"The Cutie Map" Review

[@Farmerjohn1100]

thank you DRWolf001 for being a brony it helped me realize that there's nothing to be afraid of being a brony

[@DRWolf001]

ty flash Glad to be of service.

[@Tall_Order]

Finally someone came to the same conclusion as I have regarding the = sign being a nullify / detriment mark. Most reviewers I've seen so far think applejack lost her countryisms because she lost her cutie mark, when in actuality the = sign is whats doing it. Notice how it flashes when the main six try to be themselves? And how they're instantly nullified of their personality when it happens? The symbol is a form of control.

[@CybeargPlays]

***** For how many analysts there are in the community, this show for children goes far, far over many fan's heads. It's kind of frustrating at times.

[@Oban2006]

I agree, finally someone said it was the equal sign. Leave it to Dr.wolf to be the one who sees it.

[@Rognik]

***** It was definitely funny to watch Pinkie getting her joy suppressed, until her laughter comment coming out as a complete deadpan. I hadn't realized other analysts hadn't noticed the equal sign mark (which was more a replacement mark than actively added) didn't realize that it forced the equality on people, removing not only talents but any real differenting personality traits.

[@Oban2006]

***** Eh, more like a magic curse mark.

[@Oban2006]

***** A lot of people say that in the fandom to the point where they make things up and ignore the facts on how cutie marks are so important to the ponys, we just got to face this as a fandom cutie marks define the ponys to the point where as we saw with out them they are "just not the real them" We all just need to chill and accept it.

[@RosieSievers]

Starlight Glimmer is my new favourite female villain on top of Queen Chrysalis, I liked the way she used her charms and ideals to gain control, and the new characters Double Diamond, Sugar Belle, Party Favor and Night Glider were an excellent addition to the MLP cast and the Cutie Map itself, Im so interested to see what new lands out heroes are going to visit.

[@TsuriaDragon]

Maybe starlight is queen chrysalis :) lol

[@discorddraconequus5777]

Rosie Sievers She reminds me more of Diamond Tiara. Also (takes out Bucket) Here you Go! (Throws Chocolate Milk) He He.

[@honeytonguemamao6816]

Rosie Sievers Same here.

[@AdamDraconaQuest]

Rosie Sievers Yeah. I also enjoyed the newcomers. Sugar Belle was my favorite. (voiced by Rebecca Shoichet, be the way) I really hope they make a comeback later in the season.

[@TsuriaDragon]

Night Glider I love

[@bluethunder250]

Nice review. What really intrigued me was what you said in regards to Starlight Glimmer's ability to take away cutie marks. That got me thinking for a potential story. What if, when Starlight does return, she wants to have all the cutie mark for herself to turn her into some kind of super pony? What if she applied a number of cutie marks to herself and becomes even more powerful than even Celestia and Luna?

[@SobiTheRobot]

One thing I noticed about the Cutie Un-Marking was that the Equals Sign didn't appear until _after_ the original Cutie Mark was placed in the vault. Starlight Glimmer _can_ remove Cutie Marks, but I think it was the vault that _replaced_ them. The "Staff of Sameness" was a red herring, but where in the world did that _vault_ come from? Did Starlight build it? Was it just _there?_ What kind of maniac other than Starlight would build something like that?

[@Torlius]

My guess is it was probably star swirl somehow cause by now I think it's safe to say in the past other ponies were pretty much decoration

[@Oban2006]

It's not the vault, that is the most wrong theory I have ever seen, I had to call you out on it

[@tylerharris7081]

Sobi the Robot you forget the mane 6's marks were taken out of the vault.

[@Rognik]

I agree with Shadowtechnik, the vault isn't magical. If Starlight Glimmer had put the Cutie Marks in jars, there still would've been equal marks replacing the old mark. I'd say it was part of the spell, and if the mark somehow got free mid-cast, it would go right back on the flank.

[@SobiTheRobot]

Rognik But she _didn't_ put them in jars first, did she?

[@sadlobster1]

Seems we've found your next patient, Doctor. All we need to do is find Starlight

[@willvale8625]

Man, this review was great! I loved how you used that music in the background as a nice reminiscent of the old days of MLP. I also like how you bring up the idea of Starlight taking and using Twilight's cutie mark. All and all, stellar review and I look forward to watching more.

[@LZRDWZRD]

This episode surpassed my expectations (which were already high). Definitely worth the wait. I'm really interested in how they'll use the map and Starlight in future episodes.

[@reflectivevagrant5531]

One factor I found disturbing was the removal of the special talents alongside the cutie marks. It felt like one was tearing into the characters' very souls. But then I thought back on the scenes with Pinkie, the episodes magical mystery cure, cutie pox, and many other things that reference how cutie marks form and how they work. I realized that the removal of the cutie marks weren't what caused the talents go to away, but rather the symbol that filled the void was the thing actively suppressing them instead. In other words, the talents were still intact inside them and not actually gone. The cutie marks may contain some of the energy of the special talent-Which Starlight Glimmer may try to exploit in the future(boy, could I imagine her getting angry when she tries to become a princess(or other such evil scheme) herself with it then fails or has limited/temporary/bad results.)-but the source was ultimately the pony that created the mark by discovering something within themselves in the first place. In short, the cutie marks may be a manifestation of their souls and an easy identification tool, but ultimately is still just a symbol and not the soul itself. At least, that's my head cannon. (now if I can just keep telling myself that then I can get to sleep tonight.)

[@MadMunchkin]

I have to say I shuddered at the thought of Starlight being able to put someone else's cutie mark onto someone else. That didn't even occur to me that she could learn to do that. Perhaps this is something that will happen if Starlight comes back? It would be a fantastic twist on a personality swap episode (which MLP is yet to do, and no, Magical Mystery Cure didn't do that) or perhaps have her use this ability on one of the other Alicorns in the show...? ...I smell fan fiction.

