TIME SKIP!!!! | My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic Season 9 Episode 26 FINALE REACTION
Added 2024-12-29 21:59:01 +0000 UTC
Comments
Understandable... 🤣
DeViruZz.eXe
2025-01-06 23:06:47 +0000 UTCNaturally you had to outdo me huh? I don't even feel like reading all that lol
sjones17515
2025-01-06 22:57:30 +0000 UTCThere are indeed some interesting topics that I would have liked to see, yeah.
DeViruZz.eXe
2025-01-06 22:52:56 +0000 UTC@sjones: huge thanks to you for mentioning these sjones, you made it a lot easier for me, so I didnt have to go in detail to that :)
DeViruZz.eXe
2025-01-06 22:51:38 +0000 UTCWell, we are here... at the last episode of the series... One thing to note, sjones17515 already did a lot of work in elaborating on the most interesting things this episode had to offer, so I wont get much into detail there 😁 - so, thank you @sjones17515! 😄 - Some notes/thoughts/facts: - Hm, neat sculpture of the Mane 6... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/3/30/Creatures_around_statue_of_the_Mane_Six_S9E26.png Your freak-out was amazing! Yes... we got a time-skip! Future Spike is an advisor and friendship ambassador, and grew quite a bit... He looks slightly different to how he thinks he would look in his imagination in S1E19: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/95/Spike_dreaming_about_being_manly_to_save_Rarity_S1E19.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/0a/Grown-up_Spike_entering_the_throne_room_S9E26.png The now Equestrian leader Twilight grew quite a bit... she resembles Celestia's magnificent stature and wavy mane and tail which seems to come with being reborn as an alicorn... - And yes Ed I love her design: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/c/ce/Princess_Twilight_%22that%27s_why_I_picked_you%22_S9E26.png Gallus is now the Captain of the Royal guard - cool! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/f/f4/Gallus%2C_captain_of_the_royal_guard_S9E26.png And a new character appears: Luster Dawn https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/5/58/Luster_Dawn_%22I%27ve_enjoyed_every_moment%22_S9E26.png She seems to be Twilights student like Twilight was to Celestia. Luster Dawn: "I was hoping to set up an independent course of study." - hm... where did we hear that before? (Twilight in "EQG: Friendship Games") Luster Dawn: "I'm not so sure. Friendship looks like more of a distraction than anything else and ultimately a waste of time." - Oh Twilight, what the hell are you teaching her? 😅 The amount of times Spike is saying "WHAT!" in the opening is way too hilarious! Luster Dawn: "I know you and your friends accomplished a lot together, but that was so long ago, and as far as I can see, you rule by yourself now." - Hm... she is ruling by herself now? I thought they're in this together 😮 Luster Dawn: "And I don't think there's anything wrong with that. In fact, I think it's better. Plus, if friendships ultimately fade, why even make them in the first place?" - Ooh... now we get where this is heading to! Future Twilight Sparkle: "You know what, Luster Dawn? You're right." - To cite Spike here: WHAT!?! Yeah I agree with you... a special opening would have been cool... The stained glas windows are interesting: https://buffy.mlpforums.com/monthly_2024_08/EHWtUL0WsAEmbPJ.jpeg.deebdf98c3d75a22ad3abd6dadaf8b53.jpeg - The window on the right shows the Legions defeat, that we know of... - The window in the middle is even more interesting as it shows a grown up Flurry Heart inheriting the Crystal Heart at her coronation and thus is now the reigning over the Crystal Empire... https://buffy.mlpforums.com/monthly_2024_08/EHWtUL0WsAEmbPJ(1)1(11).jpeg.8f0a9439299a3b5d1d4ada77a90aeaf5.jpeg - But the most surprising one is the window to the left: It looks like The Young 6 had won a fight against a villain of their own, so far so good, but if you look closely at the background, it gets really interesting: It looks like the foe was a flaming rhino sorts of being that lives in space, this is indicated by the young 6 who are surrounded by planets and stars... this is absolutely wild... 😅 https://buffy.mlpforums.com/monthly_2024_08/EHWtUL0WsAEmbPJ(1)1.jpeg.ee2a35dd24ebafb851f24c212c2cd9ee.jpeg - But wait, there is even a fourth one that's only partly seen: https://buffy.mlpforums.com/monthly_2024_08/EHWtUL0WsAEmbPJ.jpeg.edd7e9a20ad2b0c6d6513cdb852aead5.jpeg - If you look closely, it resembles one of the CMC's Sweetie Belle and we can assume, that the others aren't missing on it. It seems they accomplished a feat of their own... as to what it is, is a figment of our imagination 😅 Future Twilight Sparkle: "Friendships take work, and there's no guarantee they'll last. They can be complicated. They can be messy. And they never go the way you plan. Friendship is a hard thing to navigate. I remember the first time I realized it might not last forever." - true... it is hard work and sometimes you even drift apart... 😣 And here we are: back at before Twilights coronation. The newspaper has some interesting pages in it: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/9d/Villains_and_Rara_on_newspaper%27s_front_page_S9E26.png - The Legion of doom in a stone statue that's somewhere placed... - But there is also Applejacks friend Rara, who is doing a concert! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/d/d2/Mane_Six_fighting_villains_in_the_newspaper_S9E26.png - That's some fierce looking Twilight... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/5/5c/Derpy%2C_Lyra%2C_Bon_Bon%2C_and_villains_in_newspaper_S9E26.png - Derpy is baking and selling muffins, thats a nod to the fandom! - Lyra and Bon Bon getting married! Great! 