"On Your Marks" Review

[@boyoftrick_9084]

So... Who allready Shipped Applebloom and Tendertapps?

[@acemeister1624]

Meeee!

[@cofagrigusfan24]

+Boyoftrick_90 i'm one of them

[@StopChangingMyNameYoutube1]

+Boyoftrick_90 Totally me, already planning out a ship fic.

[@katie5883]

+Boyoftrick_90 On board on the ship

[@Lupiterz]

yesss

[@cpcoultertweedles7216]

To me, this episode was almost like a first episode. Not in that you need to establish characters, but in that you have to redefine them. For the first time, the CMC have to figure out what they want to do with their time, and for the first time they realize that they don't have the same interests. They're still going to be friends, but this episode for me was about helping them to develop and grow as individuals, while showing that it won't change their friendship

[@professorsponge1554]

TenderTaps was a welcome addition to the male character list. nice to see they aren't helping yet another filly.

[@Ghilesian]

I loved how they ended up going back to their original interests; applebloom is learning to dance, sweetie Belle is making clothes and scootaloo ended up changing the backdrop in the show. Just like the talent show, now that they aren't focused on being perfect enough to get a cutie mark, they actually allow themselves to have fun and learn something they are interested in. They really have come full circle this episode.

[@lightning-bliss]

For once I disagree Doc, I actually want to go back and watch it again ^^ There were quite a few easter eggs that were pointed out for me by my other alicorn friend Pristine, such as with the art class and it presenting three different types of art work from modern to pop and they were represented by their fellow OCs, like Pony Picasso for instance. But those are easter eggs. What keeps me entertained is not just the moral, but a kind of view that I think we reviewers will have to face one day. When it does happen, what are we all going to do when MLP ends? What will be us brony reviewers purpose if we have no more episodes to review? It's been a question I have been asking myself frequently. I certiantly didn't like the idea that I may not get to collab with friends again, and that at some point, like with Apple Bloom, I would have to go off and do my own thing, or reviews on my own. But that's not a bad thing as Scootaloo and Sweetie Bell put it, we may not all do things together, and it can allow us other opprotunities to try new things for our channel. But still, that lingering feeling of what comes after this is still there. But the episode ended on a high note that as long as we are inspiring others, and even helping others before our own, things will work out. I would like to hope when MLP does end, we'll have plenty of other content to review on and still have fun with each other on other topics ^^ Ya that's why I like this episode.

[@DRWolf001]

+Lightning Bliss I hope you'll post some of these thoughts in a future video Lightning.

[@denisepepin1967]

Hi bliss

[@AidanRatnage]

+Lightning Bliss What's with the 2 sets of double up-chevrons?

[@LifeWulf]

+Aidan Ratnage What, you've never seen the "^_^" face without the mouth?

[@everfree4175]

+Lightning Bliss Agreed! :)

[@Necrikus]

Honestly, I liked how this episode was the show's way of setting the stage for future episodes with the CMC; addressing the changes that have happened since they got their marks, showing them try to move on to the next stage of their lives, and establish how stories with them will generally work now that their previous goals and main antagonists have been dealt with. While I was able to enjoy the episode, I think I was far more forgiving about it not being better because it is trying to set the new status quo for the three. Essentially, I think the episode might not be great, but it was still watchable and it did its job fairly well. Also, am I the only one that felt it was weird how closely Tendertaps looks like a male (earth pony) Scootaloo?

[@heatherkramer3139]

The premiere and the following two episodes of this season seem to be more there to establish or set-up future episodes and the new status quo. The premiere in the end had one primary purpose and one secondary purpose. First to make us like Starlight Glimmer as a new regular cast member. Something I think it succeeded in very well. Secondly it introduced Flurry Heart and set set-up the mystery of how she came to be born an alicorn and the potential season finale involving her. The Gift of Maud had a few purposes. First it gave us our first real look after 5 seasons of Rarity and Pinkie interacting together without the rest of the Mane 6. It also continued to develop the post dreams accomplished Rarity who seems more focused on the issues of her friends now and her business is growing rapidly. And it also set up a Pie tradition that can be reused in future episodes to give us more personal time with each Pie sister. This episode established the new normal for the CMC. It also gave us our first real deeper look into the character of Apple Bloom outside her quest for a cuttie mark and how personally important it is to her to have involvement with others. This episode gave us badly needed expansion of her interests and character as her character up till now had been more the driving force of the CMC's quest for cuttie marks and the need for that is now at an end. We also see a good level of maturity from Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo that wasn't as apparent before.

[@SquidofBaconator]

While not the most memorable episode, it still was pretty good, thanks to some decent humor, a nice song, and a good moral.

[@bucketslash11]

+SquidofBaconator agree, they did ask the most important question of them all, "now what?" and ended the episode on a plan on how they could help get the biggest surface area on the map when searching for ponies who needs help (spreading out) the fact that scootaloo and sweetie belle took a break from crusading to focus on things they want to do for fun is also nice to see the cameos are also nice to see but the most important cameo has to be diamond tiara and silver spoon being friendly towards someone else in the background

[@SquidofBaconator]

+bucketslash11 Yeah, I liked seeing D.T and S.S not being assholes for once. I guess character continuity from Crusaders of the Lost Mark?