[@anticarrrot]

Mad Munchkin Here's another fun idea: Who says she'd be confined to putting the marks on ponies? You gotta figure that at least some of the other races must be a little disgruntled at the special place ponies seem to have in the world. What might a dragon, griffon, or diamond dog pay (or do) for pony magic of her own? What might Starlight be able to do with such an army at her command? And on the other hand, some marks may be more desirable than others...:P "Well done Blloodslaver Bonecrunch! You have pleased me greatly. And your reward will be a cutie mark in... flower arranging." "Wait, what?"

[@SpyroTheEternalNight]

anticarrrot she can take Pinkie's cutie mark and put it on Chrysalis! THIS IS SUCH A GOOD IDEA, IT NEEDS TO HAPPEN

[@nekonomicon9938]

I think it's my 2nd favorite opening. I think everyone was wanting something explosive or flashy like all the other 2 partners have been but i enjoy the change of pace.

[@ori0n_ssb]

Is this literally promoting equality for those of different sexualities?

[@nekonomicon9938]

Jace the Fox I don't think so

[@whoawhoa4062]

Nessie The Lochness Monster you made a typo my friend. two parters*

[@tylerharris7081]

Jace the Fox The episode is more of a criticism of "equality" movements in general, especially communism and socialism.

[@3Mewthree]

Nessie The Lochness Monster I really did appreciate this episode. It didn't need the flashyness to be awesome, it just simply addressed a topic I really find interesting

[@IreneShardaForever]

This was actually my favorite of the season premieres. There's just something about Starlight that actually makes her worse than all the other villains. Rather than being some bombastic super-villain, she's a charismatic cult leader that really thinks what she's doing is right. From the way she talked, I think that she perhaps never thought that she was good enough and never could be the best in her magic I guess, and that feeling grew to hatred and her philosophy of that if everyone is equal than no one can be the best. It's in a way, similar to Syndrome from the Incredibles but in reverse. Taking away everything that makes everyone else special in order to make them all supposedly "equal". However, interestingly, that philosophy never applies to her, because she is still the leader and the one who basically lords it over the rest. I really want to see her again, she is quite powerful in more ways than one, and with the right amount of manipulation, she could take over a country if she wanted.

[@yvetteberner815]

I personally really liked this episode. It felt like it had a lot of work and effort, and thought put into it. The jokes were very funny, the characters were great, and the plot was actually quite deep. It reminded me of the story "Harrison Bergeron", possessing quite a few parallels between them. Overall, a really well done episode, my second favorite yet.

[@ItsCamille735]

I love Our Town because of how clever it is, it's plain, dull and repetitive and it just kind of blends into the background but it is played up as some big grand thing based on the way starlight was hyping the ponies up at the beginning and even when the song reaches its climax it doesn't change in volume of beat. It feels like the perfect representation of the town

[@TheAnimationAnalyst]

As for my thoughts on the episode, I thought it was really good. The "perfect, creepy utopia" plotline has always been a personal favorite of mine, and I think they did it really well here. It's usually very disturbing, but mostly in a good way. The comedy was pretty good: Pinkie having to eat all the muffins was really funny, as well as the part with Fluttershy trying to leave Starlight's house to go to the cutie mark vault. It's also a real nice change of pace to have the Mane 6 NOT be the ones to ultimately save the day. (Technically anyway.) Also, I *love* Pinkie's characterization in this episode. Her going all Metal Gear Solid in the beginning, and her constant looks of suspicion in the first half, are fucking hilarious. And considering Pinkie is all about smiles and making people happy, it's perfectly in character for her to be suspicious of how unsettling-ly cheerful everyone is. And of course, being a huge Fluttershy fan, seeing her get to go all solo in the 2nd half of this episode was really cool. :) The song was... all right, but it did at least have a purpose in terms of the story, so I can't harp on it too much. The moral it taught was a really good one as well. Because, honestly, if friends never had disagreements, their friendships would be incredibly boring. I was also really surprised to see that Scott Sonneborn helped write this episode, though that might explain some of the humor. (Since Trade Ya had some funny moments, and while I hate Somepony to Watch Over Me, the song fakeout in that episode was really funny.) Overall, a great start to the season. I'd say, for now anyway, it's tied with Return of Harmony for my favorite season premiere. I'm liking where this season is going so far. The Mane 6 have basically become the Pony, Friendship equivalent of the Knights of the Round Table, and I find that pretty awesome. I have high hopes for the rest of the episodes here. :)

[@TheIndigoEclipse]

Funny thing about the song, I was of the same opinion at first. And then I listened to it a few more times. Now it's stuck in my head. The militaristic style, the little fife that contrasts with the dark lyrics, and the smug certainty in Shimmer's voice. Plus, the animation that went along with it was top notch. The way they got the correct equine motion for the parade gait, and the stomping of hooves at moments that matched goose-step style marching. They really did their homework. Plus, you know, that Fluttershy head-bobbing and Pinkie's expressions through the whole song. Dr.Wolf, I feel that you should go back and really look at the little things they put into that song. Perhaps it will give you more appreciation for it?

[@tylerharris7081]

Indigo Eclipse I completely agree. The song triggered that history buff in me with the lyrics and visuals. I felt like I was watching an old soviet propaganda film the entire time. Not to mention the more I hear it, the more it bores into my skull. Which is probably the point.

[@Ozzy9607]

Glad to be back Dr. Wolf once again reviewing this episode

[@LoverofSquids]

I found the song "Our Town" quite catchy. I listened to it a few times, and I can't help but sway to the music. Maybe it's the beat that makes it so catchy. I love songs with a good beat to them.

[@TheRagingwerepanda]

I missed all my favorite reviewers at BABSCon! T.T Hopefully you had fun there, that will make me feel better since I was working it. Nice review as usual.

[@cynt1719]

I loved seeing new characters, especially Double Diamond... I'm kinda of an awesome skier,...... but I love that other ponies decides the main 6 are actually helping. By te way... what is the song in the backround?

