

A great review like always Dr. Wolf ^-^ You made a lot of points I didn't think of when I saw the episode. Can't wait for your next video^^

[@dirtclanproductions4099]

Rockhoof is the best defense against the dark arts teacher!

[@GPischke]

I thought the episode went to a bit of a dark place when Rockhoof asked to be turned to stone. I'm sure they didn't intend for it to be quite so dark, but that's just where my mind went. I also thought maybe he could've been a train-puller or gone to live with the yaks.

[@ArtAngelMouse]

Amazing episode. (Although, Rockhoof looks like he'd make an amazing firehorse [fireman].)

[@pinkiepoolgamerbrony2789]

I'd find a Rockhoof and a Hard place to be quite the Good episode

[@madx10thtimberhusky10]

To bad Rockhoof never found my home land. He would have loved it there with all the sea monster's he could fight take names and gather his glory there. The Fighting Den where the greats warriors of great skill of all kinds go to show there metal. The Great Halls where story's are told and best of food is served but. Best of all The Root Beer Drinking Games haha. My dad has never lost one yet but. I bet Rockhoof could win well... Maybe my father is still the best at it and would be unwilling to give up that easy to him but. Who really cares about where I come from away and the things that go on there.

[@Benicthehedgehog]

I get the feeling that Aramau will be in love with this episode Doc. mostly because when she finds out that Yona looks up to Rockhoof and sees her cute moments with him, I think Aramau is gonna have so much heart moments. Not to mention Josh having moments of feeling like Rockhoof is going through what Captain America is going through.

[@kylestubbs8867]

"And besides, Lieutenant Magnus has a lot of good things to say about him."

[@Secret_Moon]

An excellent review DrWolf. It really improves my opinion about the episode. You did a great job addressing the moral message here. However, I still think that this episode despite having a good moral doesn't do very well to illustrate it, which makes it just average for me. One thing is that I think among the Pillars, Rockhoof should have been the one fitting in the easiest, as his forte is strength and there are a lot of thing he can use it on (train pulling, tunnel digging, good transportation, etc.). Secondly, I feel like the solution at the end of the episode is just a half-way, temporary one. Becoming a story teller doesn't feel suitable to Rockhoof, and he's gonna run out of stories quickly, not to mention those stories are not very relevant to modern day Equestria, and others are gonna get tired of them soon. And by then they will leave him and he will feel abandoned and out of place again. Instead of Rockhoof learning to accept reality it feels like they just distract and comfort him for a short while. I think it would be better if Rockhoof had already found a way to fit in, but still felt the sentiment (just doing normal work and not as great as he used to be) and so trying to prove himself to do more and caused disasters, and the mane 6 or student 6 made him understand his work is also important and got him over the disappointment. That way it will still deliver the same message but with more believable setting and doesn't throw away the potentials with other Pillars. I also feel like the writers wasted so many potentials with the Pillars here I am genuinely disappointed. There are a lot of thing the Pillars need to cope with, like the lost of their home, their family (all of them), getting over-idolized (Somnambula), change in culture and technology (Meadow, Flash) and they could have made so many good stories. They could have coupled each of them with each of the mane 6 and have them give lessons/guidances from old time to the mane 6 while the mane 6 help them learn new things and adapt to the modern society and changes in environment. There were so many potentials for good lessons and stories here (at least each of the Pillars with each of the mane 6 can make an excellent story) and they wasted it all.

[@Gokuvstheworld]

Some potential stories for the other pillars may've been wasted, but at this point, there's so many characters in the show that maybe it couldn't be helped, since there's only so many episodes for them all, So any episodes given to them has to come from somewhere. Compared to the early seasons, the attention on the Mane 6 has been dropping, and the writers don't seem like they want to take TOO much attention off them. At least that's the feeling I'm getting.

[@Secret_Moon]

It doesn't take attention off them. Like I said they could couple each of the mane 6 with each of the respective Pillars and have a wonderful episode involving both of them learning from each other. But well if they rather write stupid stories like Fake it till you make it and Non-compete cause than a meaningful story between Rarity and Mist Mane then I have nothing else to say...

[@Gokuvstheworld]

Non-compete cause might not was been good, but "Fake It Till You Make It" was at least relatively fun with Fluttershy's "characters", and the more deeper stories like what you're asking for, isn't something that this show does THAT often, though there are some. It's not something we should really expect much of, despite the fact that there's several great options to use for them, such as with the other pillars. Even though their are some episodes with them, this isn't really the show to watch for the deeper, compelling stories, and it is more on the light-hearted side, and it always have been. It sometimes seem like we just expect too much out of this show like it's an anime or something. The writing could definitely be better though, even for the less compelling episodes.

