"Appleloosa's Most Wanted" Review

[@PinkieLopBun]

Did Troubleshoes reminded anyone else of Eeyore?

[@The_Ferbguy]

PinkiePie97 I thought the same thing.

[@memethyst]

PinkiePie97 I WAS TRYING TO THINK OF WHO HE REMINDED ME OF AND NOW I GOT IT. EEYORE!

[@AJponyAPschannel]

Indeed, and the backstory

[@FazzSatoshi]

***** It's the depressed donkey from Winne the Pooh.

[@JCBro-yg8vd]

PinkiePie97 He sounded quite like Eeyore. I want to believe Peter Cullen was voicing him, but more than likely it was Peter New doing a Cullen impersonation.

[@infernoreg1709]

what made me interested in this episode was that there were ponies in their world that have cutie marks that they don't want or are a problem in their life. This gives Starlight's cause purpose, and a reason for others to join.

[@bbd5539]

I see what you mean, but the cutie mark wasn't the problem in his life. He just had the wrong perspective.

[@infernoreg1709]

well yes, but the cutie mark itself gave him bad luck, he only didn't know how to make that a positive for him. But, if he didn't learn that his talent would benefit a rodeo clown, he would have continued to live his life believing he was nothing but bad luck. If I was him and found out that there was a way to remove it from me, then I too would have joined the equalists. Most people who do bad things in the world do them because they don't know how to put those skills to a better use..... or because they find some joy in it.

[@bbd5539]

Inferno Reg There was no 'bad luck'. He was just clumsy.

[@infernoreg1709]

was there? He believed there was before learning where it actually was usefully.

[@bbd5539]

Yeah, he believed that, but it wasn't necessarily true.

[@pokemaster361]

DRWolf001 Me personally, I think this was just another episode used to press the idea that Cutie Marks ain't all sunshine, rainbows, Clear Skies, and Fluffy Clouds. People are expecting Starlight Glimmer to show up again at some point and take even more Cutie Marks, potentially starting with outcasts in society that are ostracized by virtue of their "special talent". It's not hard to imagine a pony having to live with the MLP equivalent of The Scarlet Letter. Worst comes to worst, the Cutie Mark Crusaders will earn their Cutie Marks this season only to have them stripped away by Starlight Glimmer as part of the Season 5 finale. Something tells me that the CMC are going to get a lot of focus this season, ultimately building up to the idea for them to found an organization dedicated to helping others find their inner Cutie Mark and learning how to utilize skills of the trade assigned to them in order to succeed in the real world (basically like a traditional college or apprenticeship). This episode wasn't anything glamorous, but I can smell some set-up behind it. This is likely going to be a recurring theme for the season.

[@niamy1]

The sheriff might have taken his keys with him if she didn't magic them away.

[@PinkieLopBun]

Exactly what I was thinking.

[@CrescereXScithe]

niamy1 But, on that reasoning, if he was going to take the keys away, he would have checked for them and noticed they were gone. And then it may have potentially been even worse with him finding Sweetie Belle having the keys, or simply not leaving until the keys were found

[@miniman649]

CrescereXScithe yeah, but they didn't know that he would leave without the keys. It could very well just have been a way to make sure they would have the keys. Trying to take the chance of guessing if he leaves with or without keys was too big.

[@CrescereXScithe]

I guess. But, personally I can't really see any good way that this plan could have been executed. The way it DID manage to go seems a bit like plot convenience. I can say that the plan not being entirely thought out by the CMC could make sense to their character, but the outcome of the plan working so well in their favor seems like it was slightly lazy writing. I dunno. It was an okay episode. Like Dr. Wolf said, it wasn't bad -- just alright.

[@Tillyard86]

niamy1 Then what they should have done is, get him to leave first and magic the keys off him after he's left. In fact that might have been easier because Sweetie Belle would be able to get closer to him. It seemed to me like they just wanted to show off Sweetie Belle doing magic, like what was the point of that lifting that barrel near the end?

[@Wiiguy1606]

Out of the Season 5 episodes shown so far: This is the weakest. Not bad, just weak compared to the others. Still, there are 20 episodes left. It will pick back up! Despite this weak episode, the CMC helping someone else out is a huge plus for me! Also, forget Cranky Doodle Donkey, forget Maud Pie, Trouble Shoes is the best character equivalent to Eeyore I've seen in MLP!

[@drow_Lilith9940]

WiiGuy2014 to be fair If this is the weakest of the season so fair it means so fair it been pretty good season lol

[@honeytonguemamao6816]

ryan bell Here here! This Season is the best so far. And honestly, I really liked this episode. Sure it was kinda predictable at some parts, but it really had it's funny moments (those two ponies with the torch and pitchfork XD), and of course Trouble Shoes- or as I like to now call him- Eeeyore 2.0. =^.^=

[@masteryoshi87]

Honeytongue Mamao Cool I also was thinking Eeeyore.

[@xhaterkillerx]

+Honeytounge Mamou Exactly what I am talking about!!!

[@drow_Lilith9940]

Honeytongue Mamao well my Dream for the CMC is that their cutiemarks is for helping people learn about their cutiemark and this ep give me a tease of that that or have apple bloom be the first char to die on the show since that be very cool ep to see how her big sister reacts

[@Hulksmasher1995]

While I'll admit it's not as memorable as other episodes my favorite aspect of it was that the CMC helped out another pony to find their true calling. As characters who still don't know their own, it was heartwarming to see them realize what's going on with Troubleshoes and try to help him. I would love to see this come back in a future episode, maybe even be a part of the story of how the CMC finally get their cutiemarks :)

[@thekinotion6505]

is it a coincidence that this is the first episode without a song this season?

[@RedCordPlayer]

Yea, I have to admit the episode had the makings of a good story but it was poorly executed. The pacing felt slow and rushed in most scenes and the characters didn't offer anything new to the episode. I had to watch the episode a few more times but sadly it still didn't do much for me.

[@e1iteyoshi998]

Redcord CHN I still like this episode, but to me this episode was very predictable from beginning to end.

