"The Times They Are A Changeling" Review

[@omniviewer2115]

I have to speak in defense of the song. Is it a bit corny? Maybe it is. At the same time, it was Spike bearing his soul, putting everything on the line to defend the undefendable. And I do mean everything. not just his status as a hero. Imagine the consequence if Twilight didn't believe him. Never forget that Spike is a kid, and thus would express himself like a kid. The song conveyed that. It's exactly the sort of a song a kid like Spike would sing in that scenario. That's what I think, anyway.

[@TimeTravelMaster]

I couldn't agree more.

[@soniquefus]

yeah while I agree with most of the parts in his video, I disagree on the song... while it might not have been the BEST way to bring about his point, it was a very endearing song and I absolutely loved it

[@snowballeclipse4991]

no

[@RubberyCat]

The song was good, or even really good. The problem isn't that part. The problem is that it was contrived, and it currently cements the "ease the emotional transition with a song"-trope that also were used for Starlight and Zephyr Breeze. I.e. it seems to have been more for the viewers than the characters.

[@omniviewer2115]

RubberyCat I'll give you the point for Starlight, but I wouldn't say that applies to Zephyr. His emotional shift was building up over the whole episode, making the song a catharsis. That was the climax of his arc. Spike's song was sudden, sure, but contrived? Sometimes contrivance, much like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. It's like the realism argument from "Stranger Than Fan Fiction", in which valid points can be made for both sides, and neither one is completely wrong.

[@TigerW0lf]

I loved the episode regardless of the issues with it. my only complaint is that the song wasn't needed and it was awkward in its placement

[@senorbailey5496]

But there was at least one catchy moment in the song

[@DinoboySeth]

+THETALKER the song wasn't bad itself but it just wasn't necessary

[@realJoeMavro]

What about the fact that a changeling showed up at Cranky and Matilda's wedding and neither Cadence nor Shining Armor seemed to care?

[@mrdzentertainment1062]

yes, thorax was in the donkeys wedding and no, Mr and Mrs Cadence didn't notice him

[@jose132pie8]

yeah it wasnt needed

[@GPischke]

Spike is absolutely KILLING IT this season. What with newfound friendships with Ember and now Thorax, he might just be the key to establishing unity between ponies and other notoriously hostile species. Hopefully they'll touch upon this more in the season finale. I want to see armies of dragons, griffons, buffalo and maybe even changelings teaming up with ponies to defeat a common threat.

[@mewtwotwo2222]

wouldn't say its fair to compare a 20 minute episode to a feature film for what the episode was i think it was done very well i really loved this episode

[@Venquine_R]

There really is only one thing I would have wanted the staff to add. During the end of Spike's song, you see Starlight looking at her feet, clearly realizing something that makes her feel sad or even guilty. Personally, I find the whole thing between her having been forgiven and the Changeling being forgiven being quite similar, so I think I would have liked it if something like this had happened: End of Song Spike looks around. We see everyone still glaring. Starlight Glimmer moves forward instead of Twilight: "Spike is right. I was evil and you forgave me. Thorax is only considered evil, but he obviously doesn't want to be. If you can give me a chance, then why can't you give the same to him?" And then Twilight moves forward and says her part, agreeing with both of them. It's a small change, but it would have been so incredible in regards to character development and it would have, again proven that Starlight really wants to learn about Friendship, just like Thorax. Maybe I am looking into this the wrong way, I just feel like that, especially when looking back at the ending of that song.

[@RosieSievers]

I loved this episode and Spike's song was beautifully put together. And Thorax was a great character, he has great potential to appear in future episodes especially he wants to forge his own path. If Chrysalis appeared in the season finale and Twilight and the Mane 6 struggled to stop them from ruling Equestria and protecting Shining Armor, Cadence and Flurry Heart, I think both Starlight and Spike along with their new friends Ember, Sunburst, Trixie and Thorax maybe with characters old and new help save the day. That would be a great season finale story ^^ I give this episode 9.5/10 ^^

[@calindastrayhorn]

I would call that the best season finale ever! If that happened!

[@jaketucker2559]

Or what if it was something bigger like grogar, which my headcannon says is worse than tirek, takes over and doesn't ally with any villain, the creatures of equestria would have a common enemy, and have to unite to stop it.

[@grainneorgracequinn2888]

That would be fantastic!

[@TheGroundedAviator]

Heck if they ever have a character give it all (as in die) Thorax dying too stop Chrysalis would be the ultimate way of proving himself... then death id not for this series.

[@ethanhemphill3348]

I whole heartedly agree about that and I just find the episode good in general and very, very, very, cool with its added insight on the changelings and the moral and conflict tackled considering how things currently are in America with prejudice...*shoots Donald trump a death glare*. Personally my only problem is that they seemingly painted thorax or only some select few changelings as good or not bad while painting the rest as bad and/or evil. However that doesn't ruin my view of the episode, I personally give it a 10/10 ^w^

[@camille2175]

Boulder is a changling! That's hilarious and it makes sense! XD

[@DavyEddyBenny]

That suddenly explains the sandwich that disappeared in front of him during "Maud Pie"

[@yomolwaspran1527]

What if TOM is a changeling. What if ALL ROCKS ARE CHANGELINGS. ...I love the fact that there's more then one named rocks in this show. And no, I'm not counting rocky. He was an amalgamation of rocks, not just one.