[@Gokuvstheworld]

But from what I've been hearing, G5 of MLP is supposed to be more geared for older viewers, so if that's true, than it may have more of those compelling stories.

[@Secret_Moon]

It sounds sad when you say we shouldn't expect too much of MLP. Isn't it because the show exceeded what we expected from a typical "little girl show" that we love it so much? And it's not like they do not strive to write deeper, more mature stories. They did go for such a deep, adult moral right with this episode after all. Why didn't write several more? It's not like I am expecting something beyond what they have done before. Secondly, I am not asking too much of them. What I meant by "wasting potential" is that such stories between the mane 6 and the Pillars were quite easy to write. You had all the settings feeding story ideas to you already, and all they need to do was fleshing it out. Couple one mane 6 with her respective Pillar and it's like a mountain of ideas for meaningful stories. I can think of the outlines for such 2 stories off the top of my head right now. It would be much easier than making new stories, while the end results would be much better.

[@MsWondergirl007]

yona and that little shovel makes me squeee so much

[@platypusfox73]

I also like the fact that Stygain got a mention since I didn't think we actually hear anything about until the upcoming Nightmare Knights mini series. Even though it was only a small nod it's nice to know what he's been up to since the end of Shadow Play.

[@jonatannoisnorrason3511]

well take captain america aka Steve rogers for example he has been frozen in ice in ww2 where he battle against hydra and red skull and awaken in modern world were he has hard time fitting in until he team up with group of superhero like hulk ironman thor hawkaye who was been mind control by loki black widow then later in winter soldier he was running with sam aka the falcon then meet his old friend bucky barns aka winter soldier who was been mind control by hydra then lader he meet up with other in ages of ultron then civil war and last infinity war

[@kylestubbs8867]

3:30 "It's a tough job, but Commander Firebrand trusts me to do it right!"

[@Spritzkrieg]

But oooh man, could you imagine if Twilight obliged Rockhoof and turned him to stone? Stored away in some cavern, only to be reawakened when Equestria is in need... not a bad alternative for the guy. Still, for the moral's sake, I'm happy for how it ended.

[@privateinvestigatorrick7406]

"And we never saw Rockhoof again.....because he probably got dusted. Oh snap" - Funny or Die

[@autumbreeze1129]

Am I the only one who wants to see Rockhoof wrestle with Prince Rutherford, or at least another adult yak?

[@MelodySnowflakeVA]

I love this episode so much! Hit me write in the Feels! I was waiting for your review on it :)

[@ChipperFoxtrotVA]

810th LIKE!!!!! Seriously, thanks for the in-depth review on this great episode from Season 8. I love how you identified how this is an allegory of a person finding his/her calling in the same world's different timeline. As a person with a developmental disability, it's really hard to find a job where, despite having very talented skills at a job, a few key areas you have that aren't that great discourages you from having said job. All of which can easily discourage you and give you the habit to hide from the world for some time before coming back. It's all up to you to never give up and keep going forward to achieve the career you need in life. I also love how another commenter mentioned this episode parallels to veterans.

[@DRWolf001]

Glad to be of service :)

[@TheMoonshadowMysteryChannel]

I loved the interactions with Rock Hoof and Yona Yak. Honestly it felt like true admiration on her part as well as a little bit of a crush on the teacher, which is realistic. But I felt so bad for the Nordic pony.... I've related to that feeling of being lost and not knowing your purpose, like your talents you thought had value and use just were not needed or couldn't be utilized, honestly him wanting to be turned into something other than himself was far more relatable than I ever wanted to admit to myself. At the same time I felt they missed an opportunity. What I mean by that is that they could have called back to another episode from good ol' Appleoosa and had Rock Hoof meet Trouble Shoes, who lets not forget is another larger than everage stallion who himself had talents he couldn't really understand the usefulness of but who was desperate and passionate to fit in. Sure the context is slightly different but the connection there would have been so believable and relatable. Additionally I half expected Yona to invite Rock Hoof to the Yak Kingdom. After all their frequent issues with avalanches due to their smashing and boisterousness would be something that he could help with given his own talents. Even so i'm so glad it worked out for him, this episode if nothing else did help to sew the seeds of hope that anyone can fit in with patience and determination. Which I honestly needed to see for my own self. A great review as always Doctor Wolf. Sincerely, the rainbow-eyed bug pony, Compound-Eyes (aka Moonshadow mystery / Moonlight Shadow) the changeling