[@wendycorduroy8791]

ikr??? she had her cutie mark the whole time! and we didnt know

[@McGruffin]

5 Million wow, I remember when you posted your first video on the mlpanalysis subreddit. Its good to see how much you and your channel have grown, Here's hoping your channel will continue to grow in both popularity and Quality in the future!

[@MysticMindAnalysis]

Very interesting thoughts on the possible re-application of the Cutie Marks. I would have preferred to get SOME backstory for Starlight in this double episode, seeing as I felt that her magical power was left very ambiguous for such a powerful talent. But I will welcome her back in future episodes, as there is allot of potential for future conflict.

[@haybaybieberbeliever]

Hey doc i just wanted to say i didnt subcribe to you until just about 3 or 4 months ago but in that little amount to time you have been the only youtuber to make an impression on my life sometimes when you do AMWDW i actually have most of those problems and you have taught me how to get through them and become a better person. I want to thank you for all those times youve helped me or just made me smile in general during one of your videos. So thanks for your awesome content DRWolf001 and i look forward to much more to come. Brohoof /)

[@ErikButterworth]

Very nice review, Dr. Wolf! Also, kudos on having 35,000 subscribers and 5 million plus views on your channel! I can't wait to hear your reviews of the rest of the season!! Also, after what Starlight put Twilight through, I'm hoping Twilight gives Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Shining Armor the heads-up so they don't suffer the same fate that Starlight nearly put Twilight through. I might throw up if I see the Princesses of the Sun, Moon, and Love lose their cutie marks and get slapped with that equals sign mark of Starlight's doing as well, at least before the foregone conclusion of getting them back, of course.

[@mewuniverse7326]

Great review as always, Dr. Wolf. You deserve the success you've attained. :D As for the two-parter episode... I loved it! Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy are my favorite characters, and I adored how they got a chance to shine in this opener. Even though some may say Flutters was OOC here, IMO she wasn't. She's a non-confrontational pony as a whole, and she would love a town where no one fights or argues. Also, she is quite non-judgmental, as well. And Pinkie... she was her absolute best here. And OMZ the creepiness. SO MUCH CREEPY. The trope "Adult Fear" really was put into play here, with the forced brainwashing room and the eeriness of everyone's smiles and the equality cutie marks. That's what made this episode stand out so much and really shine. Also, I really do love the minor characters, especially Party Favor. Is it just me, or does he seem to be a stand-in for Cheese Sandwich? Hmmm.... (lol I'm such a shipper XD). But yeah, I'm super excited for what this will do for future episodes. :) Now to watch episode 3!

[@SacredFaerie]

Another grand thing they could expand on from this Season premiere that I haven't seen reviewers take note of a lot is the spell itself. What type of magic is it? Who made it? Why? And what is Starlight's talent that she is able to perform such a spell? Another magic cutie mark? What about the equals sign? How can it be applied to ponies? Was it once someone's cutie mark that Starlight extracted and duplicated? Or did she fabricate an actual cutie mark? The true powers in a cutie mark as well as the previous villain's powers have also come into play again. I also noted that the Mane Six would become grayer as the mark erased more of their lingering talent, but the townsfolk were mostly normally colored, except for the baker. Perhaps, the gray is a visible representation of their talents being erased by the = magic, and it goes away once there are no traces of their talent. Similar to Discord's magic in The Return of Harmony, perhaps the gray is suppressing their cutie marks, and the grayer they are, the stronger the magic. I find it strange that Pegasi can still fly when equalized. It seems to me that the ability to fly is included in the cutie mark, just as the ability to do magic and earth pony strength is. Now what I'm really curious to is what exactly Chrysalis does. She extracts 'love', and it seems to not really mean anything but that it tires the opponent. We never see her eat love in the show, unless her spell on Shining Armor was her eating, but I'm more inclined to say that was mind control. So Chrysalis definitely does not steal a pony's inherent magic, and Shining Armor was either mistaken when he said he was too weak from being drained or he simply meant he was tired, and if given time he could've done the spell. So, as an analogy to Starlight Glimmer and Tirek, Tirek is light a phone pulling electricity out of a battery and Starlight is like pulling the battery out and keeping it. In this case, the battery would be the Cutie Mark. I wonder though, the cutie marks are shown to fly to their natural owners, but what can stop that? If it's in another pony, then it won't return to it's correct owner. Tirek has absorbed magic, and Twilight was given magic, and the Mane Six have swapped cutie marks. The true powers in a cutie mark as well as the previous villain's powers have also come into play again. So what does the mark truly contain? In MMC, when they swap cutie marks, they are completely unable to do the task of their incorrect cutie marks. In Twilight's Kingdom, however, Twilight gains the ability to move the sun and moon, though she keeps her own cutie mark, and the drained seem unable to do much and are weak. What if Twilight's moving of the sun and moon were not because of Celestia's and Luna's talents, but simply from the fact that her own talent includes anything magical, and she had the quantity required for it?

[@TheMysticCore]

This episode felt like something you'd see in a comic book story arc, I LOVE IT!

[@RyanneVT]

Your voice is so comforting and relaxing

[@KrazyStargazer]

Yes! The hiatus is over! Looking forward to your videos Dr. Wolf :)

[@bubblycrash9611]

I wonder, would the mane 6 have failed if Starlight Glimmer was actually equal like everyone else?

[@LoKoSFermincho]

You deserve them Doc, you are my favorite MLP reviewer EVER!!! X3

[@sirnoodlearcher9777]

And I look forward to what you and the other analysts release!

[@SuperGodzilla2]

i say that it was worth the wait and cant wait to see what else they have for this season, and Thank You Dr.Wolf for uploading such great videos

[@gmsk7588]

4:45 so was the pilot, Canterlot wedding and lots of other two parters.

[@viviseidel991]

when Sugar Belle says: "we have... muffins", I always think of Derpy

[@Saiavinn]

And our meme for this season opener? "But I didn't listen!" and Party Favor's wonderful face to go with it XD

[@JCBro-yg8vd]

This was definitely a good change of pace for two parters. It opens a lot of potential doors, and there's a lot that could be done with what we now have to work with.