[@EaglexHeart]

+Yomol Waspran Pinkimena had A changeling at her party!

[@AkaRedFallen]

BOULDER A CHANGELING!! QUICK, SOMEONE WRITE FANFIC ABOUT THIS!! HOT TOPIC!!! IS INSTANT FRONT PAGE IF DONE RIGHT!!

[@barsni4779]

Fantastic theory!

[@jeffheithaus9120]

I think this is Spike second best episode. Spike help with the Dragons and now the Changlings. I feel like Spike help with uniting other species together for something big. Also Bolder is a Changling maybe, that going to be very interesting fanfic material. Also I already like Thorax very much and hope to see more of him too.

[@RedDragonForce2]

Nice ending!!! And I wouldn't put it past Maude to know that Boulder is a Changeling and NOT care!!!

[@dawnforest1506]

Maud befriended changelings before it was cool

[@thatguy2756]

i feel like this should be a thing

[@creepydash9356]

+Dawn Forest maud is a trendsetter!

[@darkdragon7210]

In other words there was one more hold out over Thorax's Brother. Oh what about her boyfriend Mudbrier what if Twiggy is also a Changeling?

[@ditdot609]

It seemed like this episode almost needed to be a two parter

[@lisamariefan]

"May one day become a fan favorite." > Implying he isn't already.

[@lisamariefan]

Like dude: You need some perspective here. We've had ponies that had much less screen time than the Changeling that blew up.

[@Torterra625]

A confrontation involving the Dragons and Changelings with Ponies caught in the middle. PLEASE make that happen!

[@taddad2641]

....... that would be completely one sided honestly. changelings are not the toughest of foes and dragons are vyer strong.

[@gutsmasterson2488]

but very dumb

[@shadowwriter4538]

Dragons would win automatically, especially if they are impervious to magic

[@gutsmasterson2488]

ShadowWriter45 But Changelings are smarter

[@dylantennant6594]

I agree , and aside from shapeshifting what can changelings even do battle wise, aside from confusing the enemy. Changelings make better spies then soilders.

[@digigirl92]

That theory about Boulder at the end made my mind implode. O_O

[@jaketucker2559]

Somebody get the tin foil hats

[@KimFareseed]

Hm, well now, wonder how popular the Pet Rock cover is?

[@jose132pie8]

same

[@gutsmasterson2488]

I'm stoned from this

[@SketchBookShortFilms]

It's Scabbers all over again!

[@yomolwaspran1527]

One thing I noticed: The way Chrysalis's magic looked- it was different from any other magic we've seen in the show thus far. Just look at her horn, it looks AWESOME. I really doubt we'll be seeing that just once.

[@AJponyAPschannel]

My biggest complaint is them not already having some kind of changeling reveal spell, and the dumbness of the Royal guard >.< though aside from how shinng quickly turned around at the very end, I loved everything else

[@rocklobsterjwt]

Yeah, this episode was too quickly resolved.

[@tumorwhorse6822]

I think they were nervous around Spike.

[@ToeIn2194]

Zecora had a changeling reveal spell,but only in an alternate timeline so they probably have not invented that spell yet or just never asked Zecora for the recipe.

[@tumorwhorse6822]

I don't think there's a spell for every possible thing. But they are known to turn back to changelings when they get hurt.

[@AJponyAPschannel]

... that's right, there is a way, now I is just more thrown off >.< though let it pass just a bit knowing the story wouldn't work as well if there was one

[@22espec]

I liked the song.

[@SilverNote]

THANK YOU

[@booklover4330]

Me too! XD.

[@hariman7727]

Yay! I'm not the only one!

[@Cowboygineer]

If "The Times They Are A Changeling" became a two parter, perhaps the writers could improve the pacing and maybe some other things wrong in this episode.

[@shadowwriter4538]

They could have done that easily if it was a two parter. However, I think they'll continue this story in another episode that will expand on Thorax and the concept as a whole somewhere along the lines

[@grainneorgracequinn2888]

+ShadowWriter45 I hope so. I hop Queen Chyrsalisis comes back for the season finale !😍

[@Galaxia53]

I wonder if Hasbro gives them a schedule that's too tight there for there for two parters or two plus parters aren't possible.

[@skeletor8951]

Cathy Weseluck has a really nice Spike singing voice. We definitely need more Spike songs in the future. And honestly, I've gotta say that this episode had one of the coolest moments for Spike in the series. Hearing the determination in his voice when he decides to stand up for Thorax just so incredibly cool. I really think that this episode wouldn't been absolutely excellent if it was a double-episode. I wish that they would do two-parters from time to time mid-season.