[@e1iteyoshi998]

***** I'm sure it will turn out better.

[@HubPie3]

If there's one thing Dave Polsky should stay away from when it comes to his writing, it's a supernatural force or luck. Feeling Pinkie Keen, while not a bad episode in my eyes, portrayed its moral in a very sloppy way, ruining the point of the episode. When he transitioned to Sonic Boom, he wrote Unlucky Knuckles, a disjointed mess that completely changed its plot halfway through the episode and showed Boom Sonic at his absolute worst, and was overall a much more mean-spirited Feeling Pinkie Keen only without the humor to back it up. What surprised me about this episode is that while Polsky's luck with... well luck, has improved since Unlucky Knuckles, it's still not very subtle. I didn't find myself *too* annoyed by Trouble Shoes' constant complaining about having bad luck, but it got repetitive pretty quickly. I liked how we got to see Appleloosa, Brayburn, and see it get a visual upgrade since Season 1, and I liked the moral of discovering what you're meant for in life, and what you're not. That being said, this episode was pretty average. I put it on par with Castle Sweet Castle, since like that episode, there isn't a whole lot going on in it, and that can come off as a little boring on repeated viewings. Also, Brayburn is the worst babysitter ever, and those gags with him getting hit with hay were deserved (only kidding, because that was pretty funny). I would have liked Trouble Shoes a little more if his character was more subtle, but in the end, I liked his character, and his voice was pretty cool, as it reminded me of Eeyore from Winne the Pooh. While not a bad episode in my eyes, Appleloosa's Most Wanted came off as a little disappointing to me, but I don't think it's bad, just average.

[@crystalqueen9711]

Isnt Boom Sonics absolute worst *anything* related to the Wii U game?

[@HubPie3]

Zero Ace I was talking more about how his character acted in the episode. After Unlucky Knuckles, there's no redeeming him.

[@crystalqueen9711]

Hub Hikari Was there ever to begin with? *Ba dum, tish!*

[@HubPie3]

***** Yes, he did write Over a Barrel.

[@splicetape9435]

Overall I didn't find that much humor in the episode, the main reason I watch, but the scene with the harmonica, exactly what I've imagined in every western.

[@SpongeyTheEditor]

I don't see this one as forgettable for one reason: Troubleshoes. Not so much him himself but the stuff he goes through. I mean we see someone actually misinterpret their cutie mark and become unhappy with it! that's damn interesting and a really weird and neat concept that i like. it goes deeper into the concept of cutie maker's jut like cutie map and bloom and gloom. I fail to see how you can forget that.

[@Pinstar]

Continuity error: How could buffalo have been attending a rodeo in Trouble Shoes's flashback as a colt if peaceful co-existence (not to mention Appleoosa itself a year prior) had not been established until the events of Over a Barrel?

[@akmalsy159]

Pinstar Well, it could be a different town, like Dodge Junction or Canter Creek. I'd imagine Buffaloes from those places have no problem with the local ponies.

[@newfrickinshow]

Pinstar If you recall Appaloosa is only two or three years old. It had to have been a different town.

[@Doughboy123x]

Who said the buffalo were being peaceful? Maybe Trouble was practicing alone and the buffs happen to come by and enjoy the 'show'.

[@hugovandyk9918]

Pinstar. Correction. It was never stated in "Over A Barrel" whether or not buffaloes had or had not lived peacefully with ponies before Appleoosa was established. The whole Appleoosa thing was a relatively new sore point for the Buffaloes because the town's orchard was planted right in the middle of their traditional stampeding grounds/trail and the settlers refused to move it. There were no other points of conflict stated, present or past. Who's to say ponies hadn't been in peaceful contact with buffaloes before then or in other places where the towns were close to the stampeding grounds but not in the way? In fact Trouble Shoe's flashback is now the earliest example of peaceful co-existence between Buffalo and ponies.

[@givemeoats]

Pinstar The Buffalos had beef with the new Appleoosa, and maybe that flashback was back in their old town or something... idk

[@Bloodskyangel]

I facepalmed at the jailbreak. Great lesson for the kiddies.

[@ASHERUISE]

***** Not everything is a lesson? And it's not like a child is actually capable of breaking someone out of jail.

[@Bloodskyangel]

ASHERUISE Twas a joke my child. Twas only a joke.

[@andrewkful]

***** Now how frequently have been seen a jailbreak in a children's show?? VERY many!

[@Bloodskyangel]

andrewkful I'm judging that your mood matches your profile picture.

[@barsni4779]

*****Yea, who would believe all you must do to organize a jailbreak is to distract the sheriff? There should be more details on the escape routes and practical use of explosives.

[@thatdudeinthehoodie]

I thought this was more of a redo of Bridal Gossip with a few changes. I enjoy seeing Breaburn again and more of the town. Also I'm one to take into account that the show will not always have on the mark episodes and with the CMC I tend to lower my expectations since those ones are very hit and miss because of how hard it can be to write three characters consistently and keep them different. I personally was satisfied on it. It's not Flight to the Finish quality. But it's still better than most CMC episodes.

[@TheNinjaDC]

Can't wait for the next episode. We finally get that Fluttershy & Discord episode I've been complaining about since Keep Calm, and as a bonus, Smooze. Sadly, we seem to have to wait 2 weeks for it...

[@Tijopi11]

TheNinjaDC Spoilers, man! ...but as a fluttercord shipper, I agree.

[@camille2175]

I love Troubleshoes! I found him adorable and funny. Most of the time, I felt so sad for him! But, it's true the episode wasn't great, but it's normal. We aren't going to get great episodes all the time and it's not that big of a deal. It's just going to make us like the next episode more! :)

[@NicolasDominique]

I mostly remembered two comedy things about that episode: part with pony playing of harmonica and these two ponies with torches :P And to me it was slightly better than the previous episode. Maybe because there are consequences ;p

[@miniman649]

Well for me personal I found the idea of ponies actually be able to misunderstand or misread their own cutie marks to be a truly interesting idea, even if we might never see that thing appear in the show again. It gives cutie marks a bit more realism and also makes us able to understand them better. It shows us that cutie marks aren't some kind of magical way to let you know where you will be in life and what you will be doing for the rest of your life. It also requires a bit of work and thought for the pony in question to realize what it means. It also adds a bit of darker element to Equestria. Who is to say this hasn't happened to somepony else? What if there are other ponies out there who never got to their true place in life, because they misunderstood their cutie mark and went to pursue something else that wasn't their special talent? Also DRWolf. With the scene of Sweetie Bell taking the keys, it could very well just to make sure the sheriff wouldn't take the keys with him, when he left. Just a thought of my own to why it happened.