[@XainRussell]

"Forgetable?" Are you kidding me Doc? This is what "Crusaders of the Lost Mark" SHOULD have been. Focussed on the CMC doing things on their own and learning what they like individually. CotLM was bogged down by too many songs and a lack luster Diamond Tiara redemption story, "On Your Marks" had the CMC realizing that just because they're friends does not mean that they have to be together all the time. And they shouldn't have to be! Everyone has their likes and dislikes and not even our closest friends are going to share every single like and dislike. I thought Tender Taps was a cool little dude and I want to see more of him and Apple Bloom together, because lord knows we need to see these characters in other social circles besides just the mane 6 or the CMC. This is the best CMC episode yet, and "forgetable" is the last word I would use to describe it.

[@RosieSievers]

This episode is a great follow up to Crusaders Of The Lost Mark, and the problem that the CMC, well mostly Applebloom faced was similar to Twilight's role as a Princess in Princess Twilight and Twilight's Kingdom Part 1. The comedy was good, the song was good and the moral was great. Doing your own thing can increase the chance of finding someone to help out. It gets a 8/10 from me ^^

[@gutsmasterson2488]

I completely agree with you

[@CrazyWhore116]

+Rosie Sievers (rigifan32) Agreed

[@SonicHeroX]

+Rosie Sievers (rigifan32) I also agree

[@AlbanAwan]

I've heard it said elsewhere and I agree. The CMC episodes have got to move beyond Apple Bloom and focus on the other two more.

[@Changeling9000]

Agreed

[@akinmytua4680]

that's true. though she seemed the most dependent on her friends. it makes sense that she would be the one with this conflict.

[@Rixec2]

+AlbanAwan Apple Bloom is like the Twilight of the CMC, so of course she's gonna get some more focus a bit. We started with her as we went into the formation of the Crusaders, and while all of them are equal, Apple Bloom is more like the unofficial leader of the group, so she gets some more focus. And for an episode like this, the focus on her was important as back when the CMC first got together, we saw Apple Bloom trying to hold onto her friends so she wouldn't be alone in not having a cutie mark, but then ended up alone once that happened. She was afraid to be alone which is why she formed such a close bond with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Their group was tight-knit throughout the show. But now, in this episode, we get to see just how much she relied on others to help form her identity and that she had to learn who she was when alone and still enjoy that. Now that that has happened, we can focus more on each of the Crusaders going forward - unless the writers don't think of anything to do. Well, I'm hoping for the best and I'm sure we'll see more focus on each of the Crusaders going forward.

[@2b-coeur]

+AlbanAwan Yeah, definitely! I'd love a Sweetie Belle episode.

[@akinmytua4680]

I would love rarity or apple jack to use their connections to let sweetie Belle tour with coloritura (no idea how spell that) or... that Beyonce pony (whose name I forget).

[@GeminiGold27lightning]

Honestly the only reason I feel matters on why they couldn't use the map is the fact that they're kids. They aren't ready to travel ALL over the place at a moment's notice. Maybe when they're older sure, but for now, they have to stay home where they can't miss school and such.

[@xonxt]

Concerning AppleBloom singing, the song followed the rules of a musical, i.e. she doesn't actually sing but just thinks about it in her head, which is presented to us, the viewer, in the form of a song. As opposed to the joke of SweetieBelle trying to teach them to *actually* sing and them not being really good at it. And yay, the head-canon of Bulk Biceps being a gym-trainer is now canon!

[@7Seraphem7]

+xonxt ^This^ Unless it's made very clear otherwise, it's best to treat all musical numbers as being non-deigetic. They are not what is literally happening, just a way to better convey ideas, emotions, information etc... to the viewer.

[@Doughboy123x]

This is not the kind of episode you were looking for. I liked it.

[@JDueler11]

Even though it wasn't the best of episodes, it is a good way to kick-start the Crusaders new lives beyond cutie marks. You're not gonna get it right the first time.

[@1969ubik]

I liked this episode. After Lost Mark I think this is what was needed, a step back. In Lost Mark, it made a grand deal about the CMC getting their cutie marks and it was deserving of that, but it lead to the expectation that their lives are on some grand journey. Here it shows it in a far more realistic setting, that just because you have your mark doesn't mean life is all figured out and that normal stuff doesn't happen. Basically it takes the whole "destiny" thing and then goes on to say that that isn't the end all be all of a character or life, that there are other things out there then just what you're supposedly "destined" for, that life isn't always epic, that the small personal moments are fine and good and that life goes on unabated. Also Brash yourself: Shipping is coming!

[@RedCordPlayer]

the episode was pretty good and humorous at some parts but overall, the episode was kinda forgettable. I like the moral and would like to see the cmc take on lessons on their own.