[@darkdragon7210]

This as well as several others could have Benefitted GREATLY from being 2 parters!!!

[@sonicgen20]

Seems a bit unfair to be comparing this with a 1 hour and 48 minute movie with a 150 million dollar budget. Of course it's gonna have the upper hand on a standard 22 minute tv episode. I just find it a bit unjust to be comparing movies with episodes, perhaps if you compared it with a 22 minute episode of a different tv series episode because then we'd know that it can be done on those limitations.

[@jonbilgutay2]

So far Spike has befriended Ember, Thorax, and then Discord and Big Mac next week. In order, I would say they represent kindness, Loyalty, generosity, magic and honesty respectively. Spike just needs to add a funny friend to his click and they can wield the Elements of Harmony; that would be an interesting season finale.

[@ryancarson6962]

So loyalty to spike , magic to discord, and honestly to Big Mac. So what about generosity and kindness. Ember is a great character but one don't think she has a enough amount of either element to say and thorax is very bland to say the least and he doesn't express enough emotion,to say for sure.

[@uberdueler2990]

Thorax is basically the changeling equivalent of Fluttershy. He can be kindness.

[@booklover4330]

Thorax is generosity; I can see that. Also that finale would be awesome if something like that happened, but of course they got rid of the elements, but something where the mane six doesn't save the day, but someone else does would be fantastic! I mean, they did that with the season 5 premiere, why can't they do that with a finale? XD.

[@booklover4330]

But, I can also see him as Kindness. Spike loyalty, Big Mac Honesty, Thorax Kindness, Discord Magic, so that would leave Ember as Generosity.

[@hariman7727]

Why isn't Discord representing laughter?

[@XainRussell]

I felt that this episode was a major disappointment. The moral of "everyone can change" feels lacking when Thorax was nice to begin with. It would have been better if he'd started out as mean, but was aware of how mean he was, and wanted to try and prove that he could overcome his upbringing. As it is, he's boring, and not what I would have wanted out of a friendly changeling. The interactions with the guards, the exposition dumps at the beginning, and the inclusion of Starlight even when she didn't add anything, all felt pointless and took up time that could have been spent building Thorax as more than just a milquetoast outlier of his own kind. And that damn song, ughhh. I'm really getting annoyed by this trend of episodes ending on a song that instantly fixes all the problems and wraps it all up nice and neatly. It takes away all the tension, it feels like a cop out, a short cut that replaces actual and fulfilling resolution. "Life is not some cartoon musical where you sing a little song, and your insipid dreams magically come true!"

[@oscarstainton]

I was thinking about that Chief Bogo speech from Zootopia as well! I wanted to love the song, but it's placement was ultimately questionable, even accepting the oceanic divide in time, resources and writing staff between a major motion picture by Disney and a 20 minute episode by toy company Hasbro. As for the resolution, I really hope that if this episode DOES play into the finale in someway, they should be shown to be a certain degree of mistrust between the Crystal Empire citizens and Thorax; i.e. one song doesn't fix everything. It wouldn't be any different from Twilight struggling to fly after the Season 3 finale or Discord being mischievous post-"Keep Calm and Flutter On" or characters periodically reminding Starlight of her past evil deeds.

[@gutsmasterson2488]

*Facepalm* Why is it every single time I see any your KZbin comment it seems like you're expressing some form of negativity even though I feel like you are a very positive and uplifting person?

[@The0ptimus]

Yeah, unfortunately, a 22 minute running time doesn't allow for much time to let a resolution feel realistic and fulfilling :/

[@KurokiTea]

I don't think that was the lesson at all, the lesson was #notallchangelings for one and the other is that status shouldn't really matter when it comes to defending someone, you should just do it.

[@ryancarson6962]

+Razor Reviews dude the song was literally called "a changeling can change" so they clearly didn't think through about this.

[@dracohalo117]

This episode had me split, on the one hand, it shows Changelings in a different light, but that isn't necessarily a good one. The way they were portrayed in their original showing, was that they attacked Canterlot for the sake of their own survival, but the way that this episode portrays them via Flashback, paints them as wicked and evil creatures, with Thorax being the exception. I don't know how to view that, in a way, it does tackle prejudice, but at the same time, encourages a sort of 'Not like the rest of them' mentality, which could encourage prejudice to the whole, while 'tolerating' the exception. I think it would have been better had the writers not portrayed Changelings as so dark and evil, kept much of their race and origins still a mystery, show Thorax growing up, but show him being less of the exception, and show just his personal story, excluding the 'viciousness' of the other changelings, to perhaps imply that the other changelings have more distinct personalities of their own. It wasn't a bad episode, but I would not say it was a good episode, it tried tackling a big issue, but went about it that villainized an entire race, while offering an exception to the rule that does not necessarily encourage others to try and mend the bridges between the two.