[@SereKabii]

Beyond everything what you said, i also found it really annoying that the CMC are trying so hard to get their cutie marks... yet again. This is Season 5, guys! Eh, whatever, this episode gets a C+ from me. Weakest of the season, but still watchable.

[@SereKabii]

James the Fabulous Pokéfan Most likely ^^'

[@ZGuy0fSci]

lennonluiz0907 its almost like they're the CMC and being the CMC is a stick of theirs.... just a guess. ^_< What they are not doing is constantly _Doing_ lots of random mildly dangerous and disruptive things to try and blindly get a mark, rather are putting a tad more thought into things before actually going out doing things for actuals.

[@sortashrimp]

lennonluiz0907 Yeah. I didn't like how in the end, what they took out of EVERYTHING they had done for Troubleshoes was "WE DIDNT GET OUR CUTIE MARK" and Applejack had to step in and tell them that they did a good deed. I need an episode where the CMC does something like this, but learn a lesson on their own from it. Maybe that will lead to their cutie marks, maybe it won't. But, I'm tired of the "WE DONT HAVE OUR CUTIE MARKS BAW BAW" card. We're in Season 5 now. I think it would be rather interesting to see them adjust to having their marks rather than without.

[@tonyscott663]

lennonluiz0907 After everything they go through, they honestly deserve their cutie marks.

[@rachanabaditha9618]

I just felt like Trouble Shoes was a pretty boring character. All he did was act gloomy. Even Eeyore from Winnie the Pooh has something likable about him. I was honestly annoyed by Trouble Shoes from the start! He didn't have much of a character, which disappointed me since the idea itself was very interesting.

[@runwolf3571]

besides the bad jokes form shows like tom and Jerry in the episode. one thing that i really enjoyed was the fact that the CMC were helping a pony with tpere tallent. it shows that they can do more like this and i want to see more of this in the future. the cmc can help other ponys with and without cutiemarks maybe making them change the rule of if u have a cutiemark u can still me a cmc allowing babs as a cmc still

[@MaesterAelix]

Dr. Wolf: To me, this episode was rather interesting. Beyond seeing TroubleShoes, a new body type and a return to Appleoosa -- For me is seeing some continuity for the CMC. Its all small moments. Sweetie-bell starting to peel away from the group (cautious, clumsy), Scootaloo afraid of lightning, Applebloom going head-stong. So, I do see that they are developing - just more subtle than most season 5 episodes. Since they have been trying so hard, for so long, to get their Cutie Marks- this actually lets them share that knowledge. They are becoming cutie-mark experts. I would love to see one of them (I'm looking at you Sweetiebell) to become some kind of child psychologist - helping lil fillies and bucks find their cutie marks, and help them deal with that span of time when they don't. Plus, going on the CMC theme - here is a pony that misunderstood their cutie-mark. What makes me mad is that it took him his entire life to understand this. He's a full grown horse after all. But, that isn't really taken into account. I have to say that this episode's worst quality was being 'too subtle' - the subtle drop that "all the rodeo's in Ponyvill have been cancelled for some reason" - the subtle advancement of the CMC and the subtle...well, everything important.

[@RosieSievers]

It was a good episode for me, the narrative could have been developed a lot better, but the CMC teaching Trouble Shoes about his cutie mark can turn a weakness into a strength was really worthwhile ^^

[@tyleradam4836]

I honestly felt the biggest parallel I've gotten from this is with the Zecora episode in S1. Ponyville was ready to write Zecora off as an outcast, kooky, or just a criminal in some way, much like how Trouble Shoes was treated like an outcast. All it took was a push in the right direction and understanding that once you get to know someone for what they are versus what you hear, it's not so bad. Twilight Sparkle saw Zecora as someone that didn't deserve swift judgement right away, much like Trouble Shoes being wrote off as a criminal by the Sheriff.

[@fatbunnt123]

Maybe they took the keys in case the sheriff decided to take them on his way out so no one could break Troubleshoes out.

[@WayneThePony]

I think the best part of this episode is that CMC did something like teaching other ponies about cutie mark than just worrying about their own cutie mark. When Apple Bloom's first thought of how troubleshoes can be more of an entertainer than just unlucky, I see how much she has grown and matured. It's good to see these three do something more than just thinking about themselves. so I think this episode is great, aside from the flaws this is a good episode.

[@hyenaedits3460]

One of my favorite moments is when Sweetie Bell uses magic, something she hasn't really done since learning it in Twilight Time, despite the distracting element it was great to see continuity. Also, Troubleshoes reminds me of Eeyore with his voice, mannerisms, and character design. The slapstick reminds me of Tom and Jerry. I like the references, and the moral, though I agree that there were too many cliches and writing errors for it to leave too much of an impression.

[@DementedDuskull]

I've noticed a pattern in the show where something always goes wrong in episode 6 of each season. except season 3 which was a half season so something went wrong there at episode 3

[@80MWH]

I was surprised how I flashed back to an incredibly old character from The Berenstein Bears series. In Bear Country, there's a very large bear known as Big Paw, who noone goes near his cave. In the Valentine's Day episode, there's a major hockey game coming up, and Sister Bear actually leaves the reclusive bear an invite to come down and join in the fun of watching the game. As well, the CMC's wandering off did make me flash back to Season 1, though moreso to 'Bridle Gossip,' where much like Zecora, we find Troubleshoes is a character who is largely misunderstood by other ponies. i think the biggest problem with the episode, is it's largely pieced together by gags and jokes. Polsky's had that issue in other episodes, where he gets a little too reliant on these 'crutches,' like 'Spike at Your Service.'

[@MackenziiRivers]

at 5:38, when the matric/bed falls, it goes with the symbols of the music in the background. also Nice review Dr Wolf, as always.

[@PlanetZoidstar]

It's an interesting idea to have a pony who is unhappy with their Cutie Mark and doesn't seem to understand its true meaning. However it does seem off that such a thing is even possible. It's a bit troubling that Troubleshoes had to go through so many years resenting his Cutie Mark and ended up needing to be convinced his role in life was to be a Rodeo Clown, which isn't what his dream was.