[@geminirenegade9290]

You touched on something that I had in mind, but never really thought to speak about it. The idea that if you can remove a talent, who's to say you can't apply the talent to someone else. Was Starlight planning to apply Twilight's cutie mark to herself or maybe she had someone who was going to take it from her? Perhaps an even greater villain who she was working for. Could more than one be applied as shown in the cutie pox episode? What if Twilight obtained her friends cutie marks somehow? Would she gain Rd's speed, aj's strength, and the rest of her friend's talents as well? Idk I'm rambling.

[@shadowacadamy]

You know, I think this is the new logic breaker. I absolutely loved how Party could make binoculars out of balloons. And I thought Pinkie Pie was unbelievable :D

[@TCReviewsStuff]

I think you're right dude, starlight getting away is so going to be an opening to a bigger threat :) great review as always!!!!

[@rillegas08backup]

I got the same feeling you did about Starlight's recurrence later on, and reminded me of Trixie after "Boast Busters". I also got the impression that there was much deeper to why Starlight was taking cutie marks away.

[@Brony22]

i have a thought and something ill like to say. you were right about starlight showing an interst in twilights cutie mark, which makes me wonder if she has plans to take it, and apply it to herself to become way more powerful, because twilight is already powerful as it is, and starlight has some power as well. but if she is able to get ahold of twilight's magic, then she might have the power to take the princesses (celestia, luna and cadence)

[@NelsonDemifur]

First, you're welcome and thank you for the videos you make and the ideas you've given all of us. Second, I have a video that I have to make that came to me after watching the episodes

[@ShallieDragon]

My theory: Starlight was collecting cutie marks in the vault so that she could harness their power. The vault had a few spaces missing, meaning that she was close to achieving her goals. I'm not sure what, but I think she has some kind of master plan to steal the talents of other ponies and become incredibly powerful.

[@kandikat13]

I personally was ecstatic that the MLP staff were willing to delve into something this dark and controversial again. My boyfriend even enjoyed this two-parter, which is saying something as he just does not like colourful ponies who break out into song randomly XD Also just wanted to say Dr. Wolf that I love the editing and background music in this video. Keep up the good work!

[@ThePetiteGamer]

Been a long time coming eh doc? I LOVED the expressions, totally hilarious and creepy.

[@MigotRen]

My opinion on the premiere: Its finally somtehing new, extremly well and mature written! Instead of fighting and extrem overpowerd stereotypical villain with their giant even more overpowerd friendship cannon of rainbows, they now have to face a more social and psychological disharmony or imbalance of a whole place caused by propaganda. Something like this easily could be taged as grimdark and psychological. I mean if you think about it this is some third reich Hitler/kim jong un stuff.... a town in that the normal ponys don't know how the world on the outside really is and thier minds are occupied by the idealism of equality. All caused by propaganda from their leader who just uses their ignorance to get more power and might. But the main 6 were not able to detect the actual threat to begin with because equality and the shown happiniess isn't really the thing someone would see as immediate danger. And by the time they noticed it was to late for an offensive against their leader becase she coverd herself very well (its like how hitler slowly took over nearby countries until a certain point where the other big nations saw him as threat and so ww2 began because he was to greedy but here the main six where alrady in the trap). And so the main six couldn't overpower her (if they had their harmony elemnts they would've been like america and defeated starlight in would be equal to actual strike in a war stituation) but with the alrady damaged coinfidence of the town ponies in their idealism (also caused by them: see the scene while they were eating and showed happines even though they were different), they were able to start a revolution by starting the fire for freedom in the alrady heated national emotionally of the ponies inflamed by the spark of revealing their leaders true face..... I came up with most of this while writing this ...HOLY SHIT... and there wer so many things I wanted to mention as well but got carried away by this idea, like the total dumbness of cartoonish story writing we are used to not showing in this two part premiere and making fluttershy a character with a level of shyness and naivety that actually matches her expected age like in keep calm and flutter on and not that artificial level of shyness and naivety that only apears in cartoons for what reason so ever. I need to make my own video of this as soon as possible (and when my damn pc is working again xD)

[@honeytonguemamao6816]

MigotRen Yeah, I would love to watch that. =^.^=

[@flairthedark6000]

MigotRen Indeed, tis well written, what I find a little disturbing is that people UNDERPLAY just what kinda damage starlight coulda caused: seriously, taking not only their talents, their marks, and generic skills the individual has, but also ALTERING THEIR PERSONALITY, Seriously am I the ONLY one who see's the horrible danger that presents? then again I value my individuality QUITE alot, so thats probably where it comes from... But still dont tell me im the only one who saw the potential danger here! also what doctor wolf brought up: switching ones own cutie mark with anothers at will, that makes the whole situation even MORE dangerous, the potential damage that someone like starlight could do with an alicorns talent for magic and alot of the skill that comes with it would be DISASTORUS! (sorry I cant spell at times)

[@honeytonguemamao6816]

FlairTheDark's Neo Arcadia Gaming You're not alone my friend. Starlight Glimmer is a dangerous little pony, and should be on Equestria's Most Wanted!

[@flairthedark6000]

Amen! glad to see Not only THE MADMAN notices this! The madman being me of course! I may have skimmed a few parts of the episode, so Im ASSUMING the staff was destroyed when the marks were released, so that threats gone, Correct me if im dead wrong!

[@JKrowlingrockx]

FlairTheDark's Neo Arcadia Gaming technically, the staff simply hit the wall of the vault with enough force to crack the glass, but it bounces away unharmed and you can even hear it hitting the floor if your sound quality is good enough. But Starlight Glimmer herself said the stick was basically just a prop. She was the one that truly had the power to take their cutie marks away.....which almost makes her all the more scary and threatening that she got away, doesn't it? ;)

[@TsuriaDragon]

Would be interesting if starlight was working for Queen Chrysalis and the changelings :) this premier was good not the best but was different and shown new way for Mlp then the other season openers.