[@HungrySohma]

As a college student, I found a lot to relate with this episode. I felt so bad for the CMC being stuck at first, and then felt even worse for Applebloom feeling left behind. I found that this episode kept making me stop and think, huh, maybe I think too much but I loved it w

[@DeathlyPumpkin]

Now I wish that the dance routine was a parody or homage to Napoleon Dynamite. Lol

[@ScottJoC]

It was a cute episode, wasn't that funny but it was adorable

[@joinmarch76]

Me, I think this is just a case of "Too Soon Renewal Syndrome". It's when a cartoon's next season begins far too early for its own good, leaving what good ideas they had either far behind or too far ahead to get to them without running them thin. Its most notable victim was Ed Edd n Eddy when they were renewed for Season 5 back in the mid 2000's. I suspect we'll be getting more worthwhile episodes in due time. After all, the season's just begun, and it's only fair we get a few simpler episodes to compensate for the massive leaps that we got in Season 5. Also, in spite of this...admittedly lackluster episode, it *does* give us some new story potential for the CMC; as with them separating to pursue their duties elsewhere, there'll likely be more development down the road.

[@EditDeath]

You make several valid points, Doc. At the same time, though, I'm glad this episode was there. One thing I've noticed about each of the episodes so far this season is how they set things up for future episodes. While the changeling in the background of the premiere was out of left field, the rest of the overarching story is being set up naturally. With Maud's episode, we learned that there will likely be Rarity in Manehattan episodes, as well as future Pie sister meetups. With this one, we're finally seeing the CMC doing their own thing. With the exception of Applebloom (which, come to think of it, makes this episode a bit ironic) we haven't really seen them doing things without at least one of the others. Now, there is a promise of CMC solo episodes. This will allow them all to grow into better characters. Besides, it ups the chance of us learning about Scootaloo's life outside crusading and Rainbow Dash worship.

[@gutsmasterson2488]

I Actually quite loved to this episode. It had a lot of great comedy, an amazing moral, believable characters and a great follow-up to Crusaders of the Lost Mark, Plus it had amazing cameos (especially from my favorite characters of Pound and Pumpkin Cake being super adorable)

[@jlight7446]

May i say dr wolf, you sound really confident. I have watched & listened your past videos. Your confidence has grown and more detail has been put into your videos. Remember to take a break. Your lady, your health, and your life first before you start recording. Cheers doc :)

[@DRWolf001]

+J Lightway Thank you kindly for the encouraging words J.

[@SuperWorldJumper]

+DRWolf001 Dr. Wolf, I want to tell you that I really enjoy your reviews and appreciate that they come out so quickly after the episode airs. I do not know how often you read comments, but I would like to suggest something to you that you might like. There is a series on KZbin called "Friendship is for Adults" by the Kanterlor who create their own take on the characters to tell they're own story. While they're episodes are nice, it is their audio plays where they really shine. You should give them a look and see if you like them. Perhaps you could even collaborate with them on a future project. I'm sure a psychoanalyst like you would simply have a hay day with the characters and relationships they've created. Thanks for listening if you do read this. You are awesome.

[@pyromainia4710]

+DRWolf001 I agree with him doc. Also I completely agree with your opinions on this episode. This is exactly how I felt while watching it, even down to Bulk Buyseps. Good job.

[@renaxakai3]

Honestly, the moral I got from this was that friends move on, but that doesn't mean you can't still be friends. Which hit close to home because once my high school years ended, all but one of my friends moved away/got married and moved away. So, there may be two morals to this story. I usually don't like CMC episodes, but for some reason, this one hit close to home.

[@richardwarner4585]

It's a male Scootaloo!

[@lilmisschrystyle3140]

without the wings!

[@Wubzod]

...okay, uhmm... I didn't get your arguments this time. For me it is my 3rd favorite CMC episode ever. And I can't imagine how anyone could write a better story for the first episode about the CMCs with their cutie marks. I think it's perfekt how they question themselves about what to do now and how Applebloom overreacted to splitt up for oncr and she thouth it would be forever and so on. Sure this episode wasn't as funny as the one last week or had that many great faces but it wasn't worse because of that. But I really MUST agree to that music joke. It really is beyond any logic!

[@timemachinemaker]

It's because the resolution to their problem seems like the most natural step to take. I mean, say this episode didn't happen, but instead one of the CMC got to solve a cutie mark problem on their own, and that's the episode we get. I think that most fans would welcome the change almost immediately. But, because this episode exists, I think that the people were expecting a different solution to the problem instead of what seems like the most obvious next step. It seems like a "well duh" moment for the CMC, and that's what makes it forgettable. I am happy that they're taking these characters in this direction though, and I can't wait to see what new stories they're going to come up with.

[@ToeIn2194]

I loved this episode because I went through something so similar and learned the same lesson where I almost missed out on helping someone who really needed me so to me this episode is really memorable and emotional.

[@playfulpippapony]

On the plus side we got to see more male characters playing an important role in the story.