[@DaylightTwinkle]

I really love the part where trouble shoes broke all the beds! XD

[@forestgrump4723]

I felt like this episode was a first step toward what the CMC will actually get their cutiemarks in and that's.... being the CMC. Helping others not only to GET cutiemarks but also to UNDERSTAND them because clearly some ponies have trouble doing that. It's the only way for them all to get their cutiemarks together is if they alll get the same one, and I think that it would open up for amazing stories. So this episode will hold a memorable place in my heart for that. Plus... troubleshoes is a HORSE! I have been waiting to see an actual horse in MLP for a very long time. And since horses have cutiemarks... then yes that means Zecora's butt mark is a cutiemark, which a lot of people speculated about.

[@Toongeek45]

I said right after finishing this episode that CMC should stand for Cutie Mark Councilors after helping troubleshoes. The main thing I will remember this episode for is challenging my theory of how cutie marks work. My theory is that the tree of Harmony knows what the cutie marks are well in advance and you get them when you discover what your talent is and unlock its full potential. Troubleshoes unlocked his potential, but did not figure out what it was. That raised the question of whether my theory was true or not. But after a while, I came to the conclusion that the tree was doing it on purpose to help the CMC and Troubleshoes figure out what a cutie Mark means similar to what the tree did with the keys. I loved the heck out of having my theory challenged because it was something new to think about. So I love this episode mainly for that reason. I nerded out over where it was going. In terms of the CMC backtracking, that is a mind trick that happens to everybody. The stigma of what you once were will always be there. The right situation can call them back. The right situation can vary depending on a person's prior experiences. We don't know what exactly those are because this is a slice of life show, but it is more than possible for them to backtrack once in a while.

[@meganmoyer4212]

I can't help but be reminded of AnimatedJames's session recently upon watching this episode. Troubleshoes had a past where he was so constantly discouraged by the ponies at the rodeo that he was dubbed an outlaw which bears similarity to James's upbringing. His Cutie Mark told him that he couldn't be in the rodeo and couldn't even be near it much like how the test James took told him he wasn't fit for what he was getting himself into. Then, the CMC showed Troubleshoes that he can still be in the rodeo despite any weakness he has like how James has still found ways to be a very talented and dedicated animator as well as be very funny when he wants to be. Being just recently introduced to his special talent, it does seem that Troubleshoes now has to grow accustomed to an entirely new lifestyle later in his life identical to James's statement that he has to start over during the discussion. It's not an exact parallel, surely, but I am seeing quite a few similarities. It's very interesting how the release of this episode and AnimatedJames's session were posted almost within 24 hours of each other.

[@angelpichu1]

well, every season has their "just OK" episodes (owls well than ends well, hearth's warming eve, one bad apple, trade ya!, among only a few others) so, i guess it was season 5's turn to have one. i wouldn't worry about the quality of the stories going down, this is perfectly normal.

[@KSClaw]

I've remarked this elsewhere, but I really liked Troubleshoes, mostly because his predicament reminded me of Woe Be Gone, a character from an old Generation 1 MLP episode called "Woe is Me." Their circumstances were a bit different, but their general attitude about their bad luck was similar. I like it when the writers do this sort of thing, whether intentionally or not.

[@BradShadowDog]

Im so glad an apology didn't make up for all the destruction and property damages for once. Kinda like how i really appreciate last episode having a character having to say goodbye to a friend for a period of time, finally.

[@GrnArrow092]

With Troubleshoes, we got to see more of a variety of equestrian life in Equestria. Horses were only seen once back in season 3 when Celestia hosted royalty from Saddle Arabia. As some might call him a pony, I'd be more inclined to call him a horse because he's bigger than your standard pony. He'll be a memorable character to me since horses as well as donkeys are apparently a rare sight in Equestria.

[@TheCheeseTable1]

What stood out to me was Trouble Shoes body design. Usually, stallions are a few body designs but he is new.

[@Next0gen0]

This episode was actually a good a episode. Why? There's 1 simple term to explain an episode like this: Serviceable. It can be difficult when you raise your expectation's of a series so high, that you tend to forget that it's also just that. A series. Putting something so high up on a pedestal can often cause you to forget it's original intent. (sound familiar?) MLP can't always have some mixed formula, or hidden message's, or thought provoking moment's to it. Sometimes it just has to tell a story, and have fun doing it. IMO, that's just what this episode did. It was trying to tell a story about someone who misinterpreted there purpose in life, and the CMC came in to help him finally realize it. The journey (being the important part), while predictable to anyone who's seen story's such as this before, was interesting enough to hold it's own merit. Also, you have to remember that first and foremost that this series is still built for Kid's. The exact audience who Haven't seen these story's before. While it can be grading at time's as an adult to rehear these, ask yourself how entertained you'd be as a kid watching that last few minute's of Troubleshoe's accidental slapstick comedy. I'm not saying this episode was perfect, far from it. The scene with the key's doesn't make much sense. Also the lesson flub's itself at the end when applejack claim's listening to her would solve everything? (totally logical) The actual lesson was "sometimes doing the wrong thing can lead to the right result's. But no good deed goes unpunished". A little harsh, but otherwise fit's perfectly. Anyway, so far this season of mlp has been fairly strong up to this point. Nothing feel's rushed, and the season has started with some pretty interesting episode's. I can't wait too see what the next episode hold's. (most likely not the cmc, I think 2 episode's is enough for 1 season :P)

[@NoirNoxNyx]

The CMC helping others find their calling is an interesting idea, since it gives them another purpose and maybe even a reason to stay together as the CMC after they get their cutie marks. I say "together as the CMC" because the group was started with the intentions of getting their cutie marks and after that's done the only thing that makes sense for the group is to either disband with the members remaining close friends, or get a new goal. If they CMC realize this possible goal for the group before they all get their marks is up to the writers if they stick with this.

[@enterprise1476]

I think they took the keys first so they could be shore that Sherif Silver Star didn't take them with him when he left.