[@Sparkle5fanboy]

When watching this episode I never thought about it leading up to a grander plot-line. But now I do. I liked seeing a perspective from a changeling, an outsider in his society like spike in both the pony community and dragon community. It was also nice seeing a new male character. This episode makes me think that spike may have a grand role in the season finale. Since he's already been seeing helping dragon kind and now changelings plus he has a seat at the cutie map this makes me think that he might have something to due with the finale. I think it won't be just changelings but perhaps an event that effects all of equestria/ the whole world(where other races live but aren't specifically named) and different races will come together and clash over whatever it is that brought them their. I would really like some help to investigate this further!

[@SquidofBaconator]

I didn't think the song was bad...

[@CODandponies]

thought the episode was OK, the song...just didn't need to be there. That being said, i don't think it's really fair to compare it to Zootopia when Zootopia had an hour and a half and Disney behind it to a 22 min. cartoon on Saturday morning. that being said, great review. I hope one day the writers find a way to avoid the exposition dumps. i get that people may not have seen other episodes but man they get old.

[@captainabsolution]

With how they show Thorax changeing into an rock, I believe it showed how all those changelings in "An Canterlot Wedding" seem to appear out of nowhere , for all we know they were disguise as rocks and/or tree. Or maybe I am over thinking it.

[@captainabsolution]

* changing I hate using my phone to post comments. :/

[@joshuahicks7798]

That ending tho. When he brought it up I was like, “Oooooooooh!!!! HE JUST WENT THERE. HE JUST WENT THERE.

[@TheAvizanski]

when dr wolf calls something cringeworthy that says something.

[@Shadowstorm612]

So was that thorax at the 100th episode wedding?

[@dallred87]

I looked through the comments to see if someone else had the same idea. Finally someone did. I totally think that Thorax was that same changeling. There was a lot of love there and he did get flung far away at the end of the wedding. Perhaps he was someone that Cranky met

[@HendorneEndohRoth]

Actually, they're different changelings... I saw a comparison image before, and their backs have different colours Edit: Here's a link to it derpiboo.ru/1229566?scope=scpe9e1823b772c727c8e7dc51ee7b8fa6f4bc604500

[@PsychoVdude13x]

I heard somewhere that the changeling at the wedding was named Kevin.

[@KurokiTea]

That was a fan fiction

[@taylorh1872]

No they have different colors on there backs. People like to call the one at Cranky's wedding Kevin the Friendly Changling. (Which I like to call him too.)

[@hariman7727]

Why does everyone hate the song so much? ...Also, Boulder might be a rock shaped changeling who is nice. But he could also be that odd mimic species introduced in the comics. Both are equally unlikely.

[@benlecoyte322]

DrWolf I respect your opinion, I really do but I believe that the song was a great addition to the episode not just because it was Spikes first solo song in the show but it also gave us a chance to feel how Spike was feeling and how he feels like more of a hero to Thoarx and how he is standing up to him rather than being the hero of the crystal ponies

[@krystalendermalie1361]

Dr wolf called the finale.

[@HitMan0199]

+DrWolf001, when I was watching the episode I thought: "Holy crap, this episode may be a precursor for the season finally, in which Flurry Heart gets ponynap by Chrysalis and the Changelings, and Thorax and Spike gets blamed for the ponynapping happening, because Thorax is a Changeling, and Spike advocated for Thorax". I don't know id any one also thought bout this, but can anyone also tell me if they had the same thought as I did.

[@ohno8398]

I want that. I want that so badly.

[@HitMan0199]

Well, I was somewhat right (not really) on my season finally prediction. Oh well, I guess their is always next time

[@ryliebold5803]

I personally love this episode because it reminds me of how I was in spike's spot once and also thorax's spot as well being able to connect with both sides was the best part of this episode for me

[@MsTanvar]

I love the little nod at the end to boulder. It would also show that there are more defectors who want a friendship too.

[@shadowldrago]

This was a good episode, however, I agree with you in the sense that it did feel rather rushed. As much as I love MLP, the fact that it's limited to 22 minutes kinda limits it and makes otherwise incredible premises feel rushed.

[@phantomtenebres7319]

What you said about Spike having to choose between being the hero everypony build him up to be or be the hero he needed to be. I honest didn't catch that on my first viewing of the episode, which would explain why he didn't stand up for Thorax when he was discovered and accused of being a spy. Thanks for the realization Dr. Wolf.

[@unseenphantomamvsytp2186]

5:50 That's the same music Lily uses for glass of water lol

[@Lars_E_Mou]

The biggest question is still remains in me, for the episode is... Did Thorax finally got something to eat? Or did he died of hunger after the episode? That will be mean. D: My answer will be that Twilight and Candace, can do their "Love" spell to feed him. This spell could be in good use afterall. Even for a good changeling.