[@brigidtheirish]

With all the smashing, I half expected them to send him to Yakyakistan. Not sure how they would've framed that as a lesson... maybe that even if you can't go back home, there's a place out there that can be a new home? Or how sometimes entirely different people (ancient ponies and modern yaks) can have similar cultures? But I think the lesson and resolution they went with is more appropriate. Or at least easier to get across. And *definitely* one aimed more at adults. Wow. Heck, *I'm* only in my mid-thirties and find myself tearfully relating to Rockhoof's plight. My place in the family and the world seemed so much clearer and easier when I was a kid. Sure, I wasn't always happy with it. I wanted to do *more* and see the world beyond my hometown. But as an adult I realized how much more complicated life is and how my particular skills and limitations don't quite fit with the current culture. I've managed to find a place, but it's a little unconventional and took nearly a decade of desperate searching and failing. I want to give Rockhoof just a big hug!

[@Next0gen0]

Something tell's me that the writer of this episode watches Bojack Horseman.

[@TheSlinkyDogg]

When I was getting ready to graduate from High school. I felt the same way Rockhoof did. I was a good student. Got good grades, (for the most part. No F at least) never got into trouble, and the staff felt they can trust me to tell the truth if something happens or is going to happen. But when graduate was coming around. All my friends were talking about all the collages they got accepted into. And I was the only one among my friends that didn't get accepted into any collages. I didn't feel ready to take one collage right after high school. So I didn't apply to any. Not even the collages I would like to attend. But after hear my friends talk about the collages they were going to go to. And all the stuff they plain to do after collage. I was worry I made a mistake. And become a disappointing student and niece. Luckly I tall to my Aunt about it. Or else I probably was going to make and even bigger mistake. Becuase not long after they started their first year of collage. All of my friends told me they wish they had waited like I did.

[@saturnsoul8377]

To be remembered, not to bring upon disappointment.... a fade of a shadow where things were dark yet darker but the was light yet linger; a clutch, or path learn of wise a lesson to touch.

[@dracohalo117]

A question, one that has been bugging me for some time. What do you do when you seek to be more, but cannot achieve that which you desire most, not because you are not capable, but because your responsibilities that you have taken on yourself are barring your path, and you are afraid to remove that which have barred your path not because you aren't capable of removing those barriers but because holding them up has become a duty?

[@maverickbna]

I really liked this episode. It reminded me of the ST:TNG episode "Relics", where they encounter Capt. Montgomery Scott, and he is put in this exact situation.

[@byronbrooks6366]

I was shocked at how close to home Rockhoof's struggle was to me. All those attempts obtaining a career and trying to find inspiration from his friends just burning him out reminded me greatly of my own struggles of obtaining a job, culminating in me falling into the same pit as Rockhoof did this episode. All of which makes me rates as the best episode this season.

[@emeraldnoir7099]

This episode really reminded me of an old Torchwood episode. For those who don't know, Torchwood was a spin off of Doctor Who. It featured an immortal man named Jack. In that episode, Jack and his team wait for an airplane to appear in the sky. Some decades ago, this airplane had gone up, flown into a rift, and now was about to land. To them. no time had passed. To the world.. decades had. When it lands, Jack and team have to help them accept their new life... but one man cannot accept it. Sadly, MLP has a better ending. Rockhoof wants to be turned to Stone so he can return to life later. But in the torchwood episode, the man kills himself because it's to late to start over. Jack dies alongside him.. and afterwards admits that the hardest part of doing their job.. is when there is no evil to fight. Only lost people to help. Not every person who feels lost is outside of their time. Some just need an honest Twilight or Jack to help them along.

[@jimmyhook4852]

RQOTD: Which Pillars of Equestria Member do y'all like the most? :3 For me, I have two favorite Pillars of Equestria Members: Meadowbrook and Somnambula.

[@Soulsnatcher89]

You know I didn't think that deeply about the episode until you elaborated on it. I usually look into episodes and analyze more than I should. And while I'm still young (29) my health has declined since my early 20s. I found out about a debilitating heart disease I have, that while not fatal, keeps me from the physical capabilities I possessed. And it wasn't from slacking. But from just days that suddenly hit harder than ever. And now from doing 3 mile sprints with ease. I'm lucky if I can do half a mile before feeling winded. I try of course but, there is only so much I can do. Moving on, now that I see your point, I feel more for this episode now

[@CircleWedge]

I haven't seen the whole episode yet but I found your review helpful and impactful.