[@CheekuP]

after "Bloom and Gloom" i would say this is another episode focusing on what will happen to the club after the founding members get their cutiemarks. Gloom and bloom focuses more on their personal fears and teaches that ur not ment to fit ur cutiemark, ur cutiemark is ment to fit u. this one shows that some people still need help figuring out who they really are even after they get their cutiemark, and this could be another thing for the club to do. Also, after watching gloom and bloom and seeing applebloom get her potion cutiemark i got kind of confused. was it just to make up for the talentshow episodes and that her talent really will be potionmaking, or will it not be potionmaking because it was in this episode? (it can't be bouilding and stuff people, they havn't hinted at that after the showstoppers, potionmaking was from first episode apple bloom had some focus). i've always been thinking that either her cutiemark will be about potions, or it'll be about the club.

[@karenyeager7961]

I actually found this episode really enjoyable. This is likely because I can really relate to Troubleshoes. I have dealt with having a learning disability my whole life, and for the longest time, many people around me - including myself - viewed my disabilities as a weakness. It was much in the same way that Troubleshoes viewed his cuties mark as a weakness. It wasn't until I in my late teen that I began to view my disabilities as a potential strength instead of a fault. Because of this personal connection with the message, this episode is vying for a position as one of my favorites.

[@Nightman221k]

I really enjoyed Troubleshoes as a character, it was interesting to see a character like him who isn't immediately aware of what his gift is; I liked that.

[@No1ofgreatimportance]

Out of sight, out of mind. If the CMC had woken up the sheriff right there and then without taking the keys first, then maybe the sheriff would've seen the keys and remembered to take them with him. But this theory is based on the idea that a responsible officer of the law would keep important keys on his person rather than leaving them alone in plain sight for a good chunk of time.

[@Lucius1958]

Not horrible - but not superb, either. But the season's still young. The most memorable thing, I found, was the continuity error with Braeburn: first it's his *left* foreleg that's injured; then later on, it's his *right* - then it switches back to his left again. 7@=Q

[@redemption2]

I think we all honestly got a little spoiled. We got five episodes in a row that could be considered great or incredible in one way or another. We got a taste of a meh episode with Tanks for the Memories, if it weren't for the moral and the five stages of grief thing (and I still hate it for the sabotage thing by the way) and now we have another episode that's just mediocre at best. Personally I think if people are disappointed in this episode, its because they were expecting too much. We can't expect every pan to come up with a gold nugget.

[@darkchilde100]

I think Sweetie magicked the keys away so maybe the Sheriff wouldn't take them. But still didn't make sense as he didn't even look at the wall before he left.

[@Mashumaro99]

I thought it was good. But the biggest problem I found with the jailbreak scene, is that the keys were right there on the hook, so if a unicorn who could do basic telekinesis got arrested it would be super easy to escape. Also, Troubleshoes didn't even get proper legal representation, which he has a constitutional right to.

[@waywardpony]

While the episode was a tad predictable, with many of the lessons already learned in earlier episodes, I enjoyed the character Trouble Shoes as well as some of the timing with the jokes. It was at times delightfully over the top, and the reckless nature of the CMC didn't bother me so much as they're kids... and sometimes kids don't think, but I see the criticisms here as valid. I've already seen a good amount of fan art depicting Trouble Shoes. He's clumsy, eccentric, has some distinctive features, and was named for something pertaining to the foot... that sounds strangely familiar. Well, here's hoping we see more of him ^^

[@SunGodNika-bi2jr]

I've think the episode could have been more interesting if someone framed trouble shoes for the rodeo sabotage and the CMC tried to help the troubled horse to clear his name ( and the possibility of getting their cutie marks in detective work)

[@psycojosho]

I didn't notice that they got the keys and THEN got the sheriff to leave when I first watched, but I did think it odd on reflection.

[@Nazo-kage]

I wonder if this ep was meant to be in season 1 or 2 but the writers didn't think a story about misinterpreting a cutie Mark was needed yet so it may have been placed on the back burner until now where the season is focusing on cutie marks

[@Shearper2]

my impression of the episode was showing that the cmc in particular Sweetie Belle are maturing into their own roles and are taking responsibility for their actions. but with them still being kids it may be hard for the writers to show them maturing without it coming off as being felt as if it came out of left field. hence why SB was mentioning that maybe they shouldn't go out, but both AB and Scoots were willing to go forward with the plan. they were doing a slow build so that maybe later this or next season when they are a bit more mature it won't feel as out of character for them? So in a way this episode was more of a slow build character development episode for the CMC for a later episode/s so that that or those episodes later on won't feel as out of place. after all the cmc aren't the main characters of the show so we sometimes need a "this episode goes nowhere" story so that we can see how much each member of the cmc has grown from the last time we saw them as a group.

[@WolfGirlTsukira]

I thought the episode was more about not rushing to conclusions. Where I understand another part of the plot was that the CMC help someone understand their talent, I thought the majority of it was showing that not knowing the facts about a person can lead you to harsh, and often wrong, judgements about them. For example, the entire time, the adults kept assuming Trouble Shoes was maliciously destroying rodeos and a general bad pony, even to the point where they jumped to conclusions that he had kidnapped the CMC when they ran off without considering any other possibility. I thought that it was a good episode to tell kids to not do this when met with a situation where they don't know everything.

[@timothyach8333]

"Appleloosa's Most Wanted" is one of those episodes where the more I watch it, the more I like it. Some of this is others have pointed out, and some is what I myself think: 1. Sweetie Belle stole the keys to keep the sheriff from taking them when he left. 2. There are woods in Appleloosa because hey, the wood for the town has got to come from somewhere. 3. Sweetie Belle is slowly starting to distance herself from the CMC. 4. I like Troubleshoes -- his character, and his backstory. 5. The comedy, for the most part, was good. (The funniest moment was Apple Bloom's response to Applejack winning the rodeo: "Yeah, way to go.") 6. I liked the moral: Your purpose in life isn't always what you think it is. Sometimes you've got to look at life from a new perspective, and not let your past hold you back.