[@killgora1]

I think this is going to be a good season. I don't exactly know what this season could bring, but with a great start like this I have a feeling it's going to be great.

[@EdXLover1]

Congrats on your increase in subscribers, Wolfy! ^^ And I'm calling it now, who bets that in the season finale Starlight returns and finds the cutie map and uses it for evil?

[@Zodia195]

Well, this is my 2nd fav opener. 4th season is still my fav because I felt it was more entertaining, but it was still close. My only real nick pick was that they never mentioned the name of the blue female pegasus in the episode, which is Night Glider. You only found it in the credits.

[@GPischke]

I thoroughly enjoyed the premiere. I liked the new ponies and Starlight and the fact that she got away in the end, which most likely means she'll be back again later on. I'd also love to learn more about this mage called Meadowbrook and her/his eight magical items. I thought it was very appropriate that Fluttershy was so intrigued by the town and its philosophy. If anypony knows how it feels to be belittled for her cutie mark, it's probably her.

[@FastLane46]

The way I described the town to some of my fanfiction friends is, "An entire town where everypony is a Greg Biffle fan." I loved the Cutie Map because the kingdom is now more expansive than ever and it will now allow fans to come up with even more story ideas. The town I want to see more than anything else is Las Pegasus, but that's just because I like Las Vegas so much. I did also like how working together as friends helped fix the problem in the end instead of just blasting Starlight with magic, and I loved how she actually escaped. I just want to know why the map didn't show up at the S4 finale when the 6 all sat down, but it did in the S5 premier when they again all sat down together. The next episode should be an interesting slice of life. Adjusting to a new home, no matter how old you are or who you are can't be easy.

[@FastLane46]

And I sense shippers will go insane for "Pinkie Favor " or "Party Pie"

[@HalfTangible]

In future episodes, I imagine that the cutie map will send the ponies off on solo missions from time to time, and not just as a group. The characters will end up meeting ponies who - like Starlight - have a very skewed idea of what their particular element is. And that several of them will get away entirely. One thing I noticed was that much like Sunset Shimmer, Starlight was set up to be an evil mirror of Twilight. She places high importance on friendship, has powerful magic, colored streaks in her hair, she's a leader... heck, even down to her NAME (which annoyed the crud out of me, if I'm honest - it's not even SUBTLE). That got me thinking: what if they did that again, with our other main characters? And then had THOSE characters form their own group to oppose the mane six in some fashion? Because I dunno about you, but I would LOVE to see the mane six fight their evil mirror counterparts. Maybe in the movie? And then bring in their friends from other seasons and episodes to help?

[@origami.fanatic2576]

I was still trying to figure out my feelings for this episode when I watched this video. I finally realized that I love this season opener more than the other two-parters, mainly because it wasn't being shoved in my face. "The Cutie Map" had good pacing and everything seemed to flow together. It all seemed natural, well as natural as one can get when you are the princess of friendship. The one thing I didn't like about this episode was how we never learned why Starlight Glimmer wanted all of those cutie marks and why Twilight's was so special. Oh well, I guess we'll just have to wait and see what season five has in store for us.

[@dustyevee]

Not bad for a season premier. This brought up alot of ways we can think about where the mane 6 will go in their adventures. Im excited to know what will happen next.

[@EstivalEquinox]

I can't help but wonder, after hearing what you've said: What if Starlight may want to remove all of or one of the Alicorn's cutie marks and apply it to herself somehow? She has been studying magic, but without true friendship to tamper her... what if she wants to control or to rule all of Equestria and conform it to her ideals? If she's able to take a hold of the Royal Sisters, Twilights, and/or Cadance's marks and abilities... that is in fact a lot of power to try and influence the country under her rule. And we know she can do it if timed just right, after all Twilight was the first to be stolen from. I dunno... somehow the idea of her getting a hold of the Royals somehow... creeps me out. Maybe that vault was there so she could collect every pony's talents and abilities? She was just waiting for the right time? Still getting creeped out here. Of course I'm probably completely off.

[@fraya1022]

I just became a pegausister a few months ago, so this was the first episode I've ever watched on T.V. as it premiered! I was not disappointed! I love Starlight Glimmer as her who as a villain, she was so much more evil than the others to me, even moving just slightly above my Queen. The highlights of the episode for me was when they were all locked in the closet with the speaker just playing the same messages over and over. It actually took me out of it for a minute and just wonder what exactly am I watching. Come on, she used a real life, no magic needed TORTURE technique! Also, does this episode not remind you of Ba Sing Se from Avatar: The Last Airbender? THOSE SMILES. I also loved the end (but why couldn't they have just followed her?) when the other four had to get the cutie marks back. I now consider them the secondary Mane 6 (or Mane 4, in this case). I just absolutely loved this episode!!!

[@sonalaggarwal2733]

I really liked how this two-parter was so different from all the other two-parters.

[@Tokuman100]

Hey, Dr. Wolf. Can I just ask what you personally thought of the iconic scene where Starlight shut down Twilight in the middle of her friendship speech?

[@CoinneachUasal]

Ohhh...that is very interesting idea about replacing your cutie mark with someone else, Very good stories/morals so far this season.

[@TheBrickly]

While not my favorite 2 parter and not my least favorite (that would go to the best night ever) this is still a fantastic way to start off the season. I am excited to see the rest of equestria and beyond which we are likely to see now that the map is a thing. However at the moment the thing I am most excited about is the 100th episode. Supposedly it's going to feature the background fandom characters like Vinyl, Octavia, Derpy, Lyra, and BonBon. I have high hopes for this season.

[@Doughboy123x]

My thoughts: -For the most part, I'd say yes. The wait was worth it. :-) -I liked how dark this episode was. Very unsettling. I also loved how we got to meet and identify with new characters aside the mane 6. If I had to dislike anything, I would say that some of the handicap effects from the equal cutie marks were inconsistent. That, and Pinkie's slip up in the caves. -It's very likely Starlight Glimmer will be returning. I would love to see her be a recurring villain, but I can probably tell they're just going to save her for the finale.