[@francisreuter6294]

i liked this episode and that is showed the pillars and what they are doing now minus starswirl because we saw him in an earlier episode, but you think during the teaching thing twilight would have thought how about do the class outside so the destuction by him is less and so he can moved around like he wanted to

[@matthewcrombie3630]

Sunburst must be freaking out what with Mistmane being in the Crystal Empire now. Imagine all the lore he can discover in just one interview! ...Wait... Is that why he wasn't there in "On the Road to Friendship" watching Star and Trix's magic performance even though Cadence and Flurry were? I kinda wondered why he wasn't there too... Now we know.

[@jeremymaul6275]

Hey Doc i got a idea how about we send Rockhoof to The Yaks?

[@sonicgen20]

2:16 Wait, I thought Daring Do was the Indiana Jones of Equestria. So are there two Indiana Jone's in this world?

[@Tekdruid]

"I want to be remembered as the hero I was, not the disappointment I am now." *Hoo boy* , do I know that feeling.

[@Galimeer5]

My favorite part of the episode was seeing Flash Magnus kicking the Protective Pony Platoons (PPP) into shape. I and many others have felt Equestria's military was a joke and not in a funny way. In "A Canterlot Wedding," we saw that the EUP Guard was stepping up defenses because, as Shining Armor put it, "A threat had been made on Canterlot." They looked like an actual formidable fighting force, but the next time we saw them, they were gooed up and the changelings were unhindered in their attack on the city. Additionally, in the MLP Movie, Canterlot was invaded once again, three of the four princesses were incapacitated, ponies were being captured and put in cages, and it's safe to say that the capital city of Equestria was conquered in less than a day. The real kicker? Equestria's military was nowhere to be found. Completely absent when their country needed them most. Equestria's allies were also absent as neither Griffonstone, the Crystal Empire, nor the Dragonlands came to aid. I'm certain the Friendship Festival will go down in Equestrian history as the greatest political/military humiliation in history, on par with France surrendering to German invasion in, what, seven weeks? So imagine how elated I was to find out Flash Magnus, an Equestrian Legionnaire from back when ponies took on dragons in open combat _and won,_ was in command of the PPP. Furthermore, he was actually enforcing military discipline in not only Celestia's white/gold Day guard, but also Luna's grey/blue Night guard. While I'm pretty sure that brief scene in "The Cutie Re-Mark" where Equestria was at war with the Crystal Empire in an alternate timeline is the only time we'll see the PPP in action, I'm also pretty sure there won't be another military disgrace in Equestria's future now that said military is being taken seriously.

[@thedreamchasers7252]

I could imagine the stone sleep being like a cryo pod, Rockhoof could be like Master Chief, “Wake me, when you need me”

[@connorthompson8376]

You're right about how they set this one up, with them all fitting in. But I had wanted more Pillar episodes. My guess is that they considered that but rejected it.

[@Hydrazilla98]

I thoroughly enjoyed this one. Rockhoof has skyrocketed as my favorite of the pillars. He was number three but this one definitely made me love this big lug. An easy 6/6 for me

[@jasminerodriguez7933]

Stil your review is still !!!!awesome!!!! and keep doing what you are doing 😍😭😆😎

[@richardwillett]

Love to see Rockhoof go to Yakyakastain and smash stuff with the Yaks!

[@beatrixthegreat1138]

I love when kid shows have stories like this because it teaches them empathy. Not just empathy for other kids but in this case empathy for adults, they see a different way of looking at adults, that they can be human and that’s not something kids always think about.

[@christiantwist3360]

3:37 of course he could, the guards suck and they needed someone to whip them into shape

[@onealone-jt8oi]

Do you think the show was very gently touching on depression, suicidal ideation, possibly even euthanasia, or am I way too overthinking this episode?

[@dexterthoma867]

I just got a wingding Dr. Wolf which is another way of me saying I got an idea what if you had a therapy session with the pillars I’m just saying you did it with the main six this is another idea you don’t have to do but I would love to see

[@Gokuvstheworld]

Rockhoof was already my favorite of the pillars, and after this episode, he locked that spot as my #1 favorite pillar.