[@moonlightquillsstudio3620]

Well Doc, I defiantly didn't realized things like the key thing with Sweetie Belle. However, the things that stood out to me the very most was Trouble Shoes. I really relate to him in all sorts of ways, by how I myself get so much bad luck at times if not all the time. Like how I have a video I want to make, but something along the line stops me or a drawing I want to make but then I lose my motivation to make it. He & I get the worst of things to constantly happen to us all because we are tying to do simple little things with no harm or greed intended at all, but bad luck still fly's our way without control. A good example is how I am still trying to get real vectors of my OC. Well I did, but they are not 100% accurate to my drawings sadly. I also try to make them myself but cant figure out Inkscape on my own, even with a KZbin vid guide on how to. So that's why Trouble shoes really hit it off for me when he started to explain himself & his past on all his horrible luck in his life & I felt pretty emotional on the inside hearing how similar his bad luck is to mine. As for humor, I really found Breburn to be funny to me in this one^^ many times actually^^. Well, I also made a video of this episode too^^ come to my channel & see if you interested^^ & that's how this episode really stood out to me with this new character^^

[@Kayclau]

The biggest problem that I have with this episode is that it was established since Call of the Cutie that this just cannot happen. It's you figure it out and then you get your cutie mark, not the other way arround. So many weird decisions and unnecessary exposition. Why did Sweetie Belle take the keys? Why does Applejack need a reason to go to a rodeo? Why didn't Applejack know that is was goint to rain? Why were there Buffaloes in the flashback but no in the actual story? A lot of this could have been avoided if the writers had paid attention.

[@LunaProtege]

The whole "Misinterpreting a Cutie Mark" thing kind of threw off some of what I believed about Cutie Marks and how they worked... But that's about all I can think of. Seriously, I thought the idea of Cutie Marks appearing after a revelation was that its a moment of unambiguous fact. As in "I KNOW this is what I like doing, and I'm either already good at it or am going to be".

[@Rahzoruke]

As for myself it seems that a number of these episodes is gearing towards the cmc actually getting their cutie marks. At the moment I'm guessing they will get their cutie marks by the end of the season only for Starlight Glimmer to take it away from them in the season final. As for Sweetie Belle using her magic to get the keys goes I think there are a few reasons. One it was too high for them to reach, but that is easily fixed without the use of magic. So I assume she is just using her magic as much as possible trying to get practice into it. The keys where at a distance and she was struggling to move them at first. She can use telekinesis at close rang on light objects, but struggles when they are at a distance, or heavy like the barrel at the end.

[@Diamond_Aura]

3:35 You called it, good Doctor. You called it.

[@redemption2]

Okay, now that I've watched through it twice I understand a bit better what went on here and why it feels... off. This is a leftover script from season 3 or season 4. The CMC is trying for ANY cutie mark instead of what they really wanted to be their talents, essentially sending Bloom and Gloom into retcon territory with any other explanation. It also explains the ridiculous like Applejack said about "All of Ponyville's rodeos are closed for some reason." I've got a reason for you, it's WINTER! I like how Applebloom has the ability to see the underlying meaning of a cutie mark in a character, but that ability sort of came out of nowhere, and didn't really feel as fleshed out as it should have been.

[@Tijopi11]

Dulcet Tone All other ponyville rodeos were closed because of Trouble Shoes I think, haha.

[@VictoryFire88]

Tijopi11 She didn;t know that but yes.

[@wagrhodes13]

What is interesting about this episode is it strikes a very different tone than the other episodes that focus on the cutiemark concept. All other episodes indicate that cutiemarks are a deus ex machina device that automatically improves and enriches a pony's life by indicating an innate ability to focus on. This episode showed how they can be misinterpreted and can lead to anguish. Even the cutie map two part episode, which had as a theme alleged evils of cutiemarks, didn't bring this up or provide as convincing of evidence. This episode displays a flaw in a system otherwise portrayed as flawless. It may not turn out to be particularly memorable, but it is important in enriching our understanding of this fictional world we fans love.

[@thatdudeinthehoodie]

While this isn't one of the better episodes of the season. As a CMC episode it's pretty good.

[@Doughboy123x]

I think I enjoyed this episode more than you have. But I can agree, it could have been better. Anyway, my thoughts: •It's kind of a typical idea, which isn't too surprising coming from Dave Polsky. •I laughed at how much of a failure Braeburn was. And I enjoyed Trouble's clowning. Not many moments that made me think, except for maybe more on the philosophy on cutie marks. But I do like the moral. •Could be interesting. Though it would be jumping the shark if they all got a similar cutie mark. •I liked Trouble Shoes, so I wouldn't mind seeing him again.

[@AmberGriffinMH]

I think possibly what the writers were going for with the lesson of the episode is that if something doesn't turn out the way you expected or even if it goes horribly wrong you shouldn't just assume the worst and shouldn't give up on your passions. It's just a theory though :)

[@Ispod4]

One of the more immediate positives I saw when watching was the amount of creatively designed BG ponies.

[@SourceMaster]

This episode broke the chain of every episode in season 5 containing a song. Anybody else notice that?

[@randomperson9732]

When they entered the forest and sweetie belle wasn't sure it was a good idea, I thought that they would get in trouble and have that as a moral. It could've been good, but they just crushed that thought of mine when trouble shoes was shown as a "not evil" character" They at least could've used that as a mini moral, like to say "don't go YOLO on stupid things", but in the end, it almost looked like they encourage kids go YOLO on stupid things.

[@AidanRatnage]

I thought it was quite strange that the pegasi made it rain in the forest since the rodeo didn't take place there.

[@andyreacts]

Good to know we're on the same track here. Misseed alot too. The ep was meh for me as well. 6:30 My reaction exactly.

[@GPischke]

I liked the idea that a pony misinterpreted the meaning of their cutie mark and that it was the CMC of all ponies who got the chance to teach somepony else this time. I'll admit, when I saw Sweetie Belle's hesitation, I was convinced it was gonna focus on her a bit more which would've been interesting. I thought she was going to learn about how taking risks can sometimes be a good thing and I would've liked to see how they handled that. Still, for what it was, while it may not be quite as memorable as the others we've had so far this season, I thought this was a pretty enjoyable episode.