[@madisonboone1655]

Hey Doc, I defiantly think this season's wait was worth it! I do believe Starlight Glimmer was doing evil, but she just didn't know it. Maybe there's some backstory to her behavior and thinking a special talent leads to loosing friends. Maybe when she first got her cutie mark the other ponies were bragging about their's to her. Let's say another filly in Starlights childhood school had a cutie mark that of a shining lightbulb representing her genius. Maybe Starlight was jealous of this pony (and possibly other ponies) because their cutie marks were more advanced than hers, and they actually got something out of it. I guess that's how Starlight suddenly thought that the only way to be happy was to be equal. I hope for a future episode the writers will tell us some backstory of Starlight

[@lightning-bliss]

Well I said my piece on the new episode with Molly Chan: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHW5fampgbSej8U Though I may not have voiced my positieves or negatives in my episodes since I aim more for entertainment in my reviews. That said though probably one of my favorite aspects I loved about the new episode is the animation itself. One of my favorite scenes other then the facial expressions themselves, was the chase scene with Starlight Glimmer. It gave a huge open view to the surrounding enviorment, as well as a heighten feeling of concern and fear that she might get away. This world is big, those mountains were big, and the fact she could easily escape just by hiding in them? The animation of those shots with her running, the other village ponies chasing her, a balloon bridge! Snow pie, an air ski drop?! Or the fact she nearly drops the jars of cutiemarks at one point over a bridge, or her powerful magic of zapping away a bridge. I just loved it, it was all so fluent! If I have anything negative to say about this episode... I suppose it would be the title. "Cutiemark Map". It's one of those obvious titles that have very little to do with the episode itself, other then at the very beginning. I was kinda expecting a more mysterious title that didn't spell out the episode as much, a little more creativity with it like um... "United Together(?)" something like that.

[@chefvortivask1952]

Spoiler warning I guess, I dunno So. Is the face Party Favour makes before saying "BUT I DIDNT LISTEN" after being released from the hypnotize house going to become a widespread meme. It looks derp enough to achieve it.

[@MegaMicah12]

john wodehouse Well it has started on a website called Know Your Meme.

[@IanTester]

john wodehouse It's already a meme. It only took a day or two. derpibooru.org/tags/i+didn't+listen

[@Rognik]

john wodehouse You can never predict what will or won't become a meme.

[@chefvortivask1952]

Well I did when I watched it. So whatcha gon' do 'bout it?

[@TheTwilitHero]

is there any site that legally streams new episodes of mlp? I don't have cable sooo.... yeah.

[@inichan8786]

DRWolf, I believe exactly that was what made the song perfectly fit for these folks. It wasn't about exciting someone in an over the tone way, it was about being blank and just grey. It wasn't out of tune, yet still unmemorable like the townsfolk have become. It did sound.....just nice and that was exactly it. It wasn't special at all. And thus helped giving you the feeling something was wrong besides Pinky Pies "wrong smiles" comment. It really brought it up to the surface how wrong the situation truly was with Starlight Glimmer and the village.

[@Peppermint88]

Starlight basically shutting down twilight was an eye opener. But the one thing that caught my ears was where double diamond mentioned that he first met starlight where his old skis were at so I'm wondering did the town was already made before starlights appearance

[@bretskin1]

Starlight shimmers idea of equality has already been done on a grander scale by the tree of harmony. The tree gave every pony the ability to use magic and a chance to find their cutie mark. They all have been given an equal chance. However no one in the show bothers to think about this.

[@violetquartz8817]

Just one question... How are you still standing in the golden oaks library (aka Twilight's library)???!!! o-O

[@StripesChaosGremlin]

I enjoyed this episode very much though there was a few minor things that bugged me, but I touch on that in a second. Firstly what I enjoyed about this. Everypony had moments to shine, props to Flutters and Pinkie especially. Starlight Glimmer was quite an interesting villain and I'm glad that her arc didn't end here. The town was freaking creepy, never has two parallel lines creeped me out so much that is awesome. Now for one my bigger gripe with this opener... equality. I'm quite surprised that nopony pointed out the fact that Starlight running the town made her stand above the rest of them. Also the fact that pegasi and unicorns still retained their most basic skills (flight and levitation receptively) meaning that at the most basic level they aren't truly equal. My other grip major gripe is Spike... I wish they could utilizing him more often, while his presence could have demolish Starlight's plan by the fact that he has no cutie mark, I did create a basic idea of how he could have fit into the narrative without breaking it on Tommy Oliver's review of this episode, though I don't know how well it could have worked. I know I put more detail into the bad than the good but I still enjoy this episode a lot despite these flaws. I'd give it four out of five gemstones.

[@AdmiralTNT531]

To say it was worth the wait is an understatement.

[@justin89925]

It surprise so much this episode threre were some interesting point like pickie was able to see something wrong with the town just by a smile.

[@Wiiguy1606]

Answers to your questions: 1) Yes, the wait was worth it! It was better than I expected. 2) What I like the most about this episode: The fact that it's the Equal Four that had to stop Starlight and not the Mane 6 who dealt the "final blow" to Starlight's retreat. Though, just as it should be, the Mane 6 got the ball rolling. 3) Since I don't really "hate" any of the episode, the closest thing I can officially say is that the song was not very ear-wormy. I won't be humming that very often. 4) Future Stories: I don't have any unique ideas, but I am curious where the Map will lead them next!

[@redemption2]

The scariest thing about this entire thing is Starlight herself. She may be the strongest antagonist to date, however passively. I plan on making an article or a video soon about her.