[@tristanmilner9511]

"Take her talent pool..." Easy Doc, your Oin is showing.

[@ErikButterworth]

This was a pretty good episode to see all of the Pillars again, sans Star Swirl, especially focused on Rockhoof as he tried to adapt to modern Equestria. While the other Pillars settled into roles befitting their skills or past experience, Rockhoof just couldn't figure it out until Yona showed how his stories inspired her to wanna be like him, thus giving Twilight the idea to make him a storyteller of history, as he could pass on the knowledge of Equestria's past to the next generation through his stories. I really enjoyed this episode, Dr. Wolf.

[@jessupshutt3557]

+DrWolf001 another great video and this episode does show everyone another great lesson for people to know and understand so that we can hopefully understand others better

[@doctorhunter5553]

Very true when celeberties, great people and even a sage will no longer be all about them is hard for them to accept. You made this episode more clear maybe you should be in equestria daily to

[@fenix23]

This episode reminds me that one episode of Star Trek TNG when Scotty was brought back from teleport pattern on some Dyson sphere and couldn't fit in their modern times.

[@Calum79]

This episode, this message, this is why I love My Little Pony.

[@EmeraldDragon]

Kind of surprised they didn't have him working on the Apple Farm at some point.

[@ZenHoof2013]

I still wondering where is Rockhoof suppose to live now? because he don't have home or house.

[@PirateForHire314]

It's sad in that this was, yet again, another Twilight-Applejack episode where they were shoed-in rather than showing them attempting to accomplish a friendship problem but with different perspectives. On a positive it does show that these two ponies, despite being so different in many ways, can seemingly bond and coexist together so easily with minimal-to-no conflict whatsoever. TWIJACK = BFFS of Mane 6!!!!!!!!!

[@erieperry8241]

this episode reminded me of the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode Relics (season 6 epi 4) where the crew of the Enterprise-D comes across a old Starfleet vessel that had crashed on the surface of a Dyson Sphere and find Montgomery Scott, AKA Scotty from the Original Series, preserved in a transporter and how Scotty adapts to life in the 24 Century and how he may have been a miracle worker in the 23rd Century on the original Enterprise and the Enterprise-A only to find that his way of doing things and much of what he felt he had to offer as an individual were gone and in many ways he was just in the way. they each found ways to contribute to the younger generations, Scotty and Rockhoof. this lesson is not as well taught as it was inn ages gone by. when ones best days have gone by does not mean that they as people are only a burden. their wisdom and experience can be of great benefits to the younger generations. the role of the wise elder of the village. someone to teach and inspire the youth

[@graveyardshift2100]

Oh look, guards actually shown doing something. Someone tell Firebrand.

[@partyjams]

I really enjoy these concise reviews. Season 8 has some strong episodes

[@justinriley]

It really does. For as many duds or mediocre episodes "Non Compete Clause" and "Yakity Sax", Season 8 boasts far more gems like "Surf and/or Turf", "Horse Play", "The Break Up Breakdown", "Molt Down", "The Hearth's Warming Club", "On The Road to Friendship", "The Washouts", and now this.

[@someothername2585]

Wow! what a great review of a great episode

[@travissmith2848]

Or for writers who themselves no longer know what to do with a library of characters or have come on to a series where it seems everything worth doing with the current pantheon has been done?

[@genius11433]

Hmm.... Personally, I liked the episode. Rockhoof was able to find a place in the world as a teller of stories, and the episode had quite its few funny moments (e.g., the bees, Rockhoof falling asleep at Somnambula's presentation). However, thinking about it from the angle of a person who's past his prime...that angle makes the ending a bit depressing IMO. Here, we have this Herculean character, and nowadays, all he can do is tell stories and try to relive his glory days that way. He could do so much more..and all he's doing is giving tall tales. I see what you're going for, Doc: If you feel like you're past your prime, then focus on imparting your wisdom to the next generation. But still, technically speaking, Rockhoof isn't past his prime.

[@truexenith8596]

I loved this episode; I could tell SmurfVlogs didn’t share my enthusiasm, however.

[@ascasebastiancevallos1582]

Great setup you are right Dr

[@hlk323]

He wanted to take suicide. He said turn me into stone

[@wolfdreamer8113]

I think he should have gone to Appolusa or Yakyakastan both places sound like a place for a pony like him.

[@PFGFrankly]

3:11 I'm new but HOW CAN HE FLY.