[@phoenixamaku5551]

To Dr. Wolf: Thank you for reviewing this episode, unfournately, I was unable to watch it due to having a busy weekend. So I am glad to see that you reveiewed and showed the full content episode, and honestly in my opinion i think that it shows the Cutie Marks Maturing and growing as we saw in the final episodes in Season 4 where they were Struggling to get their cutie marks. And honestly it seems as that they are maturing and possibly Accepting they Might or might not Get their Cutie Marks. I really hope that somewhere in Between we get see them finally earn it. Also a Return of my 3 Fav Villan MLP Characters i would like to see make a reappearance: King Sombra: Where he was defeated by the elements of Harmony In Season 4,(would like to see them make a movie based off that character invloving him in one of the Upcoming/or not? Equestria Movies. Queen Chryslasis: Where she was exiled to the badlands, possible return with an not her own Changlings Or A Earth Pony Army where many OCS Have reviewed that Earth Ponies had been trying to keep up and work together and one Country of Equestria had enough and allied with the Changelings. Nightmare Moon(I know we've seen it, we saw the fan films and Trailer Possibly for Season and A MLP Spin off movie:Where Luna allows Nightmare to work with her in Order to stop The Rise of King Sombra.(So honestly Dr. Wolf! THEY NEED TO MAKE A LUNA MOVIE:P) And their's my review of that episode lol Hope you enjoy reading the details of what wrote:P again thanks for reviewing that episode for us! To those who were busy and were unable to watch it!

[@niamy1]

I loved this episode. It is probably going to be in my top 5 personal episodes because I can completely relate with Trouble Shoes. As a college student not knowing what my life has in store I get the fear of not recognizing my talents and doing something that I won't be happy with. Also the full clown routine was genius and I loved it.

[@Rixec2]

I enjoyed Trouble Shoes and hope to see him again. And as for the CMC's regression, that actually is in character. Kids sometimes regress and make the same mistakes even though they have long since learned them. And I took away from this is how they are continuing the meaning of a Cutie Mark. We saw dreams of what could happen back in Bloom and Gloom, but we actually saw an example here of misinterpreting a Cutie Mark. This shows they plan on using the CMC to explore Cutie Marks further beyond getting them and how a child's view is needed to understand some things even for an adult to understand. Trouble Shoes just had very unfortunate timing when he got his as thus didn't understand what it meant and only kept on seeing it as bad. However, the CMC seeing it in different circumstances allowed them to see its true purpose and help him.

[@aztec613]

The way Troubleshoes literally measure up beside the CMC and other ponies, now that's something I'm not gonna let go of any time soon :) Still, the idea that the CMC's talents is helping others realize their own place in the world intrigues me. It could be something more than that, but it is something the writers could build on

[@RUBPROMAL]

It was ok, but it wasn't really what I was hoping for. I thought it would be more of an adventure episode. But I like the design of Trouble Shoes. I really like cold blood horses. Did some of you saw a Derpy like pony too? (19:10)

[@FoxofMaysville]

Because the CMC were open and friendly, they saw what others had missed in Trouble Shoes. Will Rogers once said, “I never met a man that I didn’t like.” To me that was the point behind the episode, helping others finds themselves. Trouble Shoes was so depressed by with he thought was bad luck; he had all but given up on life itself. We saw how he had let his home become so run down, not because he was incapable of cleaning, but because he had become so despondent he saw no point in even trying. I could understand TBBBAP not liking this episode, but I am shocked by you DrWolf. This season is about Cutie Mark magic, the magic of self. The question being: What makes you a good person and what can you bring to a friendship. As we learned from Princesses Luna, a Cutie Mark is outward resections, of who you are. “Our Town” was filled with ponies that were like Trouble Shoes, not sure what their Cute Marks were telling them. What I took away from this episode is to see both the good in others as well as in self. That we all have self-worth.

[@mega-bustershepard5537]

Anyone notice the sheriff's deputies were based on the characters from Blazing Saddles?

[@Arkus]

I found Trouble Shoes design interesting. Up till now the largest example of a male pony design has been Big Mac and other similar stallions. Now we got a design that can rival Celestia's size. I predict a whole bunch of new Fan characters using this new design.

[@Omentallic]

Everyone keeps bringing up that magic-ing the keys was pointless, but really judging by their height it would have been impossible for them to reach up there without magic. As for why they did it while the sheriff was still in there, I imagine that the magic-ing the keys was Sweetie Belle's idea, and Applebloom just ran off and did her idea to distract him at the same time. I was personally fine with it since it helped me get a better understanding of Sweetie Belle's current magic potential and it was kinda adorable to watch Scootaloo happily shake Sweetie Belle in appreciation of her talents. As for the episode itself, I found it enjoyable. I won't lie, it is the weakest season 5 episode, but I still liked it much better than a lot of other episodes, it may not have been memorable but it helped with developing the CMC a bit more in terms of cutiemarks and getting the proper height of a pony, so I'm fine with that. Also, to me it seemed like Sweetie Belle was very developed while the other two were like their season 1-2 versions. I didn't mind though, I mean Sweetie Belle is my favourite. XD

[@pixelmeth]

They say that the best way to learn something is to teach it to others, maybe if the CMC teach others about cutie marks, they will truly understand what they are all about?

[@MrMarinus18]

I actually felt this episode make a tremendous impression on me. Trouble shoes really had a negative cutie mark but it's shown that even with that you can succeed. A very wise lesson in that the answer isn't always straightforward but if you search hard enough you'll always find a way. Also that punishment really made me feel for the CMC. One thing that did suprise me was that the CMC searched for their cutie mark. I thought they had lost all enthusiasm for that by now since they barely mention it at all in season 4.

[@kaiserxblue]

What I liked on this episode was Applejack. she was participating since his cousin is injured, she had a sense of justice and a good guardian, she even disciplined the CMC for disobeying her and indirectly causing all the mess at the rodeo.

[@PeachyAnimecatIsawesome]

I agree with the statement that the plot was familiar. I could guess what was going to happen when the first mentioned the "outlaw"s name.

[@adamcheck4941]

I have a big problem here when someone said trobleshoes wrecked the steer pen because a steer is a castrated bull. The only reason people does that to a bull is to make the meat taste better when their destiny is to be they are killed and eaten. Since ponies are vegetarian making a steer makes no sense all they would be doing is taking away the only useful thing a bull can do (breed with cows) something they need to do to make milk. The only reason a pony would make a steer would be to make their lives miserable.

[@ytsejam58]

I pretty much felt the same as you did. I said on Tumblr that I have nothing bad to say about it but nothing good either. There are small little moments that I appreciate, like Sweetie Belle using her magic. And that "My friend just did something awesome" face Scootaloo makes. Although, true that luring the sheriff away makes that scene moot now. It was alright.