[@cellyzs]

So I usually agree with everything you say to some extent in every review usually, but this one is probably my least favorite review. First thing that kinda rubbed me the wrong way was "The Crusaders using the Cutie Map." That would be totally dumb. The mane 6 used the map because they were bonded to it by the tree of harmony, elements of harmony, etc. That's why it works with them it would not work with the CMC in the same way because they aren't the ponies that are connected to the tree. That sounded like an awful fanfic idea XD Second thing was you that the conflict from Filli Vanilli and yea it was, but it was not solved in the same way. Fluttershy could not even show her face in front of an audience (but Hearth's Warming Eve contradicts that just like in other episodes but whatever that's beside the point) and she did not look at singing as something as a aspiration for her but more as something she just loves doing and she got good at it where this pony dancing is his aspiration and he joined a dance class and he actually went out on stage. Also Fluttershy's problem was solved by putting her in front of an audience she is comfortable singing for and helping her slowly overcome her stage fright and this pony's problem was solved by Applebloom encouraging him by basically saying "Hey you're great there's ponies out there (using herself as an example) who nowhere as great as you are and if they're brave enough to perform in front of an audience then you should be able to too!" and his fear is overcome on the spot. Third I think that this episode was trying to show that even though you and your friends do not do everything together it does not mean you guys are going to drift apart and really emphasizing the feeling of loneliness because your friends mean everything to you. Really targeting Independent struggles like doing something and not to be good at it but to have fun. If Apple Bloom already was confident in her ability to be independent then she never would have worried in the first place and just tried to have fun and later meet this pony and think hey let me get with my friends and help this pony out after I was able to figure out that he was in a pickle. But because she already wasn't use to having fun and trying new things without her friends this episode was meant to convey that. I definitely this episode was great and definitely conveyed the issue of not feeling you and your friends will be able to remain friends because you all have different interests and feeling lonely in that journey of getting independence and Apple Bloom's emotion was spot on with the song. Great song, great features. Only thing I will say is that there were not many comedic one-liners, but I was laughing throughout the episode for other reasons. Overall rate this episode a 8/10.

[@RubberyCat]

...three ways to fail? It is missing at least 3 ways: Never Ever complain, Always blame yourself, and Be grateful for EVERYTHING (including sickness, losing dear ones, and mobbing).

[@vicentemorales2533]

I actually liked it a lot

[@snazzyfly4269]

After making friends and being friends for them so long it can be hard to branch out on your own especially after doing things with them all the time, which is why I can appreciate having a good moral encouraging the idea that sometimes your friends don't want to do the same things you want to do or occasionally want time to themselves but it doesn't mean life is over or you'll never see them again, it just means you can take the time to grow and learn about who you are.

[@BioniclesaurKing4t2]

Not knowing what to do next in one's life resonates drastically with me as I'm nearing the end of college with the job vs. grad school crossroad right around the corner that needs to be prepared for starting right around yesterday, at the same time signaling the end of my relatively stable college life situation of the past few years which I have grown fond of.

[@texas9326]

One thing that I noticed was that this was the first time in the series that the Mane 6 did not appear in an episode. Granted Rarity is mentioned, but that doesn't really count as an appearance in an episode. Every other episode had at least one of the Mane 6 in an episode at one point with a line of dialogue.

[@dandelion_fritters]

There is something to be said about this episode that I'm not sure if anyone else picked up on. You can still have your own group of friends while still having individual interests. Unfortunately, I've run into a lot of people and cliques that if you don't like or do everything they do, then you have no part with said group. It's like a sub-story of the 'Keep Discord ' episode, when I think about it.

[@liborkundrat185]

2:57 I'm actually interested how that would sound. Musicians, go!

[@akinmytua4680]

that looked way more complicated than the three notes she hummed, that's for sure.

[@2b-coeur]

+Autymn Maas Yeah XD. I think they were trying to have a theme where the pony trying to show the others their favorite activity explains it using three words. "Stomp, kick, roll," "do, re, mi," and "dash, drop, drip" or whatever Apple Bloom said about her potion.

[@akinmytua4680]

Yeah.

[@makito106]

I called Tander Taps male scootaloo

[@Tesseradical17]

+Makito Bredy Dat's wacist!

[@CrazyWhore116]

+Makito Bredy Same

[@makito106]

Tesseradical17 sorry

[@Tesseradical17]

Makito Bredy I was just being silly. :P

[@MoonShadowWolfe]

+Makito Bredy I am honestly curious about him; at first it was just a joke, but now I really do suspect that he's her brother. It's not like we know thing one about anypony related to her; it's just as likely as not.

[@Azelf1011]

I agree that the episode didn't have much to offer except for the pretty song that Applebloom sung and a few cameos like Bulk Biceps and Treehugger, but the one thing that stood out for me in this episode was Applebloom. I'm going to be honest that Applebloom is my least favorite of the CMC, probably because every episode she starred in for 5 seasons straight primarily dealt with her trying to find her cutie mark, and not really explore much of anything else in her character. I say this because Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle share the same thing, but with episodes like Sisterhooves Social and Flight To The Finish, we learned more about them fillies and more on their personalities other than wanting to grow up, like Scootoloo wanting to impress Rainbow Dash who is her idol while also wanting to fly someday, or Sweetie Belle wanting to make a better impression on her older sister Rarity, while having to deal with the problems with siblings. But Applebloom doesn't really have that though, since none of her episodes went in detail with other talents or traits that she may have. In here though, the writers acknowledge that Applebloom hasn't shown many talents in other hobbies and gave her a chance to try out something new for a change which is dancing. I like that they have given a bit more to her character. :)

[@lisabilby2006]

hey, could you help me with my timberwolf oc look? he has a horn covered with leafs and uses it for magic and also to make green disposable weapons.