🥰 - Interesting though, everything written in the show isn't readable or the names are replaced by Cutie Marks - except here... its even readable 🤔 https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/3/38/Cranky_Doodle_and_Twilight_in_the_newspaper_S9E26.png - Cranky doodle has an article here... and Twilights coronation is explained beforehand? Twilights insecurity shows as she is afraid of leaving Ponyville and leaving all her friends behind, but Spike as her sibling, friend and indeed a good advisor suggests to her, that she should talk about her friends about it... But these are busy with their own preparations and distract themselves, as they are concerned about the same topic, but just wont admit it and ignore Twilights concerns at first... Pinkie Pie obviously is responsible for all the Galas in Canterlot, nice! 😅 Gummy responsible for fireworks?... We all know how well that's gonna end! Fluttershy: "But I can't imagine anypony's more excited than you. Moving to Canterlot. Being crowned. I can't think of a single bad thing about any of it!" - interestingly worded... there seems to be more, like she is also reassuring herself. Rarity: "Darling, change is an integral part of fashion. I myself am considering opening boutiques for non-ponies." - great! However I have never seen any creature else wearing clothes, aside from Diamond Dogs and Abyssinians - might be a precedence for that? Also... Dragons would need fireproof ones and Changelings change shape... this might be interesting challenges... The spiders are weaving glowing threats. Neat. Ed: "Her friends are not worried about it..." - 👀😅 After Twilights outburst of emotion it turns out, it painfully gets clear that her friends indeed care but just distracted themselves with their work or convinced themselves that everything would be ok... And what follows is one of the most heart wrenching moments of the show as they each tell their concerns and dread the change... but Twilight is getting over it, as she knows how her friends feel the same... it was such a bittersweet and wholesome moment... I literally cried with them the first few times... - The last time this happened was in "Tanks for the Memory" when they all also cried with Rainbow Dash... Aww... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/b/b2/Mane_Six_in_a_very_sad_group_hug_S9E26.png But Twilight nearly misses the train and they all get late to the coronation. Poor Starlight got thrown aside by a herd of maincast-ponies stampede... 😅 https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/9a/Starlight_Glimmer_looking_very_dizzy_S9E26.png - nice dance... 😅 Oh look who is here: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/b/b5/Chefs_making_food_in_the_royal_kitchen_S9E26.png - Rumble from the CMC camp episode! Cooking! Hm... Applejack was right about Big Mac... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/8/8f/Big_McIntosh_grinning_nervously_S9E26.png Twilight Sparkle: "Well, it could always be worse." - WHYYY!? Twilight... you definitely should know better! Curse you all sheep's on he traintrack!! Not again! - There are a lot of creatures attending: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/e/e9/Creatures_gathered_outside_Canterlot_Castle_S9E26.png - The young six: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/d/d9/Young_Six_and_friends_cheer_at_coronation_S9E26.png - The dragons with that one red Dragon from Season 1 in "Dragonshy" and Pricess Amber: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/99/Ember_and_dragons_roaring_happily_S9E26.png - Minuette, Twinkleshine, Prince Rutherford, The Hoofields and McColts (S5), Gilda, Capper, Lemon Heart, Zecora, Tempest, the Changelings, Thorax and his Brother Pharynx, Derpy, Dusty Pages and Twilights parents: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/6/61/Twilight%27s_parents_and_friends_at_the_coronation_S9E26.png - Sassy saddles, The Hyppogriffs and more importantly, Rose and Dr. Whooves who are holding hoofs and Moondancer: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/f/fc/Ponies%2C_changelings%2C_and_Hippogriffs_at_coronation_S9E26.png - The Pillars, Discord, Shining Armor with liquid pride and Cadence + Flurry Heart: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/3/32/Cadance%2C_Shining%2C_Flurry%2C_and_Discord_at_coronation_S9E26.png - Kirins, Quibble Pants with his Wife and daughter, A.K. Yearling aka Daring Do, Burnt Oak, Babs Seed, Tree Hugger, Zephyr Breeze, Cranky and Mathilda: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/99/Lots_of_side_characters_watch_the_ceremony_S9E26.png - A distraught BigMac and his comforting wife Sugar Belle as well as and the rest of the Apple Family, Lyra and Bon Bon, Trixie and Sunburst and the Kirin Autumn Blaze! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/d/d2/Audience_ponies_looking_very_confused_S9E26.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/5/5a/Rarity_tearfully_smiling_at_Twilight_S9E26.png - This looks good! The crown merging was a nice touch! And despite all the blunders led to a catastrophic coronation... Princess Luna: "Hmm. Close enough." - 🤣 Luster Dawn: "Okay, I get it now. Your coronation was such a disaster that you and your friends never really recovered, and that's why you all drifted apart." Future Spike: "Well, you're half right." - That suspense... And now we get to see what happened to all of twilights friends since then... - Pinkie got together with Cheese Sandwhich and they have a filly "Li'l Cheese"! - Maybe Rarity was in Yak Yakistan because of Yona as she was seen in her boutique. Rarity might even have expanded to there..? Future Rainbow Dash: "Maybe we could get to places on time if you let me do some of the chores instead of always doing everything yourself." Future Applejack: "Maybe I would if you did them the right way. Oh. Sorry. We're not the last ones, are we?" - AJ and RD seem to have chores together and its heavily implied that they are together... - Fluttershy comes out of a portal to Discords dimension... with a care package from Discord... Yeah we get it, they're both together! ... the coronation turned out well enough in the end... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/e/e0/Twilight_sits_exhausted_at_her_friends%27_table_S9E26.png - That's one beat Twilight 😅 But they can all laugh about it. And a special gift from everyone... a book of all their memories... The council of friendship! A great first decree! They are all meeting every moon at least once. The formerly royal sisters step down officially. They are retiring to Silver Shoals, the same place as Dusty Pages was... Yes... a nice callback to Season 1 Twilight... but Luster Dawn finally realizes the advantages of friendship and Twilight sends her to Ponyville... - Will the cycle continue..? Song time! - "The Magic of Friendship Grows" - A great last song to remember, showing us a lot of what happened with most of our beloved characters we got to know during the series: - Grown up Diamond Tiara with Silver Spoon and Twist: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/e/ed/Ponies_interacting_in_future_Ponyville_S9E26.png - Derpy, Lyra and Bon Bon: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/7/79/Older_Derpy_flies_over_future_Ponyville_S9E26.png - Cheese Sandwich, a huge Gummi and The cake twins! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/5/58/Pinkie_and_her_family_outside_Sugarcube_Corner_S9E26.png The School of Friendship, now with Starlight as Headmare, aswell as Sunburst as vice head-stallion and a grown up Silver Stream: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/0f/Luster_Dawn_meeting_Starlight_and_Sunburst_S9E26.png - Trixie seems to be an advisor? of sorts and works also at school: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/7/7d/Counselor_Trixie_with_young_griffon_student_S9E26.png - After we have already seen the CMC grown up, they're even teaching here at school: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/c/cf/Older_Crusaders_welcome_a_griffon_to_class_S9E26.png - Grown up Ocellus and Smolder! They also seem to work as teachers here: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/95/Older_Smolder_using_a_sextant_S9E26.png - Big Mac and Sugar Belle do also have a kid, in the background you can see Winonas descendants: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/a/a2/Luster_Dawn_meets_Big_McIntosh%27s_family_S9E26.png - The first interspecies couple, Yona and Sandbar who come out of Rarity's boutique: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/5/53/Luster_Dawn_meets_older_Yona_and_Sandbar_S9E26.png - Angels Bunny's descendance: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/9/98/Luster_Dawn_meets_Angel_Bunny%27s_family_S9E26.png/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1000?cb=20191103202548 ♪ Oh, and how I used to wonder ♪ ♪ What friendship could be! ♪ - nice inclusion and callback to the title song! And lastly we get to see all met characters during the show: https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/a/a4/Supporting_characters_on_red_background_S9E26.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/0e/Supporting_characters_on_orange_background_S9E26.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/0e/Supporting_characters_on_yellow_background_S9E26.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/7/78/Supporting_characters_on_green_background_S9E26.png https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/1/14/Supporting_characters_on_blue_background_S9E26.png Sunset! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/1/13/Twilight_and_characters_on_purple_background_S9E26.png And a new group of interracial friends emerge, great! https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/0/0e/Luster_Dawn_leaving_with_her_friends_S9E26.png Such a great ending picture... https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/mlp/images/e/e6/Mane_Six_and_Spike_on_the_hill_at_sunset_S9E26.png Here is a great Mashup: EQG+MLP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRfGMEgcMSI Here are some good remixes for you: Sawtooth Waves https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prC4klKMuvY JTH Remix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ukxNZ0YMfs loophoof & R3CTIFIER Remix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yO5MgSuA6qc TM Remix https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54q6SetJmrA Well recognized! That closing book at the end was the same book that opened in the S1 premiere now coming full circle. A lot of tears were shed that day... Its the end of an era... I cried a lot... --- = "The last Problem" = This episode truly feels like a heartfelt conclusion to the fourth generation of My Little Pony... In the last episode to the show, we see how Twilight finally steps into her role as the new ruler of Equestria. Her friends stand by her side, continuing to spread the values of harmony, and the epilogue shows them all remaining inseparable well into the future - reminding us that the magic of friendship lives on. What I appreciate most is how the finale highlights Twilight's readiness to lead. Over the course of Season 9, she worked on perfecting her approach to