That makes 2 main characters she's outshined briefly in her youth now. First beating Rarity in her go cart category and now Rainbow Dash. I wonder if it's going to be a trend. Are we later going to learn that she won a science fair with a baking soda volcano or drove a flock of sheep into a pen perfectly while looking for the snack cart? The possibilities are endless.
So... Rainbow Dash actually has crossed paths with Lightning Dust before? AND Filly Spitfire AND Colt Soarin? Filly Spitfire was especially ADORABLE :D
JPonyLoco Well remember she was flying in the senior flyers group. Meaning Spitfire, Derpy, ext are all older than her. If you look close everyone on the podium is slightly taller than Rd
It's more the Lightning Dust thing, since in Wonderbolt Acamedy they've clearly never met prior to that episode, but I suspect it was a easter egg they added OR more likely, they've never OFFICIALLY met til Wonderbolt Academy
Animation Fan We got to see her "house" back in Flight to the Finish so we might see her parents or guardian soon. Part of me wants her to fly and another part doesn't. Her not being able to fly could show kids that if you do have a disability that doesn't mean that you can't do great things and achieve your dreams but the half is like I really want her to fly as it's always been something she's wanted and having her never achieve that dream is a bit heartbreaking. Either way, I'm fine with either option as long as it's executed well.
It isn't confirmed that she's an orphan. She said that she wished that she had supportive parents, I took it to mean that she has parents but they aren't supportive. Plus this is a cartoon, I doubt that they'd make a young character like Scootaloo an orphan.
Talking about subtle backstory, did you see the progression of Derpy's/Muffin's Handicap during RD's flashback. When combined with the hospital scene from a previous episode it looks like the MLP staff are slowly telling us another story.
I'm surprised you didn't mention how Derpy used to be a better flyer than rainbow Dash, Lightning Dust, and the Wonderbolts before she began to become cross eyed. I think it was kinda clever.
A Brony I never even noticed until you pointed it out. I now want a fanfic where Derpy isn't cross-eyed and forms a privatized flying organization that becomes superior to the Wonder Bolts. Imagine a first-person comedy following Rainbow Dash trying to join this new organization.
maybe, but if that was the case, it would be more likely that she would be at the top once, then be at the bottom, and her eyes would probably always been "derpped" (can't think of proper terminology) instead of progressively worse and progressively losing standing
That look on Scootaloo's face at the end when all three were hoisting her up. You can literally hear her thoughts,"This is what its like to be in a family." while holding back tears of joy.
i completely agree with what ypu said doc i especially loved the ending when Dash and her parents cheered for scootaloo it was so heartwarming and it really made her feel special and happy with that smile she gave but i did find an easter egg that i find very interesting when derpy was on top her eyes were perfectly normal but the more she went down on the pedestal the more her eyes became like we see them today what do you think about this?
This episode brought soo many memories from growing up in school and sports. I've had a very hard life since I'm hard of hearing and have a very different personality from others which lead to bullying. but the whole time my parents supported me which helped. eventually I moved to a deaf school where life got better. I played basketball and at almost all games my parents especially my dad was there cheering in the crowd. my favorite memory was when I was heading down the court with the ball and my dad was actually yelling louder than the crowd. so loud that both me and some hearing impaired teammates heard him. we were all laughing. I'm glad to have had that support and this is most definitely one of my favorite episodes.
I loved this episode, and it is totally something people can relate to. My parents used to applaud me for everything as a toddler, and filmed every little thing I do. I guess I did take that for granted, seeing as my younger siblings never had that luxurity.
With how much the writers enjoy showing characters as Fillies and Colts, it surprises me we haven't gotten a 'Turned Young' episode, Discord could pretend he's lost control of his magic and turns the Mane Six into Fillies, and it becomes up to Luna and Celestia, to help change them back, while the Filly Mane Six get into hilarious adorable shenanigans around Canterlot, just a fun episode I'd enjoy seeing
intresting. but one question. would the magic make the mane 6 a filly version of them now, or make them go back in time to become a filly. just thought about it because of Twilight's wings and stuff. would her wings still be there when she becomes a filly again?
Filly version's of themselves now, imagine the mischeif that Filly Alicorn Twilight could get up to, I'm guessing you don't like Twilight being an Alicorn?
i liked the episode, however i dont like the moral. i mean its true that rainbow was wrong but not all the way. i mean her parents almost seriously injured someone with the fire works. i hoped she would just tell them to turn down a bit. and we could get to see scootalo's parents
What had my attention was the Wonderbolts reactions to Dash's parents and their support. They didn't look annoyed and such. I would've liked it if some of them like Spitfire tell Rainbow Dash their parents were just the same when they became Wonderbolts. As a means to show her they've been there, like with Rainbow's embarrassing nickname.
I did find myself enjoying the episode overall, but I am of the crowd that finds the parents' excitement to be too much. For much of their time on the screen, I often thought to myself, "You two are adults; act like adults." I like the subtle hints of Scootaloo's backstory, but I hope that it gets elaborated further. Like, what if both of her parents are Earth Ponies, and therefore she might not know how to fly because her parents never taught her? I think there is such a thing as limbs not being developed due to lack of use. Part of me flinches a little, though, in reaction to Scootaloo's fangasming over Rainbow. She hasn't done it to this degree since..."Mysterious Mare-Do-Well". Five seasons ago. But I think the best thing about this episode is how they explained why Rainbow's parents were never introduced until now. The fact that Rainbow hasn't even been talking to her parents also explained something that I had found weird until now: why did she move to Ponyville on her birthday as stated in "Pinkie's Pride"? Knowing that Rainbow is a pony of action, it would make sense that she would move out as soon as she was adult age without thinking about the effect that would have on her parents.
I loved this episode so much! It was a great explanation as to why we haven't seen Rainbow's parents before, and Scootaloo's perspective was a wonderful touch. And now we know where Rainbow got her ego from. lmao! And I think it would be really cool for them to eventually directly address Scootaloo's parent's in a future episode. Maybe address the fact that they are never present in her life and have some sort of lesson about that. I mean it is fairly common for children to have absent parents so an episode like that could do some good for those children(and maybe even any parents watching as well). Also I think we can safely say Derpy was not born wall-eyed and I would really like a back story about what happened to her.
I think it's great that we get to see Rainbow's parents. I guess some parents do support their children. What is up with the Rainbow Dah and the parents supporting Scootaloo at the end? Is Scootaloo the actual winner of the race in "The Cart Before The Ponies"? I just keep my theory of Applebloom winning that race until the episode reveals the winner. Nice work with Rainbow Dash's parents. I'll be waiting to see Applejack's parents up next.
Thinking about this episode made me finally realized why I enjoy this show. Not the relatable characters and moments, not the adventures, not the slice of life, but the moments that are simply fun to watch. And it's something this series has no short supply of. Even the first Equestria Girls movie that so many hate is really fun to watch, I've seen it almost as many times than ACRacebest has seen Zootopia. If I ever make a second attempt at Brony Analysis, my "analysis" will be about how fun episodes are.
I agree with you on much of the points you've brought up on the episode. Though I felt giving Rainbow's parents a private show while a sweet gesture was not really the way to set things right. Rainbow Dash had reason to be upset at her parents for their behavior and while Scootaloo's statements about them being supportive were poignant. What I feel really should have happened is Rainbow Dash meeting up with her parents and having an actual sit down with them by saying that she does appreciate the support they give her, but their enthusiasm comes across as too strong. And that is what bothers her about them knowing she is a wonderbolt.
Oh but it was. It got her parents to *experience* the embarrassment of being overly cheered. Who says they didn't talk a bit after that? We're cut off straight to Scootaloo's report and getting the cheering she had missed her entire life. Anyway, just because Cheerilee didn't appreciate Scootaloo expressing herself mainly trough photography and samples doesn't mean it was a bad report...
I think I heard someone say it was someone else. I think "father figure" to RD was the words they used, like an uncle or something. Really, I think the writers were on the fence about his character design back then and this is the new and improved version, since we see how he looks when she's a little filly through the flashbacks.
I agree very much. In fact her parents should have been arrested for assault, public endangerment, trespassing, and even terrorism (they shot the Wonderbutts down). And even Scootaloo is bad in here.
Yea-- maybe in an episode where RD's parents adopt her? They already seem to be getting close, and even little Dashie already considers her a sister of sorts...
Best of all, this actually makes writing fanfiction much easier (as now I'll just make Firefly Scootaloo's birth mom like in the MotherlyScootaloo ask blog).
Honestly, this is the on of the most relatable episodes to me, just below A Royal Problem. Definitely a good episode, but I am one of those people who nitpicked the WAY over the top scenes. Other than that, great episode!
I loved this episode a lot too. It can be a tough balance between too much support and no support at all, but Rainbow's parents were just amazing. I'd love to meet Scootaloo's family someday or at least find out exactly what her home situation is like, but for now, she was great.
Whilst this episode is AMAZING and my fave of the season so far, I would have liked RD's parents to learn something. Their supportiveness was great, but when it started interrupting Wonderbolts practice, distracting and embarassing Rainbow so much that she couldn't concentrate and cut off Spitfires tail, or ruined her fan's photo signing... it was too much and I thought they needed to learn their actions were having negative effects, as they could have gotten her into a lot of trouble. I found it a bit unsettling how in the flashback, their cheering made the other pegasus kids annoyed and they all left Rainbow on the podium looking miserable and lonely even though she'd finally won. It's like she could have been isolated among her peers because of them. I love them as characters but I thought a calm discussion about how RD knows how supportive they are and doesn't need them to express it so much, especially at times she needs to focus, would have been nice at the end.
I felt that it was too heavy handed with the moral. I admit my parents were not every supporting when I was growing up. Even I have more sympathy for Rainbow in this situation. They went lil too far. They were shooting fireworks into the air and were a distraction to the point of being dangerous. Their devotion was on level of fanatic. The moral is saying its okay to go overboard and ignore the person's feelings as long as you mean to be supportive.
I really enjoyed this episode. My only small "neigh" for this episode are the reactions of Rainbow Dash's parents who could be at times a bit over the top (I also would have liked a more explicit sign from their part that they did recognize their mistakes). But my second and main "neigh" is the appearance of Spitfire, Soarin and other wonderbolts during the flashback. I mean I understand that they were still older than Rainbow Dash but how could they knew her back then and not remember her back in season 1? But that doesn't make the episode any less good
I really do love this episode, but the only nitpick I have is when Rainbow Dash was telling Scootaloo about her progression as a flyer. It was nice to see Spitfire, Soarin, and Fleetfoot as foals, but it confuses me why they don't remember how loud Rainbow's parents could be in the present when they were there during all of her Senior circuit races.
It's at this point I started to think that may be the orange chickens hero worship has gone to full-blown obsession. Also if those Princess commemorative plates came out once per year have been a complete collection must be quite difficult. Also I just know Someones going to make a Ark of the covenant joke at some point (I am typing this before any Review have come out just in case I called it) I'm also beginning to see where the ego comes from....... actually this one episode completely explains everything about RD's character. But in all honesty I don't think she was completely wrong in this episode, heck you could argue the whole reason why her ego gets out of control so often was because of her overbearing parents. I personally don't like it when to listen is completely one-sided when it's obvious both sides needed to learn something.