[@AllistorRichards]

This story was a great follow up to the Lost Mark, not only was it an episode filled with character development for the CMC in show that taught a great deal of morals ranging from "you don't need the attention or gratification from others to be satisfied with your own works," to "you can use your skills, even if they aren't that great at first, to work toward your life's goals and you can be fine." Not only was that a HUGE set of morals to teach, but they did it in a way that felt nice and natural. Hell, my only problem with this episode is that there's an obvious plothole in AppleBloom's song in that Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon are actually GOOD friends now as well and would obviously be there to help her in the situations offered, but if they'd not had that plothole not only would we not have the very nice and subtle reference to footloose with Tendertaps (because let's face it, that mane style and that getup along with him being a great dancer kinda makes him look like the main character from that movie,) who was an endearing and interesting new friend for AB that I hope fans stick too so much that we see him more often, but also gave us a fun and silly way for the Crusader's to learn that they can bring all their unique hobbies that they love together to reach their goals, no matter how skilled they are with them!

[@phoenixamaku5551]

To Dr. Wolf: Well for thing i found it intesting and exciting to see them focus on Applebloom and its been a while since we've seen one based off since 4 and 5 relating to Cutie marks along with her sister. And it is nice to see a change of pace with this season and found it quite interesting how they focused on Bloom instead of Scootaloo and sweeite bell. So hopefully their will be a backstory of their family coming up soon!

[@NelsonDemifur]

I was actually expecting this to happen. They couldn't go any higher so an answer to "What will they do now?" and "How would they help others?" is welcome to me. This actually sets up other story lines that can be thought of

[@WeirdTale]

So....... No one is going to comment on the fact that Treehuger is modeling for Pablo Picaso, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol? The bog three of Modern Art? Anyone? All right then..... I'll just sit here.

[@l.jturner6617]

I just waiting for the ten tons of shipping that will inevitably be all over Equestria Daily...

[@chilto01]

this episode just cements that the cmc is going to become a spinoff series. it gives me the feeling of the staff trying to see if they can get a basic idea of how a cmc show would work and if people would watch it.

[@Saphira3441]

We have differnt feeling about the start XD i was hoping i would be an ep about the CMC and Bulk so he got more charter development, even if hes finds thinking a bit hard.. and i can relate to the song, as someone who thought she knew what she wanted to do and then find out that it doesnt really work for her, the song i really enjoyed as i havent got a clue what iam to do now -.- so that song pretty much spoke to me a lot.

[@RubberyCat]

+Saphira3441 *character

[@forthewrestlinggirlypops]

Anybody else remembered "Bloom and Gloom" this episode when the C.M.C. went their separate ways?

[@CheekuP]

i loved this episode. It's like when you spend a lot of time on a book or tv show and finally finish it, then you suddenly don't know what to do anymore, cuz reading/watching this has been all you've done for so long. the CMC had developed a lifestyle in trying out new things all the time in order to get their cutie mark, and suddenly there's really not much of a point to try everything anymore. So even if it didn't have that much "wow-factor" i really liked it because it showed how they would be setteling with a new lifestyle with their cutiemarks. it was a nice transition.

[@finnanima2413]

I think this episode needed to be a lot less epic than Crusaders of the Lost Mark. That was a climax that covered so much development for the characters and implied a new epic journey. With this one instead being about more development and slice of life content, realism was brought back into the Crusaders’ journey. Usually events are just epic after being made to feel that way. Also, let’s not forget the CMC are a peg down from the Mane 6. The Mane 6 got the Elements, an alicorn, a Castle, a magic map and a 7th member at this point. And the CMC is starting to catch up from behind again!

[@aroddo2953]

Well, I enjoyed the episode thoroughly. The short Bulk Biceps interlude actually launched his possible career as a fitness trainer and expanded his vocabulary immensely (YEAH). Apple Bloom trying out new hobbies for herself was amusing in itself and actually tossed in subtle character development for several background ponies, as well as introducing tons of new ones - something which has the brony community usually lapping it up like parched dogs. - Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon made a new friend? - Treehugger poses for art? - Leonardo DaVince pony? Andy Warhol pony? Pablo Picasso Pony? Salvadore Dali pony? - Fan favorite Berry Punch actually working? - Zecora continuing Twilight's alchemy lessons for Apple Bloom? Also, we get the dance instructor who seems too detailed for a mere throwaway pony, along with new animations of dancing ponies (and not whatever Twilight was doing). We get a new young colt with a speaking role, who is placed as a possible love interest for Apple Bloom (angry fan reactions pending). There was actually lots of stuff to be found in this episode in terms of detailing the world, which made me kinda surprised that DRWolf is dismissing all this as "easter-eggs" and "forgettable". I mean, what does DRWolf want from a freaking CMC episode to make him happy? The Return of Tirek? He couldn't even appreciate the adorable intro with the CMC admiring their own flanks! I think he got too spoiled for his own good. :)