challenges: she had her anxious "Twilighting" moments during the premiere, learned not to chase impossible perfection in "Point of No Return", discovered more about the ruler's role (including delegating tasks) in "Between Dark and Dawn", demonstrated major progress in problem-solving during "Summer Sun Setback", and ultimately overcame the near-destruction of Equestria in the prior two-part finale. Thanks to these experiences, she is finally prepared to take over the reins. Yet there is a bittersweet element to her coronation: Twilight must move to Canterlot, leaving Ponyville behind. Her friends, still occupied with their own responsibilities, can't visit her as often as she would like, and they seem to brush off the discomfort of being separated. Twilight, sensing their avoidance, feels sad that they appear not to share her worries. It's that all-too-familiar feeling of moving away from home and the people we love, stepping alone into an unfamiliar situation. After a deep and sad moment, when they each face these feelings, it turns out her friends do care and in a final moment of the unknown future for their friendship that lies ahead, one of the greatest and wholesome moments occur in a blend of sadness and relief as they each talk about these concerns and what will happen in the future. And they miss their train and each come late to the coronation, leading to some hilariously chaotic events that serve as a fun twist and a narrative to the future plot. It also might have been a twist to the prior princess coronation for Twilight at the end of Season 3 when she became an Alicorn. This time, it feels as though the show deliberately leans into comedy before transitioning us to the future timeline with Luster Dawn, which closes out the story in a hopeful way. Adding to that is Twilight's great first decree to establish the "Council of Friendship", which ensures that Twilight and her friends meet at least once per moon (whatever timeframe that may be 😅). During these gatherings, they discuss upcoming challenges and spend quality time together engaging in various activities. For me, this was a fitting send-off that reaffirmed the show's enduring message: no matter the distance or challenges, true friendship keeps hearts connected. = Times gone by = I was absolutely thrilled by the sudden time-skip that took me - and many fans - by surprise. It was fascinating to see the future of Equestria, where Twilight Sparkle's appearance and role closely mirror Princess Celestia's, and a new character, Luster Dawn, emerges as Twilight's student. She reminds me of both Sunset Shimmer and an early version of Twilight, illustrating how this cyclical journey begins again. It almost feels like a new generation is being introduced. I really appreciate all the changes they wove into this finale and how we get a glimpse of everyone's future lives. There is a wonderful sense of progress in Equestria as it shifts away from isolationism to become a global leader in friendship, forging alliances with dragons, yaks, changelings, griffons, and hippogriffs. Many of these creatures now appear throughout Equestria, especially in Ponyville where the School of Friendship resides, making it more connected than ever. Another point I love is how much the characters have grown, and seeing what they are doing in the future left me with a sense of awe. Every quick look into their lives was so enjoyable, and it was marvelous to witness how far they have come, the bonds they share, and the hints that point to where they might go next. Fans do have questions about certain details, like the nature of other characters' relationships, and what role Celestia and Luna might still play after their retirement. Despite these lingering mysteries, the depiction of Equestria's future felt exciting and full of possibilities, making this episode a memorable and fitting finale. = Open topics = Still, this episode left several important questions unanswered, and I wish it had offered more closure. The most significant loose end for me is the fate of Chrysalis, Tirek, and Cozy Glow. While they were turned to stone in "The Ending of the End" as a form of punishment, it remains unclear whether they will remain imprisoned or eventually be freed, and there is no mention of any potential for their redemption. But however that might be, maybe someday they will be freed like Discord was, while 3 little fillies are arguing with each other... Another aspect that felt overlooked was the broader political landscape in Equestria. The series hinted at relationships with other nations and creatures, but we never got a deeper look at how these alliances might evolve or the challenges they could bring. Sunset Shimmer's brief appearance during Twilight's coronation only raised more questions, since none of her experiences in the human world - central to the "Equestria Girls" series - were addressed in the main show overall or it's conclusion. But it was a nice nod nonetheless. And there was no explanation of who might have taken over Princess Luna's Dreamwalking duties, which felt like a missed opportunity to expand on the legacy of the Royal Sisters, despite the ruling over Equestria. So, who do you think will take over, and how do you think this might play out? Anyway, while I enjoyed seeing the characters' journeys come to a close, I can't help feeling that these and even more unresolved issues - that I didn't address here - should have been given more attention. = Twilights immortality = But with all the good that is displayed here, there is also a haunting question that many fans have dreaded about Twilight: Seeing all of her friends visibly