[@wolfsong1123]

I have an episode Idea SO the main villains (discord chrysalis sombra starlight) join together to take over Equestria...and succeed to capture EVERYPONY INCLUDING MAIN 6 AND ALL THE PRINCESSES!!! (possibly removing cutiemarks having to do with it?)and when all seems lost.. you see a certain mare named derpy and her friend : a brown pony with an hourglass cutie mark an a green tie (hint hint you guys know who i mean if you read fanfic ;3). They are looking for a place to hide and plan to fight back when they find: Octavia,Vinyl,Lyra, and BonBon all hiding. These four other ponies decide to help Derpy and the Brown stallion. they end up saving Equestria and the "Secondary Six" are born :D

[@spolachs1251]

What I really liked about Starlight is that for a villain she is still a normal Pony and has not that "I use everything for my Goal" mindset what many other villains use. For examble she doesnt use any physical violence exept for the removal of the cutie marks of the mane 6 and at the end of the Episode. She just use her magic if there is no other way (or if shes angry) against other ponys another example is that she didnt attack night glider directly or blow up the bridge insted of shooting a magic beam against the ponys, even after she was exposed by the town as a fraud she didnt use anything against them except words and run into her house insted of overpowering the other ponys. This Shows that she is just someone that trys to fulfill their goal or dream but wouldnt go so far to harm anyone with exeptions. P.S. : Theoretical she has a "better" moral compass than Twilight and the royal families, since she doent use a reforming spell agianst her enemys and gives them an unfair choise and also doesnt imprison their enemys, at a hellish place without company, forever without a choice of redemption. But thats just a theory. Thanks for reading so far and sorry for my bad grammer.

[@onett4133]

Btw in a season 5 teaser Meagan says: "If your magic skills are good you can use the map for other things"

[@ArachCobra]

I'd say it was worth the wait. In fact, I'd dare say this may be my favourite two-parter, especially because they go away from many of the usual two-parter cliches.

[@optimusprime150]

I'm inclined to agree with you on all the aspects you reviewed about the season premier. And I do feel that there was far more to Starlight Glimmer than what we could see in just these two episodes. In a way I saw a deep desire for power from her, either by removing power from others or by gaining it herself through some means and the fact she showed so much interest in Twilight's cutie mark only adds to this. When her scheme was exposed it seemed she only cared about keeping power since the marks she gave others made it impossible for any one of them to challenge her. She is quite manipulative and cunning as well as being able to plan well in advance. I think we're going to see a lot more from her in time.

[@jshadowhunter]

If there was ever any doubt, Starlight Glimmer is a pony corrupted by Pride. Which is going to bit her in the rump. I'm betting we'll be seeing soon again and maybe, just maybe, she'll find Grogor chained somwhere within the deep caverens where she retreated. Anyways, we'll always be here for you Doc. =)

[@AJponyAPschannel]

Wasn't its original name cutie mark less?

[@hannahrathke9588]

Yes AJ, but I don't know why they changed it.

[@No1ofgreatimportance]

Starlight Glimmer might be able to apply a cutie mark to some-pony else? ....... Uh oh, Some have speculated that King Sombra is in fact a blank flank.... and while I know that the comic mlp series may not be as canon as the show itself, Fiend-ship is Magic may give Sombra a reason to want every-pony else to have the same cutie mark...

[@aryanarora9174]

i think that starlight glimmer is going to take advantage of cutie mark crusaders as they do not have a cutie mark and say that she can give them a cutie mark for something which would help her achieve her goals (like maybe the mane 6 will find an ancient relic which was having the power to take and give someone memories)

[@krekln98]

I want to know more about starlights past. She's only a unicorn and from what we've seen she's almost as powerful as twilight. It took a dark amulet for anyone to even manage that in the past, and that was before her ascension to alicorn. I really hope we see her again this season.

[@kamy2425]

If Starlight knows this cutie unmarking spell, and I'm sure that Twilight doesn't know anything about it, that means she learned it from someone, someone that knows spells that hasn't been tested or heard. Starlight's task was to collect cutie marks for her master. But an alicorn's cutie mark? That could have the level of about 200 normal cutie marks! Even if she failed with the cutie vault, giving him/her this cutie mark would have probably satisfy her master.

[@Chronicsonic23]

The "cutie map", which came from the elements/tree of harmony, shows that it has some kind of sentience. Starlight Glimmer will probably be the next supervillian, considering she can remove cutie marks with her own magic, so she's a much bigger threat than you might expect. Last time we saw magic like that, it was from an incomplete spell from Starswirl the Bearded himself. I bet Starlight Glimmer is going to be set up as either some kind of "anti-elements of harmony" or a direct descendant of Starswirl.

[@alexvoicer689]

Love watching your videos Dr.Wolf big fan of yours,I love watching my little pony friendship is magic I know am not a reviewer like yourself. I just love watching the show but I do have moments where parts seem off to me when I watch the show but overall I love hearing and watching stories good and bad. Keep doing your amazing work doc!! :)

[@andyreacts]

You know, Dr. you're presenting some intriguing ideas here. You are right, maybe Starlight could even replace a cutie mark...oh man, that sounds pretty creepy. I mean think of it! She could maybe even give Twilights powers to herself. Then again in the S3 finale everypony got their cutie mark switched and was not good at it anyway... Still, an interesting idea. I loved the premiere. It was...different. Loved the fact that other ponies got to be heroes, loved Sugar Bell and the moments each Character had. And yup, Fluttershy and Pinkie really shined here. The song was meh for me too. But well, for what it is supposed to be it works. Just it is a rather weak song for a premiere episode I think. Anyways, thanks for your effort! ANdy

[@RosaLuxembae]

Should there have been a more Functionalist (equality =/= sameness) message or would it have been drumming the message in?