I really enjoyed this episode. I just wish that the apology from Rainbow Dash seemed more elongated, and just genuine. I know she was really sorry, but it felt like it was rushed a little. I did love this episode nevertheless. 😁
The only problem I have with this episode, and I know that a LOT of people will disagree with me here, is how they treat Rainbow Dash like the "Villain". The rage scene is ABSOLUTELY understandable with how the parents were acting. Maybe the tone could've been different but come on.
I think this episode needed to tone down the set-up drastically, and spend time showing and not telling during the part where Rainbow supposedly makes it up to her parents for "taking them for granted", even though that isn't what she did. The conflict was way too one sided in Rainbow Dash's favor, and apparently it's supposed to EXPLAIN how she became such an egotistical jerk, but it feels kind of like the show staff fishing for an excuse. It seems like having friends and being in The Wonderbolts has helped Rainbow Dash to learn more than her parents ever taught her.
I can relate some way to this specially the way my mum been supportive over the years with my difficulties. Wasn't for her showing me that if I push for what I can stride for I can reach that goal back when I was in school to uni. Even after that I feel good and happy for what my mum had done.
Hm. I can't say that I much care for this episode. Don't get me wrong, the jokes are funny, the plot is good, the characterization is on point, and Rainbow Dash's parents are entertaining! It's more what the episode, and RD's parents, represent. See, over-encouragement is exactly what the baby boomer generation thinks is wrong with kids nowadays. Participation awards are a confidence booster, but they also make us lazy, complacent, and self-entitled (according to them). I can't say I like it either, but for different reasons: for me, participation awards are more of a prize for the PARENT, not the child. A sort of, "Congratulations! You've validated your child and prevented crushing their self-esteem!" Growing up, I wasn't exactly the most athletic kid, but my parents put me in a lot of children's sports activities. Thus, I got a whole lot of participation awards. I was not fooled. I knew that everyone got these prizes, and they were essentially worthless. But Mom and Dad always seemed so happy when I went back to them after receiving one, so I just shrugged and put it up on the ledge with the other five dozen exact same participation awards. My problem is, the episode validates this kind of behavior! "Rainbow Dash's parents coddled her! They supported her no matter what, and suffocated her with praise! And look how SHE turned out!" The inclusion of Scootaloo, I think, hurts it a little, because while understandable, it draws the inevitable comparison: Scootaloo had no one growing up, and she's basically a cripple! This is NOT OKAY. This is saying that your parents' support is basically the only thing that can push you to greatness. I'm not saying it's wrong for a parent to support their child, I'm saying it's wrong to do it like this, giving them so much praise all the time that all their actual achievements become essentially meaningless! Hanging up a towel? Really??? But I get it. The show is written by today's parents; the ones who raised their kids like this. The ones who saw this system and thought it worked. And most of the reviewers, such as the good doctor here, are looking through those same eyes. They think it's right, even healthy! Well I'm here to tell you that it doesn't matter. Despite my MOUNTAINS of soccer participation awards, I'm not a soccer player. I got so many awards and so much praise for my at best decent playing that soccer has become essentially worthless to me. That's all that this kind of parenting does: it cheapens the sense of achievement one gets from accomplishing something hard by giving it exactly the same reward as hanging up a towel. This episode advocates a system that DOESN'T WORK and leads to a generation of manic-depressive, stressed out, nihlistic freaks of nature we call the millennials. Thanks, guys.
You summed up my thoughts perfectly, my dear sir. Rainbow could've just as well turned out as another Zephyr Breeze. And no one wants another Zephyr Breeze.
AGREED. Too much support cripples development. So does too little support. I sympathize with Scootaloo because she's got NOTHING from her family, and only has her friends/Rainbow to support her. I also sympathize with Rainbow Dash, because even getting Scootaloo more than anyone should, I don't want the excessive support that cripples emotional development.
On Scootaloo's home life, I liked seeing that she does have a place to live, seen in 'Flight to the Finish,' and liked hearing (not liked liked, but glad to have some background information, if you know what I mean) that she's not really getting any encouragement at home, but as for why she's not getting any encouragement and if/how this may relate to her inability to fly is something I hope they SHOW in an episode. Hell, they still need to explain why her parents weren't there when she got her cutie mark. I can't imagine an orphanage would allow a child to be running all over town and beyond without supervision, so she must be living with one relative or another, so why did no one come for that once-in-a-lifetime event?
I kinda wanna see an episode that focus on Scootaloo's... home. Whether she's an actual orphan or in a neglectful home. I think it would be brave of them to do an episode like that. It can relate to some kids if done right. Like nothing too over the top but, a mild take? Idk how to describe it...
Its a HUGE problem that we never get the parents getting some of the blame. Like they were yes annoying but also straight up rude and disruptive to other people. And when rainbow says all her problems with her parents she is apparently in the wrong
My jaw dropped right when Scoodaloo mentioned her lack of parental support. It has given me a hunger for knowledge, I REALLY hope we get to meet Scoodaloo's family soon.
Definitely makes up for Newbie Dash by a longshot. As a side note, Amy Rose is one of my favorite characters, so you can see why this is one of my favorites this season.
It wasn't funny. I felt really bad for Dash and the fact that she said nothing about how the nickname was from her childhood made me feel uncomfortable.
blaa6 That's a fair point, but I thought it was a good lesson on how hazing is just part of life. While it wasn't giving me good laughs a whole lot, the story was what really pulled the episode thru.
I enjoyed the parents as characters and liked the episode, but it falls into that stupid trope of a character or characters doing something annoying, then the main character gets (rightfully) mad at them for being annoying, they get upset for some reason and the main character is somehow in the wrong. While Rainbow could have been more honest with them, I kind of think that good parents should be able to tell when they're making their child and others uncomfortable.
Personally, I actually hated this episode. Don't get me wrong, it was hilarious, it had some great moments a wonderful conflict and I appreciate what the MLP staff was trying to say with the message, but… NO. THIS IS A HORRIBLE MESSAGE FOR BOTH PARENTS AND KIDS. I'm sorry, I can understand a supportive family and that you should be kind, respectful and overall grateful to your parents/parental figures. But the way that Rainbow's parents went about it was TOO FAR. And worse off, they clearly didn't even learn their own lesson. The episode goes, Rainbow, you should appreciate your family no matter how disruptive (thunder during Wonderbolts practice), endangering (unscheduled fireworks during the actual show), or ridiculous (How do you measure how great one hangs a towel?) they become. I'm sorry, but no. Even the way that her parents encouraged her was WRONG. Yes, be supportive, but don't praise your kids for every little thing as if they were the absolute best thing since sliced bread Especially for coming in LAST PLACE. Encourage them to work even harder to achieve their goal, but don't make them delusional about it. Seriously, I am surprised that Rainbow didn't wind up like Sky Stinger. Before this episode, Rainbow's haughty nature made sense because she was actually capable of many great feats, which gave her a big head. But this episode makes it seem like that haughty nature was all due to her parents praising her until she became something between Trixie and Top Bolt's Sky Stinger. but just so happened to have the potential/skills to back it up. That's the only thing that ruined it for me. The parents should have learned their lesson too. You know, something about moderation and self-control. As such, (for me at least) this episode became just as bad as… Applejack's portrayal from Somepony to Watch Over Me except without her learning her lesson and instead scolding Applebloom for her desire to be treated like an adult.
Yea, the AJ in Somepony to Watch Over Me was crazy, so is this. Actually I'd like to see AJ, Twilight, Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy meeting them... (Fluttershy might have already, her parents live in Cloudsdale too but the rest...) Has AJ ever met them? Anyway, apparently they praise RD more out of loyalty than any sort of actual deed...
I like the idea that Scoots is a foster child or someone being raised by distant parents or relatives and that Rainbow's parents being so familial to her is a sign that they already view her as part of their family.
3:10 Look at how after each race, the characters change by 1 position. Derpy USED to be the best in RD's class, but transitioned slowly to the bottom. AMAZING CAMEO!
Something interesting that wasn't really addressed in this episode is that RD's parents are probably the reason she has such a problem with humility. It's true her parents gave her a lot of confidence but also a lot of overconfidence. That's really an episode of its own though so I won't hold it against the episode. Plus it's nice to have another foal version of one of the Mane 6...but that does muddle the eye question more.
Spoilers for ep. Doctor Wolf. I'm a little shocked you did go deeper into what Scootaloo said. I think this is the closest We'll get to hearing Scootaloo is an Orphan, based on how she reacted to Rainbow's parents and how she reacted to Dash for yelling at them. I really think this was Scootaloo say (as G rated as possible) that she doesn't HAVE parents
I read that Lauren Faust stated that Scootaloo *did* have parents - they just had really demanding jobs and couldn't be around a lot. And that Scootaloo was good at evading her babysitter. XD
Scootaloo is not an orphan! She said that she wished that she had supportive parents. Meaning she has parents just not supportive ones, which makes sense as to why they're never shown. I hate the fan made theory that Scootaloo is an orphan.
Book Lover Well the orphan hero is very popular in media Xp Just look at Harry Potter or Naruto I don't care for the "Abused" Scootaloo theory but I think Scootaloo being an Orphan makes sense. I also like the "Scootaloo can never fly" theory because I'm disabled and I like seeing a disabled kid in media that isn't treated any differently. She gets into occasional mischief but is at her core a good person who works hard. She struggles with her desire to fly even after she accepts it but she doesn't let it hold her back and no one pities her. I guess I just find the possibility she is an Orphan to give her even more depth, possibly the reason no one will adopt her is because she can't fly
Hey did anyone see the BG pony developments? Like, did you notice the lower Derpy got on the podiums, the more derp she got? There's alot of backstory coming from Derpy in the BG! Dr. Wolf, you gotta analyze that! Also, did anyone notice Thunderlane is a FULL Wonderbolt now?! :O
I would also like an episode that explains Scootaloo’s story, she is one of my favorite ponies rights next to Fizzlepop Berrytwist aka Tempest, what is the deal with her parents did they abandon her? Are they just absentee parents? Are they ashamed that their daughter can’t fly. Does Scootaloo have a birth defect or an illness?
I related a lot with Rainbow Dash this episode. I'm quite familiar with the concept of having most, if not every thing you do be rewarded with (often undeserved) praise, so much so that when you actually do something important, the praise just feels empty, making you question what was even the point in the first place. I kind of wish the episode focused a little more on that aspect, maybe have the parents realize that what they thought was helpful may have actually had an inverse effect or something like that, but I digress. I still really liked the episode. The writing was great, and I suppose the moral was still nice, even if it didn't mainly focus on the part that specifically relates to me, which I currently consider to be more of a "me problem".
+Mr. Porkirby Yeah, I agree! When I first heard about this episode I thought it was going to have a lot of cringe worthy moments, but I surprisingly enjoyed it. However I am slightly conflicted by the moral. Similar to you I had some very unique experiences growing up when it came to this topic. I was never that good at sports as a kid and whenever I lost at something I used to get really annoyed when people started to give me praise for it. "You did really well!" I just used to think to myself "Well how did they come to that conclusion? I lost! Surely if I'd had done well I would have won!" Luckily I was spared the mortification of receiving a "Participation Award" which I think should be banned by the way (seriously, they're supposed to make kids feel better about not winning, but it's essentially like putting a massive sign on their head saying "I LOST! I'M A LOSER!") And then on the other hand, when I found stuff that I was good at, and would win, I got barely any praise at all. In fact other kids would hate me for winning something that they wanted, so I just figured none of this was worth it!