[@mingchen7704]

does anyone else ship Tender tap and apple bloom? :P

[@ErikButterworth]

I relatively enjoyed the episode myself, Dr. Wolf. It was a nice way to see how the Crusaders tried to find other interests while maintaining their new mission to help ponies in need with finding their true talent and cutie marks as well. I'm sure there will be another Crusaders episode later this season that could help rebuild some of the damage or lackluster that this episode carried in your eyes, but we'll have to wait a few months to know for sure since there's nothing new yet to go on as of right now on TV Tropes or Equestria Daily.

[@RaptorRed]

i can relate to applebloom's conflict here. i like to hangout with my friends too, but when they want to do something on their own or want me to leave them alone i tend to get down and unsure what to do next. then i sulk for a while and try to stay away from others cause i don't want to bother them.

[@Nogginlogger]

Who else like that music during the play and outro?

[@Blackbird26155]

Tender Taps! Well crap I got his name wrong in my video! But then again they only gave his name in the credits so I think it can be forgiven. I'm surprised you even remembered it Dr. Wolf. Also, not a very emotional episode?! Is your heart still stone from that Cockatrice invasion man?! Er, wolf! Applebloom's song was almost heart wrenching! Although that could be because it hit VERY close to home for me. So I think we just both got something different out of it. Personally though I think this is the perfect follow up to "Crusaders of the Lost Mark" as it DOES show they're not quite sure what to do now that they have their Cutie Marks. It's a pretty good reflection on wanting something for so long and then wondering what you do after you get it. And I like that they're exploring things as individuals as well as a group. That way they can grow in both respects.

[@alengm]

I loved this episode. Cmc not knowing what to do, wondering what do to next was very relatable.

[@MoonbeamPony]

I honestly found the episode very memorable, but I think that's because it hit close to home for me. I, like the CMC, am in a very transitional stage of my life right now, and one of AB's lines in particular resonated with me SO HARD. "Thanks, but ... without my friends, I don't think I'll ever feel again." It seems silly for AB to say it, but for those of us who have friends who moved away for college and we haven't seen them in years ... it hurts.

[@silverdragonwolf1]

We also learned some other little tidbits about Apple Bloom personally, like the fact that she's allergic bees. That little note had me wondering, if Apple Bloom is allergic to bees, which are a necessary part of apple production do to their being one of the creatures that pollinate the apple blossoms, what does that mean for her ability to help out on the farm?

[@BlackHeartKitti2]

I liked this episode because it was nice and calm. It talks about even though you have friends you don't need to hang around them and do everything together. It was very sweet.

[@dexterthoma867]

I can tell he's going to be lovely we might be seeing him again

[@drathick9390]

I can relate to this episode a bit. I was a bit shy and nervous when first going on stage. But i soon learned to put aside what others would think of me. It's in short my way how to stay focused.

[@thevoidtvft.shadowcorn8788]

The first time I disagree with you. And it feels strange. I actually like this episode, especially the beginning, and up to know it's my second favorite CMC-episode of the show.

[@cpt_micky]

This episode dove into apple blooms need for social interaction to avoid anxiety, adding another layer to her extroversion that I think really fits. It might not be the main moral, but it's something I enjoyed seeing, since most of the time, it's the shy characters who have social problems, but in reverse. So this episode made apple bloom more relatable to me.

[@ericday637]

I actually found the episode very emotional and relatable, the song brought me to tears, and I plan to listen to it often in the future.

[@mlprocks101crystalennote2]

I love this epasode.

[@changelingkingcocoon5029]

Yeah, one of the things I took notice of was Apple Bloom singing right after the scene involving Sweetie Belle teaching them to sing.

[@kelliecarver479]

I was VERY happy that they address the "What do we do now?" question that's been present since the C.M.C got they're cutie marks, and I will say that I can understand where Apple Bloom was coming from. I mean, no one wants to split from they're friends, especially if you've been doing so many things together as a team. It's a really hard and daunting thing to comfront, especially as a kid.

[@Wiiguy1606]

I like how the episode show the CMC don't have to ALWAYS do things together. It's okay to do some things on your own. Scootaloo went to do bungee-jumping and Sweetie Belle learned (not excellent, but okay) crocheting. Don't forget that there have been episodes that focus on one Crusader instead of all three of them. ex.: "Sleepless in Ponyville" for Scootaloo, "For whom the Sweetie Belle Tolls" for, well, Sweetie Belle (heh) and "Brotherhooves Social" for Apple Bloom. For me, the moral I saw in this episode is "best friends don't have to do everything together. It's totally fine to do their own thing every once in a while."