[@Nazo-kage]

The funny thing is I have been wondering why the changelings haven't shown up until now in regards to the Crystal Empire it just sounds like the perfect place for them to hide out dig tunnels under the whole place and you'll have a massive hive that feeds every single changeling in it because of the crystal hearts energy that radiates from the empire so long as they don't do something stupid to mess it up they could have a indefinite source of food

[@tails1152]

Oh, oh! IDEA! Okay, we've been getting mentions of Griffonstone developing as both a country and friendship wise, so what about this: The Changelings take notice of a strong, and vulnerable, country forming. They decide to slowly sneak their ranks in as the country is growing. Once they've worked their way to the top, keep their presence their secret. What starts the plot is a few reports of Changelings being spotted around the area, thus leading to the rest of the story. The Changelings could have been there for a while, and the reports could have been filed around the same time Thorax appeared in the Crystal Empire, making it look like he was a diversion from the actual invasion.

[@rickyrehbein9241]

Shining: There's no such thing as a good changeling. Me: He says to a dragon.

[@rickxhoshinji]

The theory at the end is plausible. I believe if this was made into a two-parter, the story would flow much better.

[@JCBro-yg8vd]

Yeah, they could've cut either of the previous two episodes and given this a two parter. It seems like this is the second episode in the season to have the same problem of time constraints due to not being a two parter. Seriously, as great as the two parter openers and finales are, I don't think it would be so demanding to occasionally give other episodes the same attention.

[@SilentGlaceon94]

I like the idea of the episode, and Thorax. My main issue is..everything was too rushed. There wasn't enough time to allow things to digest. In the end, I somewhat enjoyed the episode, and I'll have to agree with a certain Canadian pegasus, musical numbers take away so much from the episode, unless if necessary.

[@mdwtiger1]

I agree. This is another story that would work much better if it had 2+ parts. Also the song IMO wasn't cringe worthy, it was just....ok ,not special, not bad, just ok.

[@creativohugo]

this

[@silverdragonwolf1]

I think it would be an interesting plot point to have that be the case for boulder, made even more amusing by Maud saying she already knew but not really caring about something like that.

[@angeygirl]

the baby Changlings are adorable!

[@bubblybop4064]

That moment when you realise you like a song and everyone else hates it 😳

[@TimeTravelMaster]

I really think especially after seeing this episode we're going to have a return of Queen Chrysalis and her Changeling army in the season 6 finale. I feel like it's a done deal at this point, and I can't wait!! :-)

[@taddad2641]

I think it is damn clear that they are doing something with thorax appearing here, and what was revealed bout da changlings. They had him pop up at the beginning of the premiere after all, if WAAAY off in the background. However i guess the question is whether or not the conflict occurs THIS season or not. Uts strange but this season has two potential factors for a finale. One dealing with starlight and one dealing with thorax, chryasalis, and little flurry heart. They may well try to execute all three stories at once. OR it is possible they will stick to one or another and continue on next season, which seems more and more likely to happen as there is no indications that this is the end. So what are we gonna get? Changelings, starlight, or both? We gotta wait and see

[@TimelessOne123]

My money's on the Windigo returning, and the ponies of Equestria needing the help of all allied races (old and new) to fight them off (or befriending them?) - and somehow Starlight is involved in a big way.

[@TorridPrime217]

nuvaprime.deviantart.com/journal/The-Times-They-Are-A-Changeling-Indeed-629557877

[@johnneal3319]

I would agree with you on the bit of exposition - if this were the season premiere. However, I felt that it was much more necessary AND put forward in this episode than the opening two-parter.

[@idamarietidemann1527]

Just wondering Doc,what program do you use to make your review videos?

[@DRWolf001]

iMovie.

[@idamarietidemann1527]

+DRWolf001 Oh cool thanks Doc.

[@stickmananimationmlpxevery7170]

+DRWolf001 can you tell me how to use iMovies

[@IBAIPshow]

Spike: The Original Avenger. The only thing I wanted more was the development of Thorax. Get to know his story - how, where, what and why. The song fell flat but Thorax making his own argument would have been more effective in my opinion. A Return of the Changelings as a whole would be awesome. And love the ending of the review, made me smile /)

[@trueyoshim]

The episode had a good plot, but their were a few things wrong, and good, about how it was delivered. We also know a few more things from this episode. Like how changeling magic works. A theory for that could be its connected to their hearts pulse. While we haven't seen a drone changeling use more than its transformation spell so this can't be confirmed, but Chrysalis's magic had a steady pulse in 4:11-4:14 so this might be true, at least for Changeling Queens. This episode also brings the fact at how a changeling is born, they are in fact born from an egg, like insects. They also have a cute little Larva outfit that just looks adorable on a baby Changeling. Also, Changeling eggs in the air? While they may fall to help the little changeling hatch, I can't help but to see this as a safety hazard. What if they get out of the egg as it falls or before it falls? I feel they could get very hurt. What this flashback also brings to fanfic writers, not all changelings are born bad! Most of them are from this scene, but who's to say others aren't good? Lots of eggs were unhatched in there. And finally, changelings aren't restricted to just animate objects! As seen (and theorized by Dr.Wolf) they can become as small as they like and still be anything. This could bring a lot more than just disguises to the Changeling table. If Chrysalis used this to her advantage, or even Equestria, they could have a spy where ever they want. They could be a bee, they could be a rock in a garden, they could be a piece of Celestia's necklace for all we know. I feel as though I've gone on long enough. But these theories could very well be true, who knows, maybe the changelings already have infiltrated Canterlot. (If this could get recognized by Dr.Wolf I will be very happy. And I'd also like to ask a few questions on Skype or the likes. Thanks for reading!)