[@LuciannaDeCelio]

Could it be that the purpose of Sweetie Bell taking the keys was to keep the Sheriff from taking them on his way out?

[@Starwarsdude8221991]

I liked the atmosphere, the rain effects of the rain on apple jack and braburn were good touches. trouble shoes had a good design as well it's nice to see a pony that looks like he could in fact fit in with our world a nice change up from the technicolor ponies. other issues lack of communication is key once again if the adult stopped and listened for two seconds we would ruin the plot

[@swordschannel3709]

Did any one notice that that Braeburn is around a certain mare in any parts where ever he's in the background? (Dream episode)

[@MarissaOfUnderground]

I couldn't help but feel like the episode was a rehash of Bridle Gossip. Was it carried out better? A little. However, I have found myself asking "What was last week's episode? Tanks for the Memories? Oh wait, the CMC one...oh yeah." I kept forgetting about this episode. The reason I felt like it was a copy of Bridle Gossip was because of the townsponies suspecting a character to be of ill intent when they were not. Troubleshoes is just a clumsy pony and not an outlaw? Where have I seen THAT before?" "She's an evil enchantress and she does evil dances!..." There. I am however concerned we are going to be seeing rehashes of plots from earlier seasons. That isn't a good sign, it means they're running out of ideas. I hope this doesn't happen again, but sometimes what didn't work at first can work better the second time around. For example, the holiday issue of MLP centered around Sunset Shimmer carried out the plot of Ponyville Confidential much better than the original episode, in my opinion. Having the gossiper be a mystery and having the wrong person being suspected of the crime, leading it up to the person who was framed to solve it? A lot better. I had hopes back during Season 2 when the episode aired that it would be a mystery type, due to the previews. Sadly, it was an overdone plot I had seen countless times in other cartoons, and it did little to impress me or be different or unique from the other shows that used the same plot. I know lots of people loved that episode, but I am not one of them.

[@djjoe8899]

Well I found interesting about this episode that it apart of a general theme of episodes of season 5. Mainly cutie marks, how cutie marks can be interpreted different ways

[@BNuts]

So no winter episode. I knew it. Troubleshoes Clyde is an interesting character. His mistaken interpretation of his cutie mark reflects Apple Bloom's concerns from two episodes ago, only now the CMC are teaching him about the meaning behind his mark. In some ways, such as above, it seems like the CMC are moving forward, however their sneaking off reminds me of 'The Stare Master.' For reference, My fanfic starts during the second act of that episode. That is a _long_ time ago. Nevertheless, the CMC's willingness to look past Troubleshoes's reputation and see who he really is is impressive. If only they had been able to speak up to the adults -- they got into trouble anyway, so why not? It would have formed a better lesson than the jailbreak if the Crusaders and Troubleshoes worked together to clear up their misunderstandings directly. Then, with the fillies' encouragement, Troubleshoes participates in the rodeo as a clown. I also noticed that the same ponies who were judges during Troubleshoes's try-out were present at the Appleloosa (or is it 'Appleoosa' now?) Rodeo. Why did they not recognize Troubleshoes from back then, and maybe reveal to him that they thought he could perform as a rodeo clown, but he ran away so they never got to tell him. I think that would have been interesting, and it would have led to less contrivance than actually occurred. I would take notes for my version, but I'm pretty sure Gearhead will not be participating in this one, lacking any reason other than maybe being an additional escort for the CMC. But that would get in the way of their meeting with Troubleshoes, since he would be able to track them effectively -- especially if Snowbelle returns by then. I'm sure there are smoother ways to write this episode, and I promise to think about it some more.

[@FastLane46]

Pretty much the only things I did like were the CMC actually helping another pony understand their cutie mark and who they really are and the fact that Braeburn finally reappeared, but the latter is pretty much just trivial. Other than the first point and seeing Sweetie's magic progressing, I agree Doc, I can't really seem to remember much else in this episode. And I feel they made AJ slightly OOC. I believe she would have personally seen them to the first train back home of there was a dangerous outlaw stalking around Appleloosa instead of leaving them with Braeburn to go to the rodeo. Although it's pretty forgetful episode, to me it's not terrible. I'd call it a background noise episode.

[@Chromadraco]

I find it funny because I actually liked this episode more than the other episodes thus far. Maybe because I relate to Troubleshoes. I have never truly related to the main 6. So I have wanted to find a character I can like. I could elaborate more but I wont here.

[@SquidofBaconator]

Wow. Last episode, I didn't like it and everyone loved it. Now, I kind of like the episode, yet not many like it. Can't I just have the same opinion as someone else?!

[@lwes4]

***** no.. because that would be an echo chamber... and that leads down the path of evil.

[@SquidofBaconator]

lwes4 Maybe I want to be evil...

[@rayhagele]

***** I'm with you on this.

[@lwes4]

you don't need to be evil to like the episode. i like for what is and i acknowledge other have there own opinion. as long as you do that you good.

[@SquidofBaconator]

***** I know, another way this happened was with the last episode. Everyone loved it and I consider it bad and overrated.

[@justincarawan-carawanco.pu1639]

4:30 In case the sheriff thought to reach for them before leaving?

[@DJJ680]

I consider this episode Bridle Gossip done right. The person in question actually gave people reason to fear them and the twist was actually subtle. Not to mention the humor was fantastic. Another reason why Dave Polsky is my favorite writer on the show.

[@francinebabineau3133]

I for one loved the episode, I will admit that it really isn't that memorable, I still loved it. I could really relate to TroubleShoes not knowing what made him special. I, for the longest time, didn't know what I was good at even though I had been doing it all along. I had several points growing up where I would do what came naturally to me and I didn't think it was any good or anything to to be proud of, not knowing what I had been doing was actually hard for most people. It never came to me, even after my school days were over, I struggled trying to find something I was good at to get through life and grow as a person. One day I felt like I had to get something out, it almost hurt holding it in. I sat down and wrote, I kept on writing long into the night, I had no intentions of ever showing it to anyone, but I did in the end. I started with one person, who loved it, and I went from there. I am now working as a writer for a game company and I have a 5 part book deal in the works, I'm also working on several smaller projects for myself, with two small companies already waiting for it to be finished. Watching TroubleShoes learn what made him special, in the short span of the episode, was heart warming to me and really made me smile. It helped me remember my own struggles on trying to find myself.