[@PandaJohn71]

I, like +Lightning Bliss, found this episode entertaining and rewatchable. I like the exploration of the CMC developing separate tastes in activity and an overlooked aspect of the fact that could bring more ponies into their own personal circles, like in Apple Blooms' case, Tender Tap. I know I'm late to the party with my comment but I felt like giving my two cents on the episode after I saw your review...I just have a huge back-log of videos that I kept/keep adding to my watch later and yet also have life to keep me from diminishing the list quickly...and other activities that demand my attention and at times my laptop. lol

[@cutie48371]

while not really memorable in a big way I like the subtle lessons it taught. that you can have an identity outside of your group of friends and you don't have to be great at something to enjoy it

[@AModNamedMel]

The fact that the episode is meh is kinda genius as well. When some big change happens in your life, you expect everything else to be just as big and grand as before, but in reality, not every day will have a big conflict, or some live-changing event. I kinda like that lesson

[@callmeJackUK]

The Andy Warhol Pony tho XD

[@ZonagonsBlackKnight]

For me, this was meant to be a door-opener for future episodes that will likely be more compelling as a story.

[@RavemastaJ]

I liked this episode a lot; The theme was less about cutie marks, and more about friendship in general. It hit home for me because I've moved away from my friends, and now that we aren't hanging out anymore, it can sometimes feel like...we _aren't_ friends. But, that's not true! We've been through some good times together, and even if we part ways to do what we like, we can still be friends. On another note: You can dance if you want to. You can leave your friends behind...

[@jynxfurta9158]

I thought the episode was interesting because it helped me to understand extroverts a bit better, since I am an introvert myself. It was really interesting to see a character who relies on external stimuli and who has focused her interests on the shared interests of her friends and how she struggled to find something that she could do by herself.

[@1God1Fury]

The story of moving out. When you and your friends lost common interest. And each of you going seperate ways. Or maybe it because some life issues, job, family and you have no time to hang around together. This is a sad, especially when you look back and see how much things you and your friend done together. You feel left alone I will rate as *pretty good* episode

[@tyleradam4836]

I enjoy every episode I see of the CMC. Though it doesn't hold a candle to Flight to the Finish, which exclusively focused on a real obstacle and delivered it in such a way that was clear, had amazing character development, and made me understand what it was like to have something hold you back. Sometimes, your weakness can be your greatest strength. It also made me love Scootaloo as a character because of what she has to struggle with.

[@80MWH]

I gave it a B- on my blog. The biggest issue I have is that it feels like the story is a little aloof at times trying to figure out what its story is. Maybe this was Polsky trying to make the story reflect the CMC's trying to figure out who they were now, but it just came off feeling as disjointed as The Crystalling. I think it reminds me a little of 'Bloom and Gloom,' another ok episode, that I haven't really watched in a long time. I was actually a little more interested in the Tender Taps subplot, and maybe if it had been more focused on, it could have been more emotional.

[@pearliceberg5779]

I certainly will be re-watching this one. It gives a nice set up for future cmc episodes. Im hoping for some focusing just on one cmc and how they help a pony during there day. And i hope the new character returns too.

[@missedthebandwagon976]

I kept thinking Tender was Scootaloo's lost brother.

[@UTubeSponge5601]

It was nice to see Zecora again, and newly designed version of her home; but when will be the time an episode is focused on her?!

[@Grumpy_Hedgehog97]

I've got this idea where one of the future seasons should take a skip in time and shift in character focus. Where the CMC and their classmates are aged up and they become the main characters while the Mane 6 become secondary characters, that means there can be more story opportunities and the CMC can even be added to the map since they'll be old enough to explore Equestria. The Mane 6 can still be there and have their own episodes, they just won't be the main focus anymore, there's only so much you can do with the characters after all.

[@swtstprfctn]

I enjoyed that this episode touched upon the lull that happens after a big accomplishment where you may not know what to do next... very nice to also see the CMC pursue interests on their own as well. Maybe not the most memorable episode, but I think appropriate for post cutie mark achievement. it may not have been believable if they did too much too early!

[@juliabeewastaken]

I love the episode. It was more focused on what's next for the CMC and how they will spend their lives. Especially Apple Bloom and her singing, it may be a sad song but it has a great melody. Also, in both Season 5 and 6, their 4th episodes are more focused on Apple Bloom than the other crusaders.

[@evenprime]

I like How Bulk Biceps introduced the Problem of "what to do when you've lifted all weights" which later got almost directly quoted as "what to do when you've solved all CM Problems".

[@MLPDethDealr32]

I dont know about you though, but i loved the openning part where Sweetie Belle looked so ADORABLE IN THAT Square dancing outfit.

[@EstivalEquinox]

I dunno Doc. For me personally this episode has been the most enjoyable and relatable one I've watched so far this season. The idea of wanting to be with your friends, but also needing to take time to pursue yourself as an individual , and as Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo did later, take a moment to appreciate what they did, even though it was different, felt great. And I also was surprised that Applebloom was able to be rationalized out. It was much appreciated to me. I even liked the idea of them pointing out sometimes your grief causes you to ignore what others need, but try to go back and really appreciate, and even delight in their own positivity. It felt like... like lots of my life lessons really. I guess I approach things from a very forgive me if this sounds a bit cliche given the show's theme, harmony and learning to improve relationships by any means. And I guess I can relate to hating being alone, but also needing to be alone too... and wanting to really delight in my friends to the fullest, but sometimes I can't always because we're so different too. I guess the point is this felt really emotionally in depth to me. So yeah...