I have to agree too. If EVERYTHING is praised as "special" then the very concept of the word loses all meaning and makes the things that actually ARE special and important not seem like it. RD's parents really need to get their act together and learn their lesson. This kind of overly crazed fanatic behavior isn't healthy. For them, for RD, and for everyone around them. RD needs her parents to be PARENTS not fans. They were idolizing her rather instead of being proper parents. Not to mention how blind they were to her feelings and how uncomfortable they were making her. If they'd paid attention, it might not have gotten to the point where she had to yell at them just to get them to realize. They were way too blind about it and it bugs me. And one would think that Scootaloo would at least better notice, but no... she was just as blind as them. She's not this blind to RD's feelings in other episodes, as far as I know. At least not to this extent. So, why was she so much blinder in this episode? It really bugs me.
Well I see that as *baby* treatment. It'd be fine cheering Flurry Heart for hanging up a towel... not Rainbow though. There was a LOT about their "delicate" relationship that Scootaloo didn't understand. She cannot, because *she* never had support, (probably not even *parents*). Also, you can't blame the young for not understanding how the older ones think... After that little chat... how Scoots was NEVER told she's best at anything -- "I need to make things right". (It wasn't JUST the parents but Scootaloo too, not that Scoots really got that). Sending Scoots to go with them -- And RD's parents actually played their part, calling Scootaloo makes the best blindfold knots (they just exaggerate that way about EVERYTHING). And yes, the announcement, and the Super-Private Wonderbolt Event for them -- RD's very fast talk -- and the BIG show just for them (really liked that clouds + heart thing). Rainbow did it this way because -- this way, her parents got to experience the embarrassing amount of spotlight and really get that it was too much they were doing. And Rainbow actually HAD to do it that way. It's an "apology" mainly to soothe Scootaloo; and Big Show to get her REAL message to them. Like the entire Ponyville did to Rainbow in 28 pranks later. Rainbow just couldn't understand what a 'prank gone too far' means until she had *experienced* it as the target. Apparently her parents are the same way. They can't understand "too much support is embarrassing" until they *experience* it. Giving Scoots that cheering (to the annoyance of CheeryLee) was good ending.
I think people are too hyped by the reveal of something we've wanted to see to notice the obvious flaw in this. Support of this level is dangerous. We've seen Rainbow Dash be arrogant and hard headed in the past and we've hated that, but how do you think she got that way? Maybe by having parents who told her that every single thing she did was the best thing ever? This is a terrible moral, saying that it's okay to turn children into arrogant assholes who think they're the best at everything because you're just trying to support them. With how much Rainbow actually lost as a filly, we're lucky she didn't shut down and give up because she felt she could live up to her parents expectations. Honestly, there are dozens of ways that this level of support can go wrong and if it had been anyone except Rainbow Dash, it probably would have. The moral should have been for the parents to calm the hell down. Rainbow was completely justified in going off on them. They were telling her she was the best at hanging TOWELS.
To me, this only makes it even more of a point to bring Scootaloo into the front for her family. For either the neglectful parent story, or for the Orphan story. There is a lot there that can be taught, and just might help children her age find solace.
I love her parents! They're so endearing, and I can totally see why she became such a sportsy pony. Some may think that they're super annoying, but in my opinion, they're just hyped up enough.
I'm glad you enjoyed it Doc, as did I! I didn't know what too expect from her folks but felt some of what did come were going too be elements and I loved at how the story was about RD and her folks it was told from Scootaloo's perspective for the most part... it just worked and I was REALLY hoping she'd play a major part. And I'd love too see more of her backstory, but not thrown at us like a ton of bricks, in elements.
Honestly, I don't think this episode is as great compared to your enthusiasm and your opinion. I really think that Rainbow Dash shouldn't be taking all the blame from Scootaloo since she's the one who started it and brought her parents around. It felt somewhat forced.. The ridiculous, over-the-top support from her parents feels somewhat predictable for the conflict. I also find when the RD's parents behaved and reacted after getting snapped and fed up by their daughter, for being parents...they acted too childish and immature for their own age. I also believe you should respect RD's privacy life and not go blabbering to the others without her permission. However, since Scootaloo was just trying to do a school report of her idol and without knowing, it's understandable from her point of view. But seeing her idol that had supporting parents was her dream that she wished she had was her ideal point of view and then realizing not everything is all "sunshine and rainbows" with Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo's naivete caught her off guard. The only thing that I like from this episode is the hints for a possible setup of Scootaloo's unknown backstory.
I love this episode! I know how it feels to have parents who are too supportive and you just want them to leave you alone with things, but at the same time you feel bad if you make them do so.
This episode made me laugh so much. Although Scootaloo actually got me annoyed at her a little bit. She was completely blind to Rainbow's discomfort of how her parents acted and when Rainbow did tell her how she felt Scootaloo didn't seem to understand why Rainbow's parents being too supportive is a bad thing. And then the ending of the episode made it look like Rainbow was in the wrong with how she acted, but I think that Rainbow was in the right. Maybe not in the way that she did it, but having people who are too supportive is way too much. Heck we even see that in Top Bolt with Vapor Trail's background. But, regardless I love this episode. There were so many laughs that I had in this episode. Although I know that people will think that Scootaloo don't have parents is canon because of her line, but note she means that she doesn't have supportive parents, she has parents just not supportive parents. I just hate the Scootaloo is a orphan theory. But yeah, I love this episode. Don't know where I'd place it, but it's up there. And yeah the door opening and music playing killed me, loved it.
I haven't seen this episode yet, but there's on thing I would like to see addressed, and that's how too much hollow or vapid praise can actually damage one's ego by demeaning the impact and personal value of genuine positive criticisms.
The episode was worth it for Scootaloo's Charlie Brown smile at the end. As for Scoot's backstory...I think her parents realized early that she wasn't going to be able to fly. Rather than raise her in Cloudsdale (where she'd be an object of ridicule, as well as it being actually dangerous for a non-flier), they moved to Ponyville. Now, I think her mom and dad still have jobs in Cloudsdale, which means they're away a lot. I don't think she's going to end up being an orphan (that's Applebloom's jam), but we could see an episode dealing with her being a latchkey kid.
This is the Rainbow Dash episode that I think every brony/pegasister has been waiting for. It's sad that most of Rainbow's recent episodes were either meh or barely passable. I don't know who they hired to write this episode, but boy, give that person a medal. This has been, by far, the most entertaining Rainbow Dash episode I've seen in a while, maybe even for the entire series. One cool little thing I noticed at the episode's start was that despite this being an RD episode, we don't see her until after the first third! The entire first third only features Scootaloo and RD's parents showing us some of RD's childhood and backstory. (Also, all you brony cooks, get to making a recipe of RD's favorite sandwich IMMEDIATELY. They shall be served at EVERY con!) I find it to be a very clever choice to insert Scootaloo in this story. They way she flips out when she sees the ponies responsible for bringing her inspiration into the world, along with seeing where her inspiration was raised, you couldn't help but smile a mile wide along with her. That will forever be ingrained in Scootaloo's memory, and it makes for a classic scene. As for RD's parents, I was also fairly entertained. I read the synopsis for the episode beforehand and had an idea of how they were going to act. Some of the time, they acted just as I predicted, which at times, was a bit annoying. But then there were other times where I was a bit surprised. The scene where Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistle run off crying after RD yells at them was sad, but in an over-the-top hilarious kind of way. Kind of reminds me of how Fluttershy yelled at Pinkie Pie and Rarity in "Putting Your Hoof Down." I also found the bits with Derpy in them were genius and hilarious. Who would've thought she used to be a better flyer than the likes of RD, Spitfire, Soarin, and Lightning Dust! And how they gradually develop the derp in her eyes was funny, but also a bit tragic, too. You REALLY wanna know what happened to her during her fillyhood. Oh, and the three bullies from the Sonic Rainboom episode? Were they...NOT being mean to RD? That's interesting... I do have a couple of minor nitpicks with this episode, though. One is, how in the world have Bow and Windy been so out of the loop with the Wonderbolts? I know the episode explains that RD's refusing to tell them was the reason for this, but still. Wouldn't something like RD becoming a Wonderbolt appear on the front page of a newspaper of something? Seeing how big a Wonderbolt fan their daughter was, wouldn't they have shown enough interest to stay tuned in on when the Wonderbolts would perform next? Again, the reason they do give in the episode is acceptable, but looking back, it's still a bit weak. The other nitpick I have, surprisingly, is with the moral. Don't get me wrong, it's a good moral and it makes perfect sense. You really should be grateful for the support you have from friends and family, even if it seems overwhelming and embarrassing at times. What I have a bit of a problem with is how we got to learning that moral. I was actually totally siding with RD when she finally exploded in anger and frustration on her parents (and quite honestly, I don't think I've ever seen her so mad before). When Scootaloo scolded at RD for her actions, I was surprised she didn't see things from her idol's point of view. Granted, they do talk about this to some degree later on, but I felt like it shouldn't have been Scootaloo giving the lesson here. Again, don't get me wrong here, it's a great idea to have the kid teach the adult a lesson every once in a while, and the lesson Scootaloo teaches is brilliant. I just feel like it would've made more sense for RD to talk to her parents in private, tell her feelings to them in a calmer tone, and come to an understanding with them. Bow and Windy could still cheer for her at the top of their lungs, but maybe just for when she performs with the Wonderbolts. (Seriously, best TOWEL hanger ever? REALLY?? Did they really have to exaggerate it THAT much??) Despite these nitpicks, this episode still a bona-fide gem to watch, and again, might be the best RD episode I've ever seen. I love how we delve deeper into RD's backstory and meet her family. Her parents, though annoying at a few parts, were interesting and fun. RD's dilemma is indeed understandable. The moral itself, was awesome. RD didn't try to do anything stupid or pathetic (looking at you, Newbie Dash). She was just being herself. Scootaloo's inclusion in the episode, much like Doc's comment, was a great idea. That ending scene with her getting support from RD and her family was a bit heartwarming and made for a fitting end. Since we still don't know that much about Scootaloo's family, fans can still speculate that she might be an orphan, and this might symbolize her possibly getting adopted. That's just a thought, though. Overall, another awesome episode to an ongoing awesome season.
it was an awesome episode. i am agreeing with all points. BUT the is one thing that went completly wrong in this episode. during dashs flashback we see that she is flying and competing with all the wonderbolts. she even makes it to the top. lightning dust was almost always on top. spitfire not once. but spitfire becomes the captain of the wonderbolts and lightning dust started with dash? there are some heavy inconsistancies going on. dash wanted to be a wonderbolt forever and trained for it. and every other pegasi made it before her and even became captain and whatnot?? sorry but the writers failed really hard with that flashback. this cant be taken as canon
Holy shit, this episode had me grinning throughout. Also, RD's parents should get a trophy for most effective "stab our hearts then twist the knife" moment with that scene in the locker room. "You are the best at making your parents feel worthless"!? Ouch.