[@Riptide555]

I admit I was worried they would go for the old trope that all the changelings are just misunderstood, instead Thorax is the typical odd one out. Being the way he is it makes sense he would run away from the hive since if/when Crysalis found out about his leanings she would probably use him as a different sort of infiltrator or just do away with him right away . With Thorax among them the ponies have a unique chance to learn more about the changelings, their way of life, how they think and new ways of detecting them. If Flurry Hearts's crystaling is able to attract the attention of a single way-ward changeling odds are good the rest of them will eventually notice as well. With regards to the ponies having a spell to reveal the changelings consider the fact that the bugs are very magical themselves and their very nature is imitation and infiltration, so in order to be effective any kind of detection spell would need to cover an area and be able to suppress their shape changing ability. Otherwise you'd have to go around and blast every individual pony, item and rock on the off-chance it was a changeling and even if you clear something a changeling could just see them do it then trade places with the "cleared" item. Stands to reason if they could do that it would have been a huge priority for Equestria to develop that kind of magic, but as we've seen in previous episodes inventing new spells is not easy and can lead to some unforeseen consequences like swaping out a pony's fate or changing the future.......or turn a frog into a sentient orange.

[@EdgardoJCruz-dk5kv]

This episode just cements my idea of having as an ambassador. I mean he has mended social relations left and right this season. The Crystal Empire to an extent, Starlight, Dragon Lord Ember, Big Mac, and now Thorax. Plus if Dungeons and Discord is any indication Discord too. This has felt more a Spike centric season lately. In a good way.

[@adamcheck4941]

Spike reveals he has a honorable personality and a beautiful singing voice in this episode

[@EaglesMan710]

I saw an image online of Spike's crystal statue, with the word "Traitor" spray painted all over it, an obvious reference to Batman V Superman. I would actually like it if that happened in the show, it would show that not everyone is willing to give Thorax a chance, doesn't believe any changeling can be good at all, and it would potentially hurt Spike's image in the Crystal Empire. It would make for an interesting story.

[@larkspur1st168]

well whenever they do continue this story im sure it will be awsome! they may put it in as a finaly, or just another episode, but what i am sure of is that they will continue it. well from what we've seen from Trixy showing up this season, and Gilda showing up last season.

[@wwelovr29]

Hey doc, why not make amwdrw, with spike and thorax?

[@ShatoraDragondore]

The Maud idea you put forth is compleing even if you meant it as a joke

[@zacharymoore4559]

what is this episode called so I can see it

[@MrKilljay]

Glad I'm not the only one who thought this episode was really rushed, especially towards the end, it definitely needs a follow-up. Your idea of Thorax and Spike having a large role at the season finale sounds amazing! It'll be a breath of fresh air from the Mane Six always saving everyone, plus it holds up the current theme of disrupting the status quo.

[@johnowlgem9264]

well I can see the possibility of future episodes thorax did say he was drawn to the crystal empire so that means that the other changelings and queen Chrysalis could be drawn to it as well so that could mean future episodes and a future episode could have queen Chrysalis find out about thorax and his friendship with the crystal empire and use that to try another takeover with something like either thorax has to choose between friends and family or possibly some plot device that says that queen Chrysalis can control the other changelings to some extent and force them to do what she wants.

[@fishboio9159]

What episode and season was it? I haven't seen it yet and it looks interesting

[@gamerarts3386]

I loved the episode and the song I fell in love with it, changeling are my favorite species in the mlp universe. I loved this episode.

[@Bownimations01]

Honestly, I liked the song ^^' But maybe I just liked the vocals, melodies, and Spike bringing up his heroic title. I love the "Would you say I'm a hero? Glorious and brave? If I told you something you wouldn't believe? That sometimes I'm scared and I make mistakes and I'm not so heroic, it seems." or "If day can turn to night, and dark turn to light, why can't we believe a changeling can change?" I dunno what it is. I love the lyrics and they really hit home ^^' Maybe I'm just proud of Spike for going from a baby dragon who could hardly spell to a more mature dragon that knows what is right and what risks need to be taken.