older in the future has sparked the unsettling idea that Twilight might outlive them. Ever since she became an Alicorn in the Season 3 finale, fans have debated whether her transformation implies an extended - or even eternal - lifespan. It's a frightening concept, especially when I think about how she and Spike - who, as a dragon, has a much longer lifespan than ponies - could someday be the last ones left. I've come across many wonderful videos and animations that really bring this heartbreaking possibility to life, and even though Spike's longevity might offer some comfort, it's still deeply unnerving to consider Twilight facing the loss of her other friends one by one. However, the opinions on Twilight's lifespan also vary. Some argue that only Celestia and Luna are truly immortal, while others suggest Twilight's aging may slow instead of stopping altogether. Discord, being immortal himself, would also outlive Fluttershy, which adds another layer of sadness. As a near-almighty being, he might even have the power to prevent her aging or demise, though Fluttershy's respect for the natural circle of life would probably keep her from allowing such intervention. Additionally, we know age-spells exist - like the one Trixie used in "Magic Duel" - but it remains unclear whether they carry a specific cost or limitation. But as sad as it may be to imagine Twilight outliving her friends, it also feels oddly relatable, because in real life someone in a group often lives longer than the others. The first loss would undoubtedly be the hardest for Twilight, but over time she might learn to cope, even if the sadness lingers. While old bonds can change, new ones can form, meaning she won't be completely alone. Being the Princess of Friendship, Twilight will continue building meaningful relationships - never truly replacing her core friends, but finding solace in new connections. There is a genuine sadness in knowing her original companions can't stay with her forever, yet there is also hope in the notion that she will keep valuing each bond and adapt to life's inevitable shifts like Celestia once did. This theme resonates through the finale, which shows how relationships and circumstances can change - even drifting apart sometimes - in a gentle, child-friendly manner without ever explicitly confronting the reality of death. = All the show messages so far... and the message to be taken from here = This episode beautifully captures the essence of everything the show has stood for so far. It has always managed to impart lessons about friendship and community, transcending its original intention as a children's show by also appealing to a mature audience. In doing so, it shaped the outlook of many viewers, young and old alike. Over time, it even inspired entirely new communities that came together under a shared banner of unity and devotion - communities free from the prejudices found elsewhere. Now that we have reached the end of the series that brought so many of us together, the idea that friendships take work and can drift apart seems especially fitting. We find ourselves in a similar situation: with the show concluding, we risk drifting away not only from the imaginative friends we grew to love on screen and now cherished in our hearts, but also from the friends we made within the fandom itself. In many cases, My Little Pony was the binding factor for these communities, and its absence might affect our bonds going forward. Yet the show's greatest gift, and one that still applies, is the reminder that if we truly want to hold on to our friendships, we have to keep working at them. It is a powerful metaphor that echoes well beyond the final episode and to this day it is still maintained by a lot of creators who provide us with further watchable and readable stuff. = The end of an Era and one last song... = The finale of My little Pony felt like the end of an era and delivered one last, heartfelt song that truly stood out. Seeing the closing book - identical to the one first opened in the series premiere - brought an overwhelming sense of nostalgia. It reminded me of everything these nine years meant to me, and I cried a lot thinking back on all the highs and minor hiccups along the way. Sometimes I wish I could go back to 2010 and experience it all again from the start, especially when I remember how the community blossomed around this show. It was a creative haven filled with people making additional content, and it felt so special. Despite the bittersweet nature of the finale, it was a happy conclusion that left a lasting impression on fans like me. I still recall my very first encounter with the show. I was having a truly bad day and needed a distraction, so I ended up watching silly animations on the internet. That's when I stumbled upon an MLP PMV, and even though I initially wasn't sure how to feel about enjoying My Little Pony (since the older generations seemed so off-putting), I was surprised by the modern animation, the adorable/lovely characters and clever writing. Eventually, I got hooked. It also amazed me to discover there were many others out there - Bronies - who shared this newfound passion. Watching the fandom grow was a blast. What really struck me was how this show turned out to be so much more than anyone expected. People called it a kids' show or labeled its adult fans as weird, but no one understood what it actually had to offer unless they set aside their prejudices. It became a feel-good refuge for those dealing with social difficulties or heavy burdens in life. With each season, the characters grew more complex, the worldbuilding became richer, and the