[@mrchaos-mlp]

I should have done a review like yours... I'm a loser

[@LanceTheAutobot]

Might want to work on your confidence there Mr chaos you need to do you not be someone els SO in other words your not a loser you just have not found your own groove yet

[@kchan4u]

I like it because it shows the other CMC episodes might end up branching out much like this one did I mean I'd love to see Scootaloo or even Sweetie Belle cutie mark problems and see how they fix it. not to mention shippers will now be making fan art of Apple Bloom and Tender Taps. which is welcomed all around.

[@MarelorMoon]

I think it was a nice way to show the upcoming struggle and way of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. We nearly always saw them as a whole, cause they did everything together, like in "Show Stoppers", "Ponyville Confidential" and others. It was hard to imagine them with own ideas and own dreams, cause they were focused so much on their crusade. And in my opinion, they solved the problem really well. The Animation was fantastic, it has really improved in the 5 years, the cameos with Bulke Biceps (especially the struggles with his own cutie mark), Treehugger and the nice Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon in the background were entertaining and the song was touching. I hope they focus more on Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle in the future, and not too much on Apple Bloom, but it was ok for this episode. What really annoys me is the lack of the mane 6. Half of them was only there at the Premier to complete them and had little to do with the plot itself, we only saw two of them in "The Gift of Maud Pie" and nobody of them in this episode, not even Twilight even if she taught Apple Bloom the potion-making. It's nice to see all those background characters and cameos, but I really would like to see their storys too and if they will still use the map in the season or how they will spread friendship across Equestria.

[@BradShadowDog]

Im wondering something. Did this episode not have a single mane character in it. Cause if yes, then thats a first.

[@AtarahDerek]

It is a first. I think they did that in order to give the impression that this episode follows the CMC in their first year of having cutie marks. There is nothing in this episode to establish that it takes place after the birth of Flurry Heart, so it probably takes place before then.

[@personalgoogleaccount9694]

Something I hope to see explored is the fact that ponies aren't the only type of people the CMCs could attempt to help find their talents. I'm sure the trio will be given the opportunity to travel the country (or even the World) at some point, and are bound to run into non-ponies struggling with the same issue they once were. It would be a plus if those individuals were older than them. I've actually been wanting to see the CMCs assist an adult who hadn't received their mark (the moral would have been to show that one doesn't need to rush to discover their talent); I thought this was going to happen when Bulk appeared... then I remembered he already had a cutie mark. An episode featuring a blank-flank adult is something that would be better done by itself, but my assumption with Bulk was something that still got my hopes up for a short time.

[@RayKaiLover]

Oh, his name is Tendertapps? I didn't catch his name in episode so I was going to call him Tap Dancer.

[@GoldenLatias6]

I think the idea of this episode is that we shouldn't have high expectations.... I know... I set my expectations too high in New Orleans... It wasn't as fun as I thought it would be, but I did have some good moments, like seeing the Mardi Gras World, the Aquarium, and getting delicious ice cream.

[@doublequilI]

It's an obvious growing pains episode; it's more a pre-teen theme, if you think about it, and there is only so much you can do with that plot line. Even so, I really think that painful transition process was a needed connector in their development. Not having a growing pains episode would just make us feel.... "wow, that was fast" if they had a blow-out "we know everything about what we're supposed to do" episode down the line. They are going through the awkward stage, and so although it may be a tad slow for adult audience is very important for the younger crowd who are at the stage and can relate (or are going through it themselves). It's a kid show, after all.... and growing older isn't always easy.

[@akinmytua4680]

I also liked that they made them stop and think about it. maybe they will travel equestria when they get older.

[@mechasaurus]

This episode really brings out Applebloom's character; not only did it remind us of her potion brewing interests, but also her discomfort about being isolated. It really appeals to her Cutie Mark's Triple Meaning.

[@CilanSteele]

I KNEW I wasn't the only one that forgot Tender Taps' name

[@outtagoodnamesdangit]

Very nice review, Doc. I was a bit more satisfied by the episode than you seemed to be, but the criticism seems fair anyway. And that "Canned Heat" bit at the end was great. :)

[@BGBTech]

I think the way this episode was, was sort of the point. essentially, their previous main plot arc has concluded, so it makes some sense that they have a "what now?" episode to start setting up for their next arc. OTOH, I had sort of thought "Hanging with Zecora" was already established as "a thing Apple Bloom" does. I guess an alternate progression of events could have been had Tender Taps been encountered in the woods as she was leaving from Zecora's place after him having run off from a performance, possibly because Apple Bloom was "just not feeling it" while working on potions, with her still initially overlooking him because of being unhappy about her friends, then later helping him out as before. but, it works.