[@carlbloke8797]

Auria_Autumn same

[@matthewpalumbo3934]

Excellent point on how far more can be explored through building a bond / story arc with Spike and Thorax. Even if they merely make mention in future episodes of how they visit each other, communicate on their experiences, etc. would certainly help further develop what certainly has a lot of potential for two very unique, non-pony characters.I thought it really showed growth for Spike when he realized how he let down Thorax after the changeling accidentally dropped his disguise. It showed a lot of maturity for Spike to go looking for him to not only apologize, but face up to how he knew he should've spoke up earlier instead of leaving poor Thorax to be chased out of the Crystal Empire.This was an episode I felt was great for a young and old audience. It really speaks on accountability along with showing how you shouldn't abandon someone just because they may be unfavorable to the "In-Crowd". It's so easy to give into remaining popular, or not wanting to be "The Outcast". However, true friends and family will stick by you no matter what others think.

[@sadlobster1]

I really like this episode because it brings to mind an old riddle. What's the surest way to defeat your enemy? The answer being...to make them your friend

[@SuperWorldJumper]

What was that song right before the x-file theme?

[@legitflyinggoldfish2595]

What's the name of the episode

[@Brony22]

The Times They Are a Changeling

[@GallopCrush]

look at the title of the video easy

[@dragon509100]

dr. wolf is it possible that changlings and crystal ponies once live together?

[@warrmalaski8570]

did we get that changeling or a nother

[@animegx45]

Since we now have a freaking changeling hanging out with ponies, I can't imagine this being the last of Thorax. And as the exposition brought up, the changelings now have a good reason to come back for round 2.

[@genius11433]

What was the second-to-last piece of music (the one before the X-Files theme)?

[@genius11433]

Never mind: it's Discord's "Glass of Water" song

[@killgora1]

I want to know if the Changlings bleed acid. Because there are some real chances for some xenomorph homage here.

[@Phyramar]

I'm gonna say they did a pretty good job considering the time they had to work with.

[@BNuts]

I remember thinking "really? You're going to sing _now_?" Anyone going to mention how Sunburst was holding Flurry Heart in her buggy the whole episode? It's not as impressive as Armour's and Cadence's city-wide shield, to be sure, but we know Sunburst isn't a great spellcaster, so he's obviously been improving since we saw him last. And yes, I thought about Boulder and Tom both. And Twilicane.

[@FanOfManyShows]

I feel just the more reason to keep my Changeling OC after watching this. With the part of it feeling rushed, can I just mention the fact season 6 has had the shortest hiatus out of the whole series, and as a result may have pushed the writers to rush a story in order to complete it in time?

[@shadowwriter4538]

There's another part to this; they can't and won't just leave this episode as is. I can agree that it is rushed but that happens when you only have 22 minutes to do everything like that. I think they'll continue this somewhere along the lines but that may be later on in the season 6 finally or during season 7.

[@Beam3178]

A fanfic I read nailed the whole egg hatching scene perfectly. When I saw this episode, I immediately thought that the writers had read some of the stories people have written

[@shingshongshamalama]

I'm so disappointed that they couldn't be brave enough to make the changeling someone we already actually knew. A pre-established character suddenly revealing they were something else all along and dealing with that sudden paradigm shift would have provided so much more space to work with while not requiring the groundwork of bringing in a brand new character.

[@redwallfan123]

I actually got a question for you Dr wolf and the mlp fandom. when thorax said maybe the changlings could love one another and feed that way... or something like that. it got me thinking. Why can't changlings feed off the love from other changlings? it maybe a dumb question to ask but it's what got me thinking from this episode.

[@ohno8398]

I think it's because they're already so aggressive that they don't really 'love' each other.

[@Rixec2]

First Ember and opening communication between dragons and ponies, now Thorax and him wanting to bring friendship back to the Changelings, it seems this season Spike is really starting to prove himself as the key dragon needed for opening diplomatic relationships with species typically disconnected from the ponies of Equestria.

[@ryanherron7436]

I feel the plot would be better if starlight became friends with the changeling because of there similar backgrounds , had to hide it, spike found out about it, and had to make the choice to risk his hero status or keep it and send the army after it. But would make the choice to risk his fame

[@ItzzzBeamo]

I think what turned me off the most about the execution was that before, and while Spike was singing, literally everypony was livid at the Changeling, basically even calling for his decapitated head. Once the song ends, and Twilight agrees with Spike, now everypony is suddenly (in relevance to the moral) not INCREDIBLY prejudiced and ignorant to the changeling? I'm not saying they should still hate the Changeling, but I am saying they should have responded with cautious optimism. Something along the lines of. "We can see that you, Thorax, are not intending to cause the Crystal Empire any harm, so you are welcome within it's land. We want to learn more about your kind, as I'm sure you wish to learn more about ours." without the whole "WE SUDDENLY LOVE YOU!"

[@jaketucker2559]

I think there is something big that's gonna happen, remember we not only have gryphons and the yaks, but possibly dragons and changelings. Something's going down I can feel it...