I loved this Episode, but the constant cheering from Rainbow's parents was... more than a tad bit cringy, BUT it does work, simply because you understand just how uncomfortable Rainbow Dash must feel
I love the episode but yeah the ending there was definitely wrong. I mean we saw how toxic way too much supportive parents could be in Top Bolt with Vapor Trail's background. I didn't like the fact that the episode made Rainbow Dash in the wrong, she was in the right. Maybe not the way that she handled it, but at that time she was so annoyed/upset by her parents that she just got fed up with everything, and when you're annoyed/upset you tend to say things that you don't really mean. She should have calmly explained to them that while she appreciated their support there was such a thing as too much support. While I love the episode I hate that the episode made it look like Rainbow was in the wrong, because she wasn't.
easily top 10 episodes in the entire series. probably the best RD episode too. they handled this extremely well. and this now hypes me up for S7E13 where we finally learn what happened to the Apple Parents. only 3 weeks left!
I have the same problem with this as I did with the Babs Seed episode. The message is twisted by the fact that the character lashing out was justified. Rainbow Dash's parents display clearly toxic behavior, and Dash was well within her rights to stand up for herself. Yet the episode makes it seem like she was 100% in the wrong, and what's more, her parents never apologize for *their* behavior even though Dash has to apologize for hers. Not to mention the message itself just makes my blood boil. "Ignore your parents toxic behavior no matter how much they hurt you because at least the mean well." Been told that my whole life and....yeah no
That would be adorable. I love how they treated Scootaloo like she was a part of the family right away. I couldn't help but find it really endearing that they were just that nice and that they went to cheer her on at the end.
While I like the idea of the moral of appreciating your parents' support, Bow and Windy weren't just supportive, they were intrusive. Their "support" ruined the experience for other spectators and those trying to get an autograph, not to mention the obvious fact that they weren't paying any attention to Rainbow Dash's feelings. Teaching kids (and parents I guess) that parents' intrusive behavior and complete ignorance of their kids' feelings is acceptable just because "you have to be grateful that they are at least supportive" is honestly a horrible, if not toxic, moral in my opinion. This episode wasted a perfect opportunity to teach about trying to understand others and reach a compromise as a family.
I love the episode but yeah the ending there was definitely wrong. I mean we saw how toxic way too much supportive parents could be in Top Bolt with Vapor Trail's background. I didn't like the fact that the episode made Rainbow Dash in the wrong, she was in the right. Maybe not the way that she handled it, but at that time she was so annoyed/upset by her parents that she just got fed up with everything, and when you're annoyed/upset you tend to say things that you don't really mean. She should have calmly explained to them that while she appreciated their support there was such a thing as too much support. While I love the episode I hate that the episode made it look like Rainbow was in the wrong, because she wasn't.
Exactly the same for me! The idea of being able to tell some one how you feel about something only for people to be angry and basically blame you for having feelings is just a horrible feeling that I'm too familiar with to be able to enjoy this episode. I started thinking it's MY fault for not enjoying the harassment. Like you said, it's one of the most horrific ideas to me and I honestly started welling up in tears at the idea that the same thing is happening to her. You should never be afraid to tell people that they're pushing your boundaries... Rainbowdash did do it in a rude way but be angry about the presentation, not the message! I'm so glad some one managed to put it into better words than I ever could.
Thank you! I thought I was the only one who thought that! The part where Rainbow Dash finally barks at them, I thought this is where the parents would learn their lesson, but as well as Rainbow Dash, but instead it's made out to be Rainbow Dash who was in the wrong. It really bothered me how Scootaloo treated her right after.
Yea... That sort of overwhelming praise for hanging up a towel is appropriate for a toddler, not a grown pony like RD... It's also understandable that Scoots needs it. She's still young after all...
After watching this episode twice now, I think this Scootaloo/Rainbow Dash-centric episode is ANOTHER fantastic edition, throughout both viewings, memories of Flight to the Finish AND Sleepless in Ponyville kept popping into my head, Parental Glidance is by far Season 7's BEST EPISODE so far, it's almost flawless, it teaches two very relatable lessons from two different perspectives; Scootaloo's not given the support she NEEDED, and Rainbow getting TOO MUCH support, I relate more to Scootaloo, but I understand where Dash was coming from
Firstly, who was that purple stallion we saw from 3 all the way through S6? Second, so much for my theory on Gen3 Rainbow being our Dash's mom (maybe). 3rd WHO WAS THAT PURPLE STALLION!? It was clearly suppose to be Dash's father so this little recton urks me in an confusing way...so was her dad rectoned to be an brother? Uncle? Why update his body shape when we saw him in present last season???? Anyways I really only have 1 problem with this Ep. Dash's parents didn't learn an thing. I agree with Dashie, "how can you compare whose better at hanging an towel?" Her parents were beginning to go an little bit too far and Dash was right to her outburst, but also went too far with it. But her parents never really learnt "why" their daughter got so fed up, nope, instead Dash BECAME ONE OF THEM an little more time given to her parents would had been nice, but overall still an good Ep. Hope to see her parents again! Also as far as I know Scootaloo is the only one left (besides Silver Spoon) who we have yet to see/hear about family in over 7 years so far. Which it took us that long to see Perfect Pear so...maybe soon? P.S I had an theory where Scootaloo is an long lost Apple, her fur is very close to being AJ's I think.
I had really thought that, in the end Rainbow Dash would say to her parents something along the lines of 'Giving support in moderation and at appropriate times.' That's my personal opinion because I have known a few people that have received non-stop praise from their parents and then once they grew up into trying to be an independent adult, they just can't handle any rejection/negativity from others. Don't get me wrong though, I'm not saying that there shouldn't be any praise at all in life even if you don't win first prize... but this just has been my experience. But I totally also resonate with Scootaloo as well. I remember growing up, I only gotten praise if I was first in something (but that didn't happen often! xD) so getting such little praise throughout my childhood I have like 1% confidence in my adult life today. Teacher's too also thought that putting me down for not having confidence was going to build up my confidence in life, but it didn't!
I have a question... in previous episodes we have seen a Rainbow maned pone (Rainbow Blaze named by community) seen in the harthwarming ep and in rainbows flashback a few seasons ago. we assumed him to be rainbows father but has been thrown out the window, could he have been an older brother? would not surprise me, each of the other main 6 has a brother or sister of some sort, (Twilight and Shining, Rarity and Sweetie belle, Applejack, big mac and apple bloom, pinkie pie with her 3 sisters, and recently fluttershys brother) so why would Rainbow be the only one not to have a sibling? seems kinda odd
Literally the as the entire episode was playing, I was curled up in a ball squealing because of how adorable this was. My heart dropped when I saw dash's parents and scoots in tears after she snapped. My god it was perfect
1) Have they been confirmed dead outside of the show? Because in the show, they only said they're not here, not that they're dead. 2) SPOILER ALERT, see below. Spoiler: S07E13 will be about Applejack's parents and how they fell in love.
1) Do you know where and when? 2) I guess it'll be a flashback and I doubt that they'll take your second guess. But hell, that one would be awesome. Maybe they just went missing or something.
I agree with you! This episode is really fantastic! I love Rainbow's parents (Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistles)! They are my favourite parents of MLP! What I really would have liked about this episode if they had Bow & Windy adopt Scootaloo as their second daughter. It would have been wonderful to have Scootaloo & Rainbow Dash as *offical* sisters. That would have been just a awesome idea since Scootaloo was kinda done dirty in the last two seasons (S8 (Barring The Washouts) & S9) of the show, what with not flying and all. To me, Bow and Windy are WAY better parents for Scootaloo than... *Cough-Cough* ...Snap Shutter and Mane Allgood... But hey, that's just *my* opinion, so, I won't judge anyone else's. #Scootalove #TheDashFamily #BestSisters #BowHothoof #WindyWhistles #RainbowDash #Scootaloo #ParentalGlideance
This might be the best episode not only of the season so far, but possibly the entire series. Josh Hamilton also wrote for Avatar, Korra, and the new Voltron, and it shows in the level of heart present.
justin riley that's what I said. I didn't even know it was episode 150. And this was his DEBUT!? Dudes got some seriously good skills or some insane luck, and seeing how he wrote for Avatar it was obviously the former.
The only problem I had with this episode is how they retconned Rainbow Dash's dad's design since he appeared in a few episodes in previous seasons. They could've just kept the old design and gave him the same clothes they used for her retconned dad.
After watching this episode I saw my mom and gave her a hug and told her how much I appreciate her... This may be a show for children, but I'll tell you what, this one really caused me to appreciate the little things in life.
I've always bought into the theory that Scootaloo was an orphan, but after this episode-- specifically after her saying that no one ever supported her rather than just that she didn't have anyone-- I have a somewhat different impression. (This is gonna play out like a fanfic premise I'm sure but sssh.) So now, an episode I would love to see would be one where we meet Scootaloo's parent or parents (for simplicity's sake in this example, I'll say a single parent), and find out that they're incredibly neglectful. I know this is dark but stay with me for a second. We've seen very toxic parenting before with Diamond Tiara, and heck, an opportunity for Scootaloo and DT to bond post-DT-redemption might be nice as well. But! What I'd like to see is Scootaloo having always been afraid to say anything, and when it finally comes to light, Dash's family taking her in or trying to. In keeping with the idealistic nature of MLP, this sparks her blood parent to realize and finally care what they've lost, and they try to convince her to stay or something of that nature in a selfish "she's mine and you can't take her" way, but by the end of the episode Scootaloo standing up for herself and others coming to her aid and the parent _actually_ seeing the error of their ways. The ideal ending for me would be Scootaloo ends up moving in with Rainbow or her parents and being with a (found) family who loves her, while her blood parent sincerely apologizes and things between them being in sort of a state of "we can work on making amends, slowly, from a distance, if you're willing to keep at it and respect my boundaries". Such that her parent is painted as _redeemable,_ but not yet _redeemed;_ someone who messed up badly enough that just being apologetic doesn't come close to making things okay, but not a total monster or caricature. ;w; It would be a way to tell a delicate story about getting out of a bad situation and show that the family you choose and who chooses you is more valuable than the one you're born into, while keeping the sense of MLP idealism that doing a bad thing doesn't mean you'll always be a bad person and promoting the idea that everyone deserves a second chance, while at the same time subverting their usual portrayal of that idea with the addendum that some second chances might take a lot longer the achieve than others and that's okay, too. You don't have to forgive someone right away just because they're sorry, and loving someone doesn't mean you can't distance yourself from them if it's healthier for you. .... I have put way too much thought into this and I love Scootaloo a lot.
Growing up, I actually got to experience both too much praise and no praise at all from both my parents. Horribly, I happened to get the too much praise treatment when I didn't want it and I got the no praise at all when I did. I came from a rather athletic or "sports fever" family so my parents really wanted me to get into sports even though I absolute hated sports and totally sucked at it. And any sport I did show any real interest in I was denied either because it was out of their budget or they didn't believe I'd actually continue liking it. So agreeing on something to pursue with pride wasn't easy. My parents always praised me when I did well in something I hated such as sports but I was kinda ignored when I did my best but ultimately failed at when doing something I loved. Nowadays, I finally get praise from my parents when I do something I love and they no longer pressure me to do something they think would be good for me even though I have absolutely no interest in it at all . . . most of the time, anyway. I guess the best example I have of something like this that has recently happened to me was when I graduated from my college program. My parents were so proud of me but I didn't feel like I was ready to leave yet. I'm actually still not ready to leave even though I've already graduated. I really like school and want to continue my studies even though most people would be thrilled that that part of their life is over. Luckily, my parents understood this and decided to pick up a sheet that had a list of classes I could take during the fall. I don't know if I'll do well in my new classes, but I'm really looking forward to them. I just hope my parents give me the appropriate amount of support for it.
I love that Derpy of all Ponies, was at some point BETTER at flying than Rainbow Dash "Yeah, it's a mystery" :D
JPonyLoco rainbow dash, spitfire, and soarin
That makes 2 main characters she's outshined briefly in her youth now. First beating Rarity in her go cart category and now Rainbow Dash. I wonder if it's going to be a trend. Are we later going to learn that she won a science fair with a baking soda volcano or drove a flock of sheep into a pen perfectly while looking for the snack cart? The possibilities are endless.
So... Rainbow Dash actually has crossed paths with Lightning Dust before? AND Filly Spitfire AND Colt Soarin? Filly Spitfire was especially ADORABLE :D
JPonyLoco I Still can't believe that they are so close to age!
JPonyLoco
Well remember she was flying in the senior flyers group. Meaning Spitfire, Derpy, ext are all older than her. If you look close everyone on the podium is slightly taller than Rd
Matthew Hilliker oh!
It's more the Lightning Dust thing, since in Wonderbolt Acamedy they've clearly never met prior to that episode, but I suspect it was a easter egg they added OR more likely, they've never OFFICIALLY met til Wonderbolt Academy
I'd say they are at least 5-10 years older, it'll vary, Spitfire is probably the oldest.
I hope we get more character development from scootaloo.
Joshua Pyun Me too.
Animation Fan We got to see her "house" back in Flight to the Finish so we might see her parents or guardian soon. Part of me wants her to fly and another part doesn't. Her not being able to fly could show kids that if you do have a disability that doesn't mean that you can't do great things and achieve your dreams but the half is like I really want her to fly as it's always been something she's wanted and having her never achieve that dream is a bit heartbreaking. Either way, I'm fine with either option as long as it's executed well.
she is an orphhan comfirmed
It isn't confirmed that she's an orphan. She said that she wished that she had supportive parents, I took it to mean that she has parents but they aren't supportive. Plus this is a cartoon, I doubt that they'd make a young character like Scootaloo an orphan.
Not quite, though they generally teased it. She didn't actually say she lost her parents, she just said she didn't have parents that supported her.
Talking about subtle backstory, did you see the progression of Derpy's/Muffin's Handicap during RD's flashback. When combined with the hospital scene from a previous episode it looks like the MLP staff are slowly telling us another story.
yy bet is that they tried to stop it and failed
I'm surprised you didn't mention how Derpy used to be a better flyer than rainbow Dash, Lightning Dust, and the Wonderbolts before she began to become cross eyed. I think it was kinda clever.
She was older, more experienced and may of, just may of done it by mistake. No Derpy hater but can almost see her winning something by mistake.
A Brony I never even noticed until you pointed it out. I now want a fanfic where Derpy isn't cross-eyed and forms a privatized flying organization that becomes superior to the Wonder Bolts. Imagine a first-person comedy following Rainbow Dash trying to join this new organization.
maybe, but if that was the case, it would be more likely that she would be at the top once, then be at the bottom, and her eyes would probably always been "derpped" (can't think of proper terminology) instead of progressively worse and progressively losing standing
Plus, Dash kinda knew all of them before hand. That's also very interesting.
It reminded me of that Flashback scene from A Cart Before the Ponies when Derpy beats Rarity lol.
That look on Scootaloo's face at the end when all three were hoisting her up. You can literally hear her thoughts,"This is what its like to be in a family." while holding back tears of joy.
i completely agree with what ypu said doc i especially loved the ending when Dash and her parents cheered for scootaloo it was so heartwarming and it really made her feel special and happy with that smile she gave but i did find an easter egg that i find very interesting when derpy was on top her eyes were perfectly normal but the more she went down on the pedestal the more her eyes became like we see them today what do you think about this?
This episode brought soo many memories from growing up in school and sports. I've had a very hard life since I'm hard of hearing and have a very different personality from others which lead to bullying. but the whole time my parents supported me which helped. eventually I moved to a deaf school where life got better. I played basketball and at almost all games my parents especially my dad was there cheering in the crowd. my favorite memory was when I was heading down the court with the ball and my dad was actually yelling louder than the crowd. so loud that both me and some hearing impaired teammates heard him. we were all laughing. I'm glad to have had that support and this is most definitely one of my favorite episodes.
I loved this episode, and it is totally something people can relate to. My parents used to applaud me for everything as a toddler, and filmed every little thing I do. I guess I did take that for granted, seeing as my younger siblings never had that luxurity.
With how much the writers enjoy showing characters as Fillies and Colts, it surprises me we haven't gotten a 'Turned Young' episode, Discord could pretend he's lost control of his magic and turns the Mane Six into Fillies, and it becomes up to Luna and Celestia, to help change them back, while the Filly Mane Six get into hilarious adorable shenanigans around Canterlot, just a fun episode I'd enjoy seeing
JPonyLoco me too
JPonyLoco, That would be cool
intresting. but one question. would the magic make the mane 6 a filly version of them now, or make them go back in time to become a filly.
just thought about it because of Twilight's wings and stuff. would her wings still be there when she becomes a filly again?
Filly version's of themselves now, imagine the mischeif that Filly Alicorn Twilight could get up to, I'm guessing you don't like Twilight being an Alicorn?
oh, i love Twilight beeing an Alicorn :D
i liked the episode, however i dont like the moral.
i mean its true that rainbow was wrong but not all the way.
i mean her parents almost seriously injured someone with the fire works.
i hoped she would just tell them to turn down a bit.
and we could get to see scootalo's parents
OH MY LUNA I LOVED THIS EPISODE TOO!!!!
There is a difference between support and telling your kid that everything they do is gold.
What had my attention was the Wonderbolts reactions to Dash's parents and their support. They didn't look annoyed and such. I would've liked it if some of them like Spitfire tell Rainbow Dash their parents were just the same when they became Wonderbolts. As a means to show her they've been there, like with Rainbow's embarrassing nickname.
I did find myself enjoying the episode overall, but I am of the crowd that finds the parents' excitement to be too much. For much of their time on the screen, I often thought to myself, "You two are adults; act like adults."
I like the subtle hints of Scootaloo's backstory, but I hope that it gets elaborated further. Like, what if both of her parents are Earth Ponies, and therefore she might not know how to fly because her parents never taught her? I think there is such a thing as limbs not being developed due to lack of use.
Part of me flinches a little, though, in reaction to Scootaloo's fangasming over Rainbow. She hasn't done it to this degree since..."Mysterious Mare-Do-Well". Five seasons ago.
But I think the best thing about this episode is how they explained why Rainbow's parents were never introduced until now. The fact that Rainbow hasn't even been talking to her parents also explained something that I had found weird until now: why did she move to Ponyville on her birthday as stated in "Pinkie's Pride"? Knowing that Rainbow is a pony of action, it would make sense that she would move out as soon as she was adult age without thinking about the effect that would have on her parents.
This episode kept me laughing to the floor on how amazing the writing is
I loved this episode so much! It was a great explanation as to why we haven't seen Rainbow's parents before, and Scootaloo's perspective was a wonderful touch. And now we know where Rainbow got her ego from. lmao!
And I think it would be really cool for them to eventually directly address Scootaloo's parent's in a future episode. Maybe address the fact that they are never present in her life and have some sort of lesson about that. I mean it is fairly common for children to have absent parents so an episode like that could do some good for those children(and maybe even any parents watching as well).
Also I think we can safely say Derpy was not born wall-eyed and I would really like a back story about what happened to her.
I love this episode too!
I think it's great that we get to see Rainbow's parents. I guess some parents do support their children. What is up with the Rainbow Dah and the parents supporting Scootaloo at the end? Is Scootaloo the actual winner of the race in "The Cart Before The Ponies"? I just keep my theory of Applebloom winning that race until the episode reveals the winner. Nice work with Rainbow Dash's parents. I'll be waiting to see Applejack's parents up next.
Am I the ONLY one that saw the "descending"of Derpy Hooves? Check, her eyes and mane looked different from first to last.
Thinking about this episode made me finally realized why I enjoy this show. Not the relatable characters and moments, not the adventures, not the slice of life, but the moments that are simply fun to watch. And it's something this series has no short supply of. Even the first Equestria Girls movie that so many hate is really fun to watch, I've seen it almost as many times than ACRacebest has seen Zootopia. If I ever make a second attempt at Brony Analysis, my "analysis" will be about how fun episodes are.
I agree with you on much of the points you've brought up on the episode. Though I felt giving Rainbow's parents a private show while a sweet gesture was not really the way to set things right. Rainbow Dash had reason to be upset at her parents for their behavior and while Scootaloo's statements about them being supportive were poignant. What I feel really should have happened is Rainbow Dash meeting up with her parents and having an actual sit down with them by saying that she does appreciate the support they give her, but their enthusiasm comes across as too strong. And that is what bothers her about them knowing she is a wonderbolt.
Oh but it was. It got her parents to *experience* the embarrassment of being overly cheered. Who says they didn't talk a bit after that? We're cut off straight to Scootaloo's report and getting the cheering she had missed her entire life. Anyway, just because Cheerilee didn't appreciate Scootaloo expressing herself mainly trough photography and samples doesn't mean it was a bad report...
I noticed her dad looks like the same pony Rainbow was with at the " Games Pony Play " Episode, I wonder if it's her dad at a very very young age.
yes it's the same pony when he was way young
knew it :3
I think I heard someone say it was someone else. I think "father figure" to RD was the words they used, like an uncle or something.
Really, I think the writers were on the fence about his character design back then and this is the new and improved version, since we see how he looks when she's a little filly through the flashbacks.
Apparently according to the official card game, that guy was actually Rainbow Blaze, Rainbow's mentor, not dad.
well the card game had some random flies,so the show did proof that he isnt her mentor at all,but if u belive the cards,then its your proof.
I think RD did nothing wrong when she yelled at her parents, am I the only one who thought so?
Judging by the reaction here, definitely not.
I agree very much. In fact her parents should have been arrested for assault, public endangerment, trespassing, and even terrorism (they shot the Wonderbutts down). And even Scootaloo is bad in here.
Toonkriticy2k is going to LOVE this episode I imagine.
or at least CartoonZ wont give it too much flac
I honestly felt that Scootaloo over reacted after Rainbow's outburst. I applaud Rainbow Dash, her parents needed to hear the brutal truth.
2:55
Speaking of Vapour Trail and Sky Stinger, keep an eye out for them in this episode!
I loved how Derpy was the best flyer at one point and then we progressively saw her getting more and more crossed eye.
Now we just need Scootaloo's parents! :D
no stupid
Yea-- maybe in an episode where RD's parents adopt her? They already seem to be getting close, and even little Dashie already considers her a sister of sorts...
And Apple Jack's parents...
onealone 3886
Guess what? Season 7, Episode 13
I'm still calling Bowhot Hoof "Rainbow Dad".
Best of all, this actually makes writing fanfiction much easier (as now I'll just make Firefly Scootaloo's birth mom like in the MotherlyScootaloo ask blog).
Scootaloo : *showing the pictures about RD's story in the Wonderbolts*
Me : "How the hay did you take those picture?"
Honestly, this is the on of the most relatable episodes to me, just below A Royal Problem. Definitely a good episode, but I am one of those people who nitpicked the WAY over the top scenes. Other than that, great episode!
Can't wait to hear Josh talk about this one. Especially the parts where civilians get onto a military base and very rudely intrude on the locker room.
Tristan Milner Definitely!
I loved this episode a lot too. It can be a tough balance between too much support and no support at all, but Rainbow's parents were just amazing. I'd love to meet Scootaloo's family someday or at least find out exactly what her home situation is like, but for now, she was great.
Whilst this episode is AMAZING and my fave of the season so far, I would have liked RD's parents to learn something. Their supportiveness was great, but when it started interrupting Wonderbolts practice, distracting and embarassing Rainbow so much that she couldn't concentrate and cut off Spitfires tail, or ruined her fan's photo signing... it was too much and I thought they needed to learn their actions were having negative effects, as they could have gotten her into a lot of trouble. I found it a bit unsettling how in the flashback, their cheering made the other pegasus kids annoyed and they all left Rainbow on the podium looking miserable and lonely even though she'd finally won. It's like she could have been isolated among her peers because of them. I love them as characters but I thought a calm discussion about how RD knows how supportive they are and doesn't need them to express it so much, especially at times she needs to focus, would have been nice at the end.
I felt that it was too heavy handed with the moral. I admit my parents were not every supporting when I was growing up. Even I have more sympathy for Rainbow in this situation. They went lil too far. They were shooting fireworks into the air and were a distraction to the point of being dangerous. Their devotion was on level of fanatic. The moral is saying its okay to go overboard and ignore the person's feelings as long as you mean to be supportive.
I really enjoyed this episode. My only small "neigh" for this episode are the reactions of Rainbow Dash's parents who could be at times a bit over the top (I also would have liked a more explicit sign from their part that they did recognize their mistakes).
But my second and main "neigh" is the appearance of Spitfire, Soarin and other wonderbolts during the flashback. I mean I understand that they were still older than Rainbow Dash but how could they knew her back then and not remember her back in season 1?
But that doesn't make the episode any less good
I really do love this episode, but the only nitpick I have is when Rainbow Dash was telling Scootaloo about her progression as a flyer. It was nice to see Spitfire, Soarin, and Fleetfoot as foals, but it confuses me why they don't remember how loud Rainbow's parents could be in the present when they were there during all of her Senior circuit races.
Everyone: One of the best episodes of the show!
Me: Could have been a LOT better if Rainbow Dash's parents weren't so intrusive.
It's at this point I started to think that may be the orange chickens hero worship has gone to full-blown obsession. Also if those Princess commemorative plates came out once per year have been a complete collection must be quite difficult.
Also I just know Someones going to make a Ark of the covenant joke at some point (I am typing this before any Review have come out just in case I called it)
I'm also beginning to see where the ego comes from....... actually this one episode completely explains everything about RD's character.
But in all honesty I don't think she was completely wrong in this episode, heck you could argue the whole reason why her ego gets out of control so often was because of her overbearing parents. I personally don't like it when to listen is completely one-sided when it's obvious both sides needed to learn something.
I really enjoyed this episode. I just wish that the apology from Rainbow Dash seemed more elongated, and just genuine. I know she was really sorry, but it felt like it was rushed a little. I did love this episode nevertheless. 😁
The only problem I have with this episode, and I know that a LOT of people will disagree with me here, is how they treat Rainbow Dash like the "Villain". The rage scene is ABSOLUTELY understandable with how the parents were acting. Maybe the tone could've been different but come on.
I was waiting to see you review this!!! you are one of my favorite mlp reviewers. !!!
"Great job yelling at us sweety, no one can make their parents feel more worthless, than you."
That hurt!
I think this episode needed to tone down the set-up drastically, and spend time showing and not telling during the part where Rainbow supposedly makes it up to her parents for "taking them for granted", even though that isn't what she did. The conflict was way too one sided in Rainbow Dash's favor, and apparently it's supposed to EXPLAIN how she became such an egotistical jerk, but it feels kind of like the show staff fishing for an excuse. It seems like having friends and being in The Wonderbolts has helped Rainbow Dash to learn more than her parents ever taught her.
This was just a fantastic episode and Rainbow Dash's parents was just awesome 10/10 ^^ And thats all I have to say ^^
I can relate some way to this specially the way my mum been supportive over the years with my difficulties. Wasn't for her showing me that if I push for what I can stride for I can reach that goal back when I was in school to uni. Even after that I feel good and happy for what my mum had done.
My only concern with this episode...Scootaloo now owns one of Rainbow Dash's diapers.
Hm. I can't say that I much care for this episode.
Don't get me wrong, the jokes are funny, the plot is good, the characterization is on point, and Rainbow Dash's parents are entertaining! It's more what the episode, and RD's parents, represent. See, over-encouragement is exactly what the baby boomer generation thinks is wrong with kids nowadays. Participation awards are a confidence booster, but they also make us lazy, complacent, and self-entitled (according to them). I can't say I like it either, but for different reasons: for me, participation awards are more of a prize for the PARENT, not the child. A sort of, "Congratulations! You've validated your child and prevented crushing their self-esteem!" Growing up, I wasn't exactly the most athletic kid, but my parents put me in a lot of children's sports activities. Thus, I got a whole lot of participation awards.
I was not fooled. I knew that everyone got these prizes, and they were essentially worthless. But Mom and Dad always seemed so happy when I went back to them after receiving one, so I just shrugged and put it up on the ledge with the other five dozen exact same participation awards.
My problem is, the episode validates this kind of behavior! "Rainbow Dash's parents coddled her! They supported her no matter what, and suffocated her with praise! And look how SHE turned out!" The inclusion of Scootaloo, I think, hurts it a little, because while understandable, it draws the inevitable comparison: Scootaloo had no one growing up, and she's basically a cripple!
This is NOT OKAY. This is saying that your parents' support is basically the only thing that can push you to greatness. I'm not saying it's wrong for a parent to support their child, I'm saying it's wrong to do it like this, giving them so much praise all the time that all their actual achievements become essentially meaningless! Hanging up a towel? Really???
But I get it. The show is written by today's parents; the ones who raised their kids like this. The ones who saw this system and thought it worked. And most of the reviewers, such as the good doctor here, are looking through those same eyes. They think it's right, even healthy!
Well I'm here to tell you that it doesn't matter. Despite my MOUNTAINS of soccer participation awards, I'm not a soccer player. I got so many awards and so much praise for my at best decent playing that soccer has become essentially worthless to me. That's all that this kind of parenting does: it cheapens the sense of achievement one gets from accomplishing something hard by giving it exactly the same reward as hanging up a towel. This episode advocates a system that DOESN'T WORK and leads to a generation of manic-depressive, stressed out, nihlistic freaks of nature we call the millennials. Thanks, guys.
You summed up my thoughts perfectly, my dear sir.
Rainbow could've just as well turned out as another Zephyr Breeze. And no one wants another Zephyr Breeze.
Too right!
AGREED. Too much support cripples development.
So does too little support.
I sympathize with Scootaloo because she's got NOTHING from her family, and only has her friends/Rainbow to support her.
I also sympathize with Rainbow Dash, because even getting Scootaloo more than anyone should, I don't want the excessive support that cripples emotional development.
Well, screw you too.
There should be more episodes about parents, then.
On Scootaloo's home life, I liked seeing that she does have a place to live, seen in 'Flight to the Finish,' and liked hearing (not liked liked, but glad to have some background information, if you know what I mean) that she's not really getting any encouragement at home, but as for why she's not getting any encouragement and if/how this may relate to her inability to fly is something I hope they SHOW in an episode. Hell, they still need to explain why her parents weren't there when she got her cutie mark. I can't imagine an orphanage would allow a child to be running all over town and beyond without supervision, so she must be living with one relative or another, so why did no one come for that once-in-a-lifetime event?
I kinda wanna see an episode that focus on Scootaloo's... home. Whether she's an actual orphan or in a neglectful home. I think it would be brave of them to do an episode like that. It can relate to some kids if done right.
Like nothing too over the top but, a mild take?
Idk how to describe it...
Its a HUGE problem that we never get the parents getting some of the blame. Like they were yes annoying but also straight up rude and disruptive to other people. And when rainbow says all her problems with her parents she is apparently in the wrong
My jaw dropped right when Scoodaloo mentioned her lack of parental support. It has given me a hunger for knowledge, I REALLY hope we get to meet Scoodaloo's family soon.
Definitely makes up for Newbie Dash by a longshot. As a side note, Amy Rose is one of my favorite characters, so you can see why this is one of my favorites this season.
Definitely agree with you, makes up for Newbie Dash big time.
blaa6 I personally thought Newbie Dash was a stronger episode. I am curious as to why you dislike it.
It wasn't funny. I felt really bad for Dash and the fact that she said nothing about how the nickname was from her childhood made me feel uncomfortable.
blaa6 That's a fair point, but I thought it was a good lesson on how hazing is just part of life. While it wasn't giving me good laughs a whole lot, the story was what really pulled the episode thru.
Shall we agree to disagree then?
I enjoyed the parents as characters and liked the episode, but it falls into that stupid trope of a character or characters doing something annoying, then the main character gets (rightfully) mad at them for being annoying, they get upset for some reason and the main character is somehow in the wrong. While Rainbow could have been more honest with them, I kind of think that good parents should be able to tell when they're making their child and others uncomfortable.
Personally, I actually hated this episode. Don't get me wrong, it was hilarious, it had some great moments a wonderful conflict and I appreciate what the MLP staff was trying to say with the message, but… NO. THIS IS A HORRIBLE MESSAGE FOR BOTH PARENTS AND KIDS.
I'm sorry, I can understand a supportive family and that you should be kind, respectful and overall grateful to your parents/parental figures. But the way that Rainbow's parents went about it was TOO FAR. And worse off, they clearly didn't even learn their own lesson. The episode goes, Rainbow, you should appreciate your family no matter how disruptive (thunder during Wonderbolts practice), endangering (unscheduled fireworks during the actual show), or ridiculous (How do you measure how great one hangs a towel?) they become.
I'm sorry, but no. Even the way that her parents encouraged her was WRONG. Yes, be supportive, but don't praise your kids for every little thing as if they were the absolute best thing since sliced bread Especially for coming in LAST PLACE. Encourage them to work even harder to achieve their goal, but don't make them delusional about it. Seriously, I am surprised that Rainbow didn't wind up like Sky Stinger.
Before this episode, Rainbow's haughty nature made sense because she was actually capable of many great feats, which gave her a big head. But this episode makes it seem like that haughty nature was all due to her parents praising her until she became something between Trixie and Top Bolt's Sky Stinger. but just so happened to have the potential/skills to back it up. That's the only thing that ruined it for me. The parents should have learned their lesson too. You know, something about moderation and self-control.
As such, (for me at least) this episode became just as bad as… Applejack's portrayal from Somepony to Watch Over Me except without her learning her lesson and instead scolding Applebloom for her desire to be treated like an adult.
Yea, the AJ in Somepony to Watch Over Me was crazy, so is this. Actually I'd like to see AJ, Twilight, Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy meeting them... (Fluttershy might have already, her parents live in Cloudsdale too but the rest...) Has AJ ever met them?
Anyway, apparently they praise RD more out of loyalty than any sort of actual deed...
I like the idea that Scoots is a foster child or someone being raised by distant parents or relatives and that Rainbow's parents being so familial to her is a sign that they already view her as part of their family.
3:10 Look at how after each race, the characters change by 1 position.
Derpy USED to be the best in RD's class, but transitioned slowly to the bottom.
AMAZING CAMEO!
Something interesting that wasn't really addressed in this episode is that RD's parents are probably the reason she has such a problem with humility. It's true her parents gave her a lot of confidence but also a lot of overconfidence. That's really an episode of its own though so I won't hold it against the episode. Plus it's nice to have another foal version of one of the Mane 6...but that does muddle the eye question more.
At this point I don't know what is worst, Scootaloo being an orphan or that her parents doesn't even care about her
Spoilers for ep.
Doctor Wolf. I'm a little shocked you did go deeper into what Scootaloo said. I think this is the closest We'll get to hearing Scootaloo is an Orphan, based on how she reacted to Rainbow's parents and how she reacted to Dash for yelling at them. I really think this was Scootaloo say (as G rated as possible) that she doesn't HAVE parents
I read that Lauren Faust stated that Scootaloo *did* have parents - they just had really demanding jobs and couldn't be around a lot. And that Scootaloo was good at evading her babysitter. XD
Scootaloo is not an orphan! She said that she wished that she had supportive parents. Meaning she has parents just not supportive ones, which makes sense as to why they're never shown. I hate the fan made theory that Scootaloo is an orphan.
why?
Sidney Westcomb, I don no
Book Lover
Well the orphan hero is very popular in media Xp
Just look at Harry Potter or Naruto
I don't care for the "Abused" Scootaloo theory but I think Scootaloo being an Orphan makes sense.
I also like the "Scootaloo can never fly" theory because I'm disabled and I like seeing a disabled kid in media that isn't treated any differently. She gets into occasional mischief but is at her core a good person who works hard.
She struggles with her desire to fly even after she accepts it but she doesn't let it hold her back and no one pities her.
I guess I just find the possibility she is an Orphan to give her even more depth, possibly the reason no one will adopt her is because she can't fly
Hey did anyone see the BG pony developments? Like, did you notice the lower Derpy got on the podiums, the more derp she got? There's alot of backstory coming from Derpy in the BG! Dr. Wolf, you gotta analyze that!
Also, did anyone notice Thunderlane is a FULL Wonderbolt now?! :O
I would also like an episode that explains Scootaloo’s story, she is one of my favorite ponies rights next to Fizzlepop Berrytwist aka Tempest, what is the deal with her parents did they abandon her? Are they just absentee parents? Are they ashamed that their daughter can’t fly. Does Scootaloo have a birth defect or an illness?
I related a lot with Rainbow Dash this episode. I'm quite familiar with the concept of having most, if not every thing you do be rewarded with (often undeserved) praise, so much so that when you actually do something important, the praise just feels empty, making you question what was even the point in the first place. I kind of wish the episode focused a little more on that aspect, maybe have the parents realize that what they thought was helpful may have actually had an inverse effect or something like that, but I digress. I still really liked the episode. The writing was great, and I suppose the moral was still nice, even if it didn't mainly focus on the part that specifically relates to me, which I currently consider to be more of a "me problem".
+Mr. Porkirby Yeah, I agree! When I first heard about this episode I thought it was going to have a lot of cringe worthy moments, but I surprisingly enjoyed it. However I am slightly conflicted by the moral. Similar to you I had some very unique experiences growing up when it came to this topic. I was never that good at sports as a kid and whenever I lost at something I used to get really annoyed when people started to give me praise for it. "You did really well!" I just used to think to myself "Well how did they come to that conclusion? I lost! Surely if I'd had done well I would have won!" Luckily I was spared the mortification of receiving a "Participation Award" which I think should be banned by the way (seriously, they're supposed to make kids feel better about not winning, but it's essentially like putting a massive sign on their head saying "I LOST! I'M A LOSER!") And then on the other hand, when I found stuff that I was good at, and would win, I got barely any praise at all. In fact other kids would hate me for winning something that they wanted, so I just figured none of this was worth it!
I have to agree too. If EVERYTHING is praised as "special" then the very concept of the word loses all meaning and makes the things that actually ARE special and important not seem like it. RD's parents really need to get their act together and learn their lesson. This kind of overly crazed fanatic behavior isn't healthy. For them, for RD, and for everyone around them. RD needs her parents to be PARENTS not fans. They were idolizing her rather instead of being proper parents. Not to mention how blind they were to her feelings and how uncomfortable they were making her. If they'd paid attention, it might not have gotten to the point where she had to yell at them just to get them to realize. They were way too blind about it and it bugs me. And one would think that Scootaloo would at least better notice, but no... she was just as blind as them. She's not this blind to RD's feelings in other episodes, as far as I know. At least not to this extent. So, why was she so much blinder in this episode? It really bugs me.
Well I see that as *baby* treatment. It'd be fine cheering Flurry Heart for hanging up a towel... not Rainbow though. There was a LOT about their "delicate" relationship that Scootaloo didn't understand. She cannot, because *she* never had support, (probably not even *parents*). Also, you can't blame the young for not understanding how the older ones think...
After that little chat... how Scoots was NEVER told she's best at anything -- "I need to make things right". (It wasn't JUST the parents but Scootaloo too, not that Scoots really got that). Sending Scoots to go with them -- And RD's parents actually played their part, calling Scootaloo makes the best blindfold knots (they just exaggerate that way about EVERYTHING). And yes, the announcement, and the Super-Private Wonderbolt Event for them -- RD's very fast talk -- and the BIG show just for them (really liked that clouds + heart thing).
Rainbow did it this way because -- this way, her parents got to experience the embarrassing amount of spotlight and really get that it was too much they were doing.
And Rainbow actually HAD to do it that way. It's an "apology" mainly to soothe Scootaloo; and Big Show to get her REAL message to them. Like the entire Ponyville did to Rainbow in 28 pranks later. Rainbow just couldn't understand what a 'prank gone too far' means until she had *experienced* it as the target. Apparently her parents are the same way. They can't understand "too much support is embarrassing" until they *experience* it. Giving Scoots that cheering (to the annoyance of CheeryLee) was good ending.
I think people are too hyped by the reveal of something we've wanted to see to notice the obvious flaw in this. Support of this level is dangerous. We've seen Rainbow Dash be arrogant and hard headed in the past and we've hated that, but how do you think she got that way? Maybe by having parents who told her that every single thing she did was the best thing ever? This is a terrible moral, saying that it's okay to turn children into arrogant assholes who think they're the best at everything because you're just trying to support them. With how much Rainbow actually lost as a filly, we're lucky she didn't shut down and give up because she felt she could live up to her parents expectations.
Honestly, there are dozens of ways that this level of support can go wrong and if it had been anyone except Rainbow Dash, it probably would have. The moral should have been for the parents to calm the hell down. Rainbow was completely justified in going off on them. They were telling her she was the best at hanging TOWELS.
Very true.
David Huntsinger OR...people legitimately love this episode.
To me, this only makes it even more of a point to bring Scootaloo into the front for her family. For either the neglectful parent story, or for the Orphan story. There is a lot there that can be taught, and just might help children her age find solace.
I love her parents! They're so endearing, and I can totally see why she became such a sportsy pony. Some may think that they're super annoying, but in my opinion, they're just hyped up enough.
I'm glad you enjoyed it Doc, as did I! I didn't know what too expect from her folks but felt some of what did come were going too be elements and I loved at how the story was about RD and her folks it was told from Scootaloo's perspective for the most part... it just worked and I was REALLY hoping she'd play a major part. And I'd love too see more of her backstory, but not thrown at us like a ton of bricks, in elements.
This reminded me of an episode of the Recess cartoon with a member of the gang having over bearing parents just like Dash, just not as extreme.
That was Spinelli
Spinelli and Gretchen, yeah I remember that episode. I love(ed) Recess!
+Book Lover classic show, there were a couple of other eps as well
Yup; I remember watching that cartoon every Saturday and then after school as well. XD.
Honestly, I don't think this episode is as great compared to your enthusiasm and your opinion.
I really think that Rainbow Dash shouldn't be taking all the blame from Scootaloo since she's the one who started it and brought her parents around. It felt somewhat forced.. The ridiculous, over-the-top support from her parents feels somewhat predictable for the conflict. I also find when the RD's parents behaved and reacted after getting snapped and fed up by their daughter, for being parents...they acted too childish and immature for their own age. I also believe you should respect RD's privacy life and not go blabbering to the others without her permission. However, since Scootaloo was just trying to do a school report of her idol and without knowing, it's understandable from her point of view. But seeing her idol that had supporting parents was her dream that she wished she had was her ideal point of view and then realizing not everything is all "sunshine and rainbows" with Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo's naivete caught her off guard. The only thing that I like from this episode is the hints for a possible setup of Scootaloo's unknown backstory.
Well, your loss.
I love this episode! I know how it feels to have parents who are too supportive and you just want them to leave you alone with things, but at the same time you feel bad if you make them do so.
This episode made me laugh so much. Although Scootaloo actually got me annoyed at her a little bit. She was completely blind to Rainbow's discomfort of how her parents acted and when Rainbow did tell her how she felt Scootaloo didn't seem to understand why Rainbow's parents being too supportive is a bad thing. And then the ending of the episode made it look like Rainbow was in the wrong with how she acted, but I think that Rainbow was in the right. Maybe not in the way that she did it, but having people who are too supportive is way too much. Heck we even see that in Top Bolt with Vapor Trail's background. But, regardless I love this episode. There were so many laughs that I had in this episode. Although I know that people will think that Scootaloo don't have parents is canon because of her line, but note she means that she doesn't have supportive parents, she has parents just not supportive parents. I just hate the Scootaloo is a orphan theory. But yeah, I love this episode. Don't know where I'd place it, but it's up there. And yeah the door opening and music playing killed me, loved it.
Agreed
I haven't seen this episode yet, but there's on thing I would like to see addressed, and that's how too much hollow or vapid praise can actually damage one's ego by demeaning the impact and personal value of genuine positive criticisms.
This took the fourth spot in my favorite MLP season 7 list
It was very impressive with all the wing movements as if they were hands.
The episode was worth it for Scootaloo's Charlie Brown smile at the end.
As for Scoot's backstory...I think her parents realized early that she wasn't going to be able to fly. Rather than raise her in Cloudsdale (where she'd be an object of ridicule, as well as it being actually dangerous for a non-flier), they moved to Ponyville. Now, I think her mom and dad still have jobs in Cloudsdale, which means they're away a lot. I don't think she's going to end up being an orphan (that's Applebloom's jam), but we could see an episode dealing with her being a latchkey kid.
This is the Rainbow Dash episode that I think every brony/pegasister has been waiting for. It's sad that most of Rainbow's recent episodes were either meh or barely passable. I don't know who they hired to write this episode, but boy, give that person a medal. This has been, by far, the most entertaining Rainbow Dash episode I've seen in a while, maybe even for the entire series.
One cool little thing I noticed at the episode's start was that despite this being an RD episode, we don't see her until after the first third! The entire first third only features Scootaloo and RD's parents showing us some of RD's childhood and backstory. (Also, all you brony cooks, get to making a recipe of RD's favorite sandwich IMMEDIATELY. They shall be served at EVERY con!) I find it to be a very clever choice to insert Scootaloo in this story. They way she flips out when she sees the ponies responsible for bringing her inspiration into the world, along with seeing where her inspiration was raised, you couldn't help but smile a mile wide along with her. That will forever be ingrained in Scootaloo's memory, and it makes for a classic scene.