[@HippyShake9]

Yup, I've said it once, I will say it again! I'm very excited to see what will come of this new season! I loved this episode! :D

[@heathrin18]

The more that I watch this premiere the more it is becoming one of my favorites of all the season openings and finale's. Yes its not as exciting, however you don't need a big flashy villain or catastrophe to make a good story, the best kind of stories to me personally are the one's that make you think and observe. And the Cutie Map did just that. This was also a complete break in formula, which I am very happy about, I love MLP:FIM and all their premiers and finales. But I was becoming a tad concerned when they were following a pattern, almost akin to that of Dragon Ball Z. Big villain shows up, supporting characters do their best to help at least until the main protagonist swoops in and saves the day one way or another even they seem to lose at first only to come back stronger then ever. Twilight is my second favorite character of the show, and I was really hoping she wouldn't end up like Goku, who I do like as a character but its get boring and too predictable if one character is so powerful and expected to win nearly all the time. These episodes ceased all my fears all together, not only did they do something different and not stick to a pattern, but they also wrote Twilight wonderfully in which she expresses she wouldn't even be a princess without her friends and they are the reason for her successes. Which is true, Twilight has always failed when trying to do things on her own, it is only with her friends and family that she succeeds. The break in the formula I feel was very much needed and refreshing in my opinion. For one this is the only premiere where none of the other princesses make an appearance or send Twilight and her friends on a quest. This is entirely their mission that they collectively voted and agreed to go on and it is also the first mission they've sought on purpose. They've stumbled into situations that needed their help but never by consensus, this time around they are seeking it. It showed how much they have all grown as friends and have accepted and are aware of how much they have done and can do together. Even their influence alone is enough, even though the mane six didn't take down Starlight alone, it is because of them that propelled the new ponies to succeed and win the day. I love that! I love that there mere influence and example is enough to inspire, it makes me excited for the rest of the season. Next is the villain, she is far different then of the flashier villains of the past, she has plans but is taking them slowly and never once underestimates her opponents. I get the sense that there is something to her backstory where she was personally hurt by those different then herself. She's more subtle and always has a back up plan, she's intelligent but emotionally unstable, people have made assumptions that this is who Twilight could have become, personally I don't think so. Twilight never sought friendship she only wanted to further her studies. Starlight I think in actuality wanted the opposite, she wanted friendship or at least companionship, I really think there is something more to her especially the fact that she was intelligent and powerful enough to escape. The only villain to escape on her own accord! I've always wanted a reoccurring villain and if any villain can fit the bill it is Starlight in my opinion. And finally what I enjoyed a lot was that it made me really think. This premier made viewers delve a little deeper, it wasn't a big flashy villain, nor a possessed magical artifact of darker intent. It was something more psychological, to me that is more terrifying, physical wounds will always heal. But mental and emotional wounds? There are some who are never cured. This felt darker to me in that state of mind these ponies were made to honestly believe a broken philosophy, it made you think, and I like all stories that do that. Whew that was a long comment...sorry...went on a bit of a tangent there...but there you guy I loved this premiere and look forward to the next episode real soon.

[@heathrin18]

***** Oh yeah also one more thing, its kind of even more disturbing and interesting at the same time, I estimate that this town has been around for at least a decade due to their being actual foals in the town. But none of the foals had cutie marks, which means...Starlight's spell only effects you once you get your cutie mark, so young foals are immune to her spell. I speculate all the foals had to be born in the village then, and raised on this philosophy, meaning they were taught to find their special talents so that they could get rid of them. Because otherwise children brought into this lifestyle would ask questions, in fact...maybe that's why Starlight has that room where she kept the mane six. For the children of the town so as to brainwash them early enough so that they wouldn't ask questions and rebel, given she has no other way to control them. She was on the verge of creating a new generation that would no way question her logic, cause they would never know what it was like to even have cutie marks, and have no reason to defy her. Wow...that is really dark...sorry season two premiere you are about to be replaced.

[@JacobMKeeneAKADrPepperKing]

Interesting review as always! Also, I guess you'll be using background music in your reviews from now on?

[@kamy2425]

After getting her = mark, Fluttershy was able to do lots of amazing things that old Fluttershy would be really really afraid to do. We've seen these marks also affect ponies' personality, what if the mark actually made Fluttershy's shyness to be on an equal level as everypony? For her, the mark actually made her more braver than she was!

[@ZGuy0fSci]

All I can say its also a good lesson for those that would think to force a singular (and too often THEIR) mindset of ideals upon all others and the rest, or that 'Equal' meaning 'Being all the Same.' We've seen these before, something about 1984? (forgot the year) along with older show or anime as remembered, and imo they did a great job with it here. And yes, it will be interesting to see how things progress considering Glimmer.

[@ZGuy0fSci]

also though, there didn't seem to be so much a question of Hate per say so much simply a matter of hurt yet not perhaps past forgiveness if sought with her here? Starlight Glimmer reminds me in some ways with Trixie, but with an ideology that is less than utilitarian as instead of being a snobbish showmare nor was there a if limited threat to direct life, as with could have been by Trixie under the amulet. (their lives as known but still alive) I can see her at the end being a dangerous an attack yet if it would have killed? Who can say, yet still the idea that she was not in a full or direct way dangerous to start leaving off on her own to come back in a bigger way as a danger to others if not herself with a chance to be forgave or will it be too much? I can see much parallels to Trixie with Glimmer, and this I can call a fun opportunity indeed. ^-^ (and a chance for Trixie to shine at some point, as one to talk her down too)

[@theironicmonster]

THANK YOU FOR THIS. i thought no one would understand why the two parter was good even if it wasn't exciting like the perivious two parters! its about whats to come and what these episodes are implying!

[@kamy2425]

What I thought on table map: "We're knights of the round table We dance when e're we're able We do routines and chorus scenes With footwork impecc-able" XD

I really would like to see Starlight Glimmer return in the future... She's an interesting antagonist! An idea I have for it is.. What if Starlight were to return, having practiced her magic, learnt new spells to counter Twilight's, then stole Twilight's cutie mark? (And by that, I mean as you suggested DrWolf - What If Starlight removed her cutie mark and put on Twilight's just like she put the Equal cutie mark onto others?) I feel like this would make for an interesting episode, and might even make Starlight a much bigger threat in said future episode... Anyone else? c: ( Another great review too, DrWolf! c: )

[@dynowolf345]

i want to hear more on what was starlight glimmers reasoning for trying to get the ponies "equality." also i saw that double diamond looked back when he gave the cutie marks to her. as if he was sad or confused as to why she's doing this. i know i might be reading to much on that, but it's something. :) hope to hear what you think of this.