[@ErikButterworth]

Sorry if I have not posted my thoughts on this episode yet, Dr. Wolf, but I had to give it time to sink in before giving my reply. Though I felt the ending was rushed in how quickly Cadence and Shining Armor came around to accepting Thorax after Twilight did following Spike's heartfelt song, I do wonder if this is setting up something for the Season 6 finale with the return of Queen Chrysalis seeking revenge on Cadence and Shining Armor for her previous defeat at their hooves. Could Thorax be able to provide valuable information on Changelings to better prepare the Crystal Empire for attack? Does Chrysalis even know where Cadence and Shining Armor are living now, or does she still believe they are living in Canterlot? What if Thorax returning to spread the lessons he learned on friendship cause him to provide the critical information Chrysalis needs to launch her revenge plot against Cadence and Shining Armor? Will Prince Rutherford, Gilda, and Dragon Lord Ember be summoned to help stop Chrysalis because of their newfound alliances and friendship with Equestria? I may be waiting until after I watch the Season 6 finale to watch this episode again as I don't want to drive myself crazy with hype until I see the outcome this episode left open for discussion. If it is resolved in the finale at all.

[@MagicMan1_1_1]

I actually also appreciated the guards' competence and zeal, especially as it comes out of a sense of duty to protect their kingdom and Princess, not mean spirited malevolence like so many fanfics do.

[@bradallan9854]

why the elumanarty music at the end doc? good Thierry thow : )

[@rowansteyn8822]

If Boulder is a changeling (and maud knows it) then maud is the top ambassador to changelings (cus' Boulder is a changeling and such) right? she could be the first pony(?) to be devoid of prejudice! (well.. as far as we know). take that as food for thought!

[@DanHeroPhantom]

Josh is banging his head hearing that secret handshake lol

[@barsni4779]

Dr Wolfs theories are always so engaging! Boulder theory is fantastic!

[@Cultono]

*DrWolf*, don't know if you notice this - Thorax's magic color is light blue with soft edges, not the lime green flame version. =)

[@HenBasketFireAlarms]

A four-part story would be cool (2-part finale, & 2-part premiere).

[@GardevoirBoy]

It appears that pet shop has closed for good, wander has wandered into the void, Steven Universe has returned from the darkness, and ponies are outside of the stable to play and have fun.

[@CyrilSmithVA]

I feel like this episode is connected to the season finale. I'm hoping not only for Queen Chrysalis but Sombra as well

[@BryanPurdey]

why was the changeling not Kevin?

[@changelingkingcocoon5029]

The fascinating thing is that my biggest issue with the episode was...the song. It feels like it's just there for the sake of there being a song. But a close second is Thorax' voice. Why isn't it more insect like? I mean, this episode confirmed that the changelings are insect-like. Whether it's a hissing voice, a more throaty raspy voice, or a voice with a distortion affect like Chrysalis' voice (even though the season 5 finale retconned that voice for some reason), I'd expect a changeling's natural voice to sound more insect-like.

[@ohno8398]

My theory is he was trying as hard as possible to be 'normal' even in his changeling form.

[@ShadwSonic]

Things we know about Changelings now that we didn't before... 1. Changelings are completely capable of speech in their undisguised forms. 2. All Changelings, not just Chrysalis, have the capacity for full sapience and free will. 3. Changelings, surprisingly, CAN turn into inanimate objects, or alter their size significantly. 4. Changelings hatch from eggs in a larval form, and one that's MUCH smaller than a foal, thus further reinforcing the "insect" part of the "insectile pony" image. 5. Merely being in the presence of a large amount of love energy can make them aggressive, though such a reaction CAN be controlled given time and effort. Anything else that I'm missing?

[@davideggleston4793]

I am fascinated by the development we have seen in Spike's character. From learning friendship within the ponies as an outsider. Then learning his own kind were not all bad, remember his first encounter with other dragons was not a good one so he had plenty of reason to feel all dragons were bad. Now we see him taking those lessons and bringing in the outsider and showing that despite what ponies may know of changelings from past interactions that they could be different. I believe they have done a very plausible development over a long string of episodes and I commend the writers for that. Dr Wolf aren't you and many other critics always asking the writing staff to engage in character development not just one off stories. I would certainly welcome a continence of the changeling story. But I can also see the changlings as a strong viable source for the writers to have pulled from for the development of Spike's character. What other character in MLP offers this potential so well? There are countless episodes along the way I would love to see more time with. This is certainly among them as I despise the "song makes it all better" solutions. I don't think I have ever seen someone break into a song in real life and fix all the problems. But it is a classic shortcut in the world of entertainment for time shortages. We must face the fact MLP is a 30 min show (less when you factor in commercials) I for one do not want it to become a "To be continued" series where I am left hanging much of the time because writers were unable to fit things into a single episode. I hate expose-says, especially when I already saw the story it is covering. But the Brony community is constantly growing bringing in new people. Perhaps rather then complaining about the rushed moments to catch up the outsider. We should be commending the writing staff for making an episode where they took the time to ensure an outsider could understand the storyline.