As for RD's parents, I was also fairly entertained. I read the synopsis for the episode beforehand and had an idea of how they were going to act. Some of the time, they acted just as I predicted, which at times, was a bit annoying. But then there were other times where I was a bit surprised. The scene where Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistle run off crying after RD yells at them was sad, but in an over-the-top hilarious kind of way. Kind of reminds me of how Fluttershy yelled at Pinkie Pie and Rarity in "Putting Your Hoof Down."
I also found the bits with Derpy in them were genius and hilarious. Who would've thought she used to be a better flyer than the likes of RD, Spitfire, Soarin, and Lightning Dust! And how they gradually develop the derp in her eyes was funny, but also a bit tragic, too. You REALLY wanna know what happened to her during her fillyhood. Oh, and the three bullies from the Sonic Rainboom episode? Were they...NOT being mean to RD? That's interesting...
I do have a couple of minor nitpicks with this episode, though. One is, how in the world have Bow and Windy been so out of the loop with the Wonderbolts? I know the episode explains that RD's refusing to tell them was the reason for this, but still. Wouldn't something like RD becoming a Wonderbolt appear on the front page of a newspaper of something? Seeing how big a Wonderbolt fan their daughter was, wouldn't they have shown enough interest to stay tuned in on when the Wonderbolts would perform next? Again, the reason they do give in the episode is acceptable, but looking back, it's still a bit weak.
The other nitpick I have, surprisingly, is with the moral. Don't get me wrong, it's a good moral and it makes perfect sense. You really should be grateful for the support you have from friends and family, even if it seems overwhelming and embarrassing at times. What I have a bit of a problem with is how we got to learning that moral. I was actually totally siding with RD when she finally exploded in anger and frustration on her parents (and quite honestly, I don't think I've ever seen her so mad before). When Scootaloo scolded at RD for her actions, I was surprised she didn't see things from her idol's point of view. Granted, they do talk about this to some degree later on, but I felt like it shouldn't have been Scootaloo giving the lesson here. Again, don't get me wrong here, it's a great idea to have the kid teach the adult a lesson every once in a while, and the lesson Scootaloo teaches is brilliant. I just feel like it would've made more sense for RD to talk to her parents in private, tell her feelings to them in a calmer tone, and come to an understanding with them. Bow and Windy could still cheer for her at the top of their lungs, but maybe just for when she performs with the Wonderbolts. (Seriously, best TOWEL hanger ever? REALLY?? Did they really have to exaggerate it THAT much??)
Despite these nitpicks, this episode still a bona-fide gem to watch, and again, might be the best RD episode I've ever seen. I love how we delve deeper into RD's backstory and meet her family. Her parents, though annoying at a few parts, were interesting and fun. RD's dilemma is indeed understandable. The moral itself, was awesome. RD didn't try to do anything stupid or pathetic (looking at you, Newbie Dash). She was just being herself. Scootaloo's inclusion in the episode, much like Doc's comment, was a great idea. That ending scene with her getting support from RD and her family was a bit heartwarming and made for a fitting end. Since we still don't know that much about Scootaloo's family, fans can still speculate that she might be an orphan, and this might symbolize her possibly getting adopted. That's just a thought, though.
Overall, another awesome episode to an ongoing awesome season.
it was an awesome episode. i am agreeing with all points.
BUT the is one thing that went completly wrong in this episode. during dashs flashback we see that she is flying and competing with all the wonderbolts. she even makes it to the top. lightning dust was almost always on top. spitfire not once. but spitfire becomes the captain of the wonderbolts and lightning dust started with dash? there are some heavy inconsistancies going on. dash wanted to be a wonderbolt forever and trained for it. and every other pegasi made it before her and even became captain and whatnot?? sorry but the writers failed really hard with that flashback. this cant be taken as canon
Holy shit, this episode had me grinning throughout.
Also, RD's parents should get a trophy for most effective "stab our hearts then twist the knife" moment with that scene in the locker room. "You are the best at making your parents feel worthless"!? Ouch.
I loved this Episode, but the constant cheering from Rainbow's parents was... more than a tad bit cringy, BUT it does work, simply because you understand just how uncomfortable Rainbow Dash must feel
JPonyLoco reminds me of every sport I took part in as a kid.. so much cheering..
I never got cheered on :( but I'd probably complain if I had :) THERE'S NO PLEASING ME Lol
I love the episode but yeah the ending there was definitely wrong. I mean we saw how toxic way too much supportive parents could be in Top Bolt with Vapor Trail's background. I didn't like the fact that the episode made Rainbow Dash in the wrong, she was in the right. Maybe not the way that she handled it, but at that time she was so annoyed/upset by her parents that she just got fed up with everything, and when you're annoyed/upset you tend to say things that you don't really mean. She should have calmly explained to them that while she appreciated their support there was such a thing as too much support. While I love the episode I hate that the episode made it look like Rainbow was in the wrong, because she wasn't.
easily top 10 episodes in the entire series. probably the best RD episode too. they handled this extremely well. and this now hypes me up for S7E13 where we finally learn what happened to the Apple Parents. only 3 weeks left!
I have the same problem with this as I did with the Babs Seed episode. The message is twisted by the fact that the character lashing out was justified. Rainbow Dash's parents display clearly toxic behavior, and Dash was well within her rights to stand up for herself. Yet the episode makes it seem like she was 100% in the wrong, and what's more, her parents never apologize for *their* behavior even though Dash has to apologize for hers. Not to mention the message itself just makes my blood boil. "Ignore your parents toxic behavior no matter how much they hurt you because at least the mean well." Been told that my whole life and....yeah no
Makes me wonder... would an episode where RD's parents adopt Scootaloo really be off the cards after this one? :P
Yassss
I was literally just thinking that :)
That would be adorable. I love how they treated Scootaloo like she was a part of the family right away. I couldn't help but find it really endearing that they were just that nice and that they went to cheer her on at the end.
While I like the idea of the moral of appreciating your parents' support, Bow and Windy weren't just supportive, they were intrusive. Their "support" ruined the experience for other spectators and those trying to get an autograph, not to mention the obvious fact that they weren't paying any attention to Rainbow Dash's feelings.
Teaching kids (and parents I guess) that parents' intrusive behavior and complete ignorance of their kids' feelings is acceptable just because "you have to be grateful that they are at least supportive" is honestly a horrible, if not toxic, moral in my opinion.
This episode wasted a perfect opportunity to teach about trying to understand others and reach a compromise as a family.
I love the episode but yeah the ending there was definitely wrong. I mean we saw how toxic way too much supportive parents could be in Top Bolt with Vapor Trail's background. I didn't like the fact that the episode made Rainbow Dash in the wrong, she was in the right. Maybe not the way that she handled it, but at that time she was so annoyed/upset by her parents that she just got fed up with everything, and when you're annoyed/upset you tend to say things that you don't really mean. She should have calmly explained to them that while she appreciated their support there was such a thing as too much support. While I love the episode I hate that the episode made it look like Rainbow was in the wrong, because she wasn't.
Thank you! Exactly! This is why I don't like the episode. It ruined her parents for me. >_
Exactly the same for me! The idea of being able to tell some one how you feel about something only for people to be angry and basically blame you for having feelings is just a horrible feeling that I'm too familiar with to be able to enjoy this episode. I started thinking it's MY fault for not enjoying the harassment. Like you said, it's one of the most horrific ideas to me and I honestly started welling up in tears at the idea that the same thing is happening to her. You should never be afraid to tell people that they're pushing your boundaries... Rainbowdash did do it in a rude way but be angry about the presentation, not the message! I'm so glad some one managed to put it into better words than I ever could.
Thank you! I thought I was the only one who thought that! The part where Rainbow Dash finally barks at them, I thought this is where the parents would learn their lesson, but as well as Rainbow Dash, but instead it's made out to be Rainbow Dash who was in the wrong. It really bothered me how Scootaloo treated her right after.
Yea... That sort of overwhelming praise for hanging up a towel is appropriate for a toddler, not a grown pony like RD... It's also understandable that Scoots needs it. She's still young after all...
I love the part where Scootalo has a little dopey grin on her face. 😁
After watching this episode twice now, I think this Scootaloo/Rainbow Dash-centric episode is ANOTHER fantastic edition, throughout both viewings, memories of Flight to the Finish AND Sleepless in Ponyville kept popping into my head, Parental Glidance is by far Season 7's BEST EPISODE so far, it's almost flawless, it teaches two very relatable lessons from two different perspectives; Scootaloo's not given the support she NEEDED, and Rainbow getting TOO MUCH support, I relate more to Scootaloo, but I understand where Dash was coming from
Firstly, who was that purple stallion we saw from 3 all the way through S6? Second, so much for my theory on Gen3 Rainbow being our Dash's mom (maybe). 3rd WHO WAS THAT PURPLE STALLION!? It was clearly suppose to be Dash's father so this little recton urks me in an confusing way...so was her dad rectoned to be an brother? Uncle? Why update his body shape when we saw him in present last season????
Anyways I really only have 1 problem with this Ep. Dash's parents didn't learn an thing. I agree with Dashie, "how can you compare whose better at hanging an towel?" Her parents were beginning to go an little bit too far and Dash was right to her outburst, but also went too far with it.
But her parents never really learnt "why" their daughter got so fed up, nope, instead Dash BECAME ONE OF THEM an little more time given to her parents would had been nice, but overall still an good Ep. Hope to see her parents again! Also as far as I know Scootaloo is the only one left (besides Silver Spoon) who we have yet to see/hear about family in over 7 years so far. Which it took us that long to see Perfect Pear so...maybe soon?
P.S I had an theory where Scootaloo is an long lost Apple, her fur is very close to being AJ's I think.
I had really thought that, in the end Rainbow Dash would say to her parents something along the lines of 'Giving support in moderation and at appropriate times.' That's my personal opinion because I have known a few people that have received non-stop praise from their parents and then once they grew up into trying to be an independent adult, they just can't handle any rejection/negativity from others. Don't get me wrong though, I'm not saying that there shouldn't be any praise at all in life even if you don't win first prize... but this just has been my experience.
But I totally also resonate with Scootaloo as well. I remember growing up, I only gotten praise if I was first in something (but that didn't happen often! xD) so getting such little praise throughout my childhood I have like 1% confidence in my adult life today. Teacher's too also thought that putting me down for not having confidence was going to build up my confidence in life, but it didn't!
I have a question... in previous episodes we have seen a Rainbow maned pone (Rainbow Blaze named by community) seen in the harthwarming ep and in rainbows flashback a few seasons ago. we assumed him to be rainbows father but has been thrown out the window, could he have been an older brother? would not surprise me, each of the other main 6 has a brother or sister of some sort, (Twilight and Shining, Rarity and Sweetie belle, Applejack, big mac and apple bloom, pinkie pie with her 3 sisters, and recently fluttershys brother) so why would Rainbow be the only one not to have a sibling? seems kinda odd
Love it love it love it, but I just wish Rainbow would have told her parentes that scotaloo is her not related sister
Literally the as the entire episode was playing, I was curled up in a ball squealing because of how adorable this was. My heart dropped when I saw dash's parents and scoots in tears after she snapped. My god it was perfect
now everyone wants applejacks parents next. I'm sure.
And Scootaloo's
Applejack