creators openly embraced their dedicated adult fanbase. The show's ability to comfort while continuously expanding its lore made it stand out. The final episode was intensely emotional, especially during "The Magic of Friendship Grows". I've always loved the songs in the show, and that one was no exception. The time skip was surprising yet felt right, showing us where all the characters end up in the future. The big group shot at the end, with everyone returning for a final appearance, was phenomenal - seeing Sunset Shimmer there, even briefly, was a wonderful nod to Equestria Girls becoming even more canon. Many people predicted the show's demise more than once - when Twilight became an alicorn and again after Season 5 with the inclusion of Starlight Glimmer and so on - but it kept going, proving its resilience. Of course, there were moments when plotlines and character arcs could have delved deeper, but even with its imperfections, MLP remains a shining example of how much impact a show can have. It's something I'll keep returning to whenever I need a reminder of what it brought into my life. And it's heartening to see new fans being drawn in by the same magic that captivated me all those years ago. In the end, the finale truly closed out an era, leaving behind a legacy that we'll never forget. --- Whew... It feels unbelievable how time can pass so quickly and yet seem like only yesterday when you first started this show. I remember discovering your YouTube pilot episode and though I found the jump-cuts caused by copyright issues a bit disruptive I instantly decided to support you on Patreon, because the way you talked about them afterward was so intriguing that it kept me hooked. I truly appreciate that you gave the series a chance and allowed us to share information and insights along the way. This show has always been my most precious feel-good comfort, something I turn to when I'm feeling down. Watching your reactions felt like a beacon of light and I believe everyone else in the community sensed that same uplifting energy. Now that we've come to the end of an era, I can't help but feel a profound sense of finality, and I'm sure many others feel it too. So here we are at the end and all I really want to say is: Thank you! 💙 - P.S.: If you want further MLP G4 Stuff, remember what I told you about the official IDW comics. There is much more stuff to read on 😄 P.P.S.: Well Ed, you are now officially... ... ONE OF US! ... ONE OF US! 🤣
DeViruZz.eXe
2025-01-06 22:46:53 +0000 UTCI don't know for sure, but I think it's both commercial and creator decision related reason why the show ended. After all it's not a bad thing, I didn't want another Simpsons as well as everyone did I presume. Regarding criticism about the possible plotlines and arcs, most of it is just my subjective opinions and thoughts about what could have been, but it didn't necessarily have to be implemented. I just find some concepts very interesting with potential to make the story deeper. For example some ideas on paper: Two-parter where Twilight becomes the main villain (Midnight Sparkle) for some personal reason connected to her friends. This is just a sketch, but it already opens so many opportunities for a good drama and turns the story upside down, since now we are dealing with the main character and not with just some another evil guy out of nowhere who wants to concur the world. Riot of some of the changelings due to Chrysalis's downfall and them potentially becoming a bigger threat. It would logically continue the finale of season 6 with more dramatic consequences. Starlight becoming the new element of harmony, maybe empathy (well it's a bit controversial idea). CMS meeting a grown up pony who doesn't have a cutie mark, as you suggested many times. Rarity taking magic lessons from Twilight/Starlight to be more useful in battles, which will give a new perspective on their relationship and make Rarity stronger as a unicorn. Pinky and AJ going on a friendship mission to help the earth pony who envies unicorns and pegasi, which would develop the theme of inequality between the races of ponies more. Twilight entrusting Discord with a task of making magical quest for the students of the friendship school, which is just a really funny idea to me. There are a lot more concepts that I and other bronies have, but I guess I will stop here. As for real criticism I can highlight several moments: The pillars are underdeveloped. Their characters don't have enough substance except for Starswirl and Rockhoof. Their role in the plot was very insignificant and it feels like the writers mostly didn't know what to do with them but introduced them into the plot anyway. Starlight's redemption arc just could be executed better. Also in my opinion there should have been an episode where she goes back to her village to make an apology instead of a small bit of it in the finale of season 5. There's a lack of interactions and chemistry between the main six and the young six in season 8. The concept of the school of friendship itself is great, but the writers almost didn't explore the problems of the main six that are related to working with students. Facing burnout, inability to properly teach lessons, personal conflicts with students and so on. As a bright example of it - "Non-compete clause". It could be an episode about how RD and AJ overcome their conflict and rivalry due to a duty of being good role models for kids and maybe through watching the same conflict between the students as well with bonding at the end, but it didn't. Just wasted potential. I can go on for a long time, but that's it for now. Thanks for reading!
PavelCypher
2024-12-30 14:45:29 +0000 UTCSome amazimg details! Spike got jacked lol twilight is celestias size and has the same flowing mane! gummy is huge now!
Pinkie_applepie
2024-12-30 12:28:55 +0000 UTCIt’s crazy it just feels like yesterday when you started this show and I subbed to your patreon and YouTube 😭 it’s an end of era for sure everyone felt it! I’m so happy I could be a part of this journey! this last episode was amazing I get emotional everytime I watch it especially during the song, the magic of friendship grows it’s such a beautiful song, this show has helped me so much in dark times and helped me truly grow as a person and made me feel like I could make friends, I’ve made lots of friends from the brony fandom lots of amazing people who love it just as much as me, and yes unfortunately some people hate us and look down on us for being so passionate about mlp but if they’d just give it a chance they might love it and turn into one of us never judge a book by its cover! but yes phenomenal ending to my favorite show, I love luster dawn her colors remind me of sunset and she’s a lot like twilight from the beginning which makes sense cause so many people can relate to her and it happens all over again like a cycle , the time skip is pretty crazy and yes thats pinkies kid! i couldn’t believe she has a kid now but it makes sense she’d always babysit pound and pumpkin cake, cheese and pinkie are a couple which is adorable! also some people ship apple jack and rainbow together since they live together now, and I agree seeing sunset actually in it would’ve made me even more happy! lol at least we got a pic of her, thank you so much for giving mlp a chance and watching it, I’ve loved every reaction of yours! I always look forward to them! 😊 and no problem Ive enjoyed sharing as much info and stuff as I can for you! this ending is one I’ll never forget! lots of small details you probably missed so you can always go back and look for them! also some reactors didn’t see the lyrabon wedding in the newspaper! I’m happy you noticed that! Also lots of fans watched this at the very last bronycon in 2019 very emotional ending for so many fans! It’s a happy ending but bittersweet because it’s the end, also I loved the book closing at the end definitely made a lot of fans cry including me, i started watching this show in 2011 with my siblings I’ll never forget those times and I’m always thankful to have watched mlp and became a brony/ part of the fandom! I’m happy you experienced it too!
Pinkie_applepie
2024-12-30 11:24:50 +0000 UTCLook at you being a deviruz 😂😂 Huuuh. You’re right. Not enough to just be a mirror of S1 twilight Wtf are these theories? 😂😂😂😂😅😅 Oooooooo dang. They had another powerful defeat?! The new protectors of Equestria Yes I noticed them! They also had that proposal in ep 23 I believe Pinkie is a mom 😭😭😭 and oooo interesting. Didn’t know the gender would have am much interest Huuuh. This would be crazy and considering both of them didn’t have any romantic interests and they are competitive, idk maybe there’s something. And creators staying hush? Yeah something gotta be up Ahhh. That’s so sad 😭😭😭😭 Friends don’t make lunch for each other 🤔 Oooo the twins!! And no I’ll have to look back Yeah he’s apart of the school so I don’t think they are a thing I don’t want to be a jerk so I won’t say my angel joke 😂😂😂. But that is also possible they passed Yes feel free to talk about more when you aren’t sleepy!
Ed
2024-12-30 08:38:28 +0000 UTCWell said! Finales rarely get this treatment so it’s great it got to leave on a high note! Yes more ups than downs for sure. I’m curious what else do you think they could have done? And do you know if the show ended because of contractual agreements or a creator decision?
Ed
2024-12-30 07:44:32 +0000 UTCHey Scarlet! And yes it’s over 😭 Yes I had some people want G5 so it just might be the next one! 🤔
Ed
2024-12-30 07:43:02 +0000 UTCThis episode is such a perfect ending to the show. But I don't need to go into detail on that because you basically agree with me. Instead, I'm just going to deep dive into the large amount of minutiae in this episode, and/or some big fandom talking points in the episode, and see where this takes you. - the "Abyssinians" Spike mentions at the beginning are established in the comics as being the name of the cat species Capper belongs to. So when Spike says he's having difficulty trying to make peace between them and the Diamond Dogs... he's basically trying to make peace between cats and dogs. Get it? -Luster Dawn. The name sure suggests she will be important, doesn't it? I mean, look at what other characters have a name comprised of a time of day and a lighting effect... Twilight Sparkle... Sunset Shimmer... -Speaking of Luster Dawn, who is she anyway? Obviously for the episode's purpose she doesn't NEED to be anyone but Twilight's student. But you know how fans can be about theories. Many people look at the cutie mark and think she could easily be the daughter of Sunburst. But then who would the mother be? For many fans the obvious answer is Starlight. But could Starlight and Sunburst really be more than friends? Some have theorized she could be Trixie's. But Sunburst and Trixie? How did THAT happen? But... what if Starlight and Trixie are together and Sunburst just provided the sperm? Now we may be getting somewhere... -in addition to the Flurry Heart stained glass window that you did notice, there was also one depicting the Student Six defeating some weird villain we had not yet seen. - I could not tell from the speed of your reaction whether you noticed that the wedding announcement in the paper that you commented on was Lyra and Bonbon - Li'l Cheese is pretty obviously the child of Pinkie Pie and Cheese Sandwich. What isn't obvious is their gender. Their face is drawn in the style typically used for fillies, so the art nerds in the fandom immediately assumed they were female. But many statements from the staff and mentions in minor official media like the mobile game refer to Li'l Cheese with male pronouns. Whatever the truth is, Pinkie and Cheese having a kid that transcends gender sort of tracks, doesn't it? - Speaking of Li'l Cheese... only Weird Al Yankovic could be such a legend as to get his self-insert canonically mated with a main character -Rainbow Dash and Applejack walk in together, arguing about chores that they appear to both be responsible for. Does this mean they're together? To the Appledash shippers, it couldn't be more obvious. But others do all sort of mental gymnastics to explain it some other way. The writers refuse to settle it. What do you think? -You noted Applejack had kind of a Granny Smith look going on with the scarf. In fact, the way most of us interpret this is that the scarf IS Granny's, and that Granny has passed away at some point in the time skip (which is not totally shocking given how old she already was). Apple Bloom appears to be wearing Goldie Delicious' scarf as well. - Fluttershy pops in through a portal from Discord's dimension and he hands her a lunch and waves goodbye. Are THEY together? -during the final song, the pair of ponies Li'l Cheese runs to outside Sugarcube Corner, that you were initially confused into thinking they might be their kid? That's actually the Cake twins, now all grown up. Also, did you notice how big Gummy got? - Some people strangely think that Starlight and Sunburst seen together at the school during the final song is evidence that they're together. It's obviously not... clearly these people forgot that just a few episodes ago Starlight hired Sunburst as Vice-headmare. (Of course that doesn't mean they *aren't* together though, see above) - That's a lot of bunnies in Fluttershy's scene in the final song. Given bunny lifespans, Angel's probably gone by then, but he clearly found a mate in there sometime. That's all I have at the moment. I'm falling asleep. I'm sure I'll have more to say later. I just love this episode so much
sjones17515
2024-12-30 05:11:33 +0000 UTCBeen lurking too, and so sad it’s over 😭. Hopefully, maybe G5 in the future
ScarletX1
2024-12-30 03:56:12 +0000 UTCThat was an amazing way to finish the show. This finale gives so many warm feelings and a sense of completeness, especially to somebody who started to watch MLP in 2010 and was going through it for almost a decade (like me). This series is a full-fledged story with a clear beginning and a clear beautiful ending which ties up everything. And the very last song is also one of my favourite songs in the show, maybe even top 1. The show as a whole was a fantastic journey, even though it had some flops, especially towards the end. But definitely there were much more ups than downs. I still think that a lot of moments like plotlines and character arcs had a huge potential and could have been much deeper, but despite of not being perfect MLP is still a very impactful and well executed example of a good kids show to which it's always nice to return.
PavelCypher
2024-12-30 03:35:00 +0000 UTCGlad to hear from you Chizuru! What a journey you had! Glad you got to be a part of all of this. You can comment in the most recent post about what we can potentially do next! I think some people want G5 of MLP but at some point a new series will have to happen once MLP and SU finish. Amphibia has been on my radar for two years now. Most likely will be the next series I do here and YouTube!
Ed
2024-12-29 23:12:00 +0000 UTCHello! i've been lurking since season 5, congratulation on finishing the silly pony show ! i watch mlp since season 1 came out when i was seven, then continued watching for 10 yrs. cant wait to see wathever you're gonna watch next! (if you're looking for more cartoons, i recommend The owl house or Amphibia if you havent watched those already :D)
Chizuru
2024-12-29 22:46:19 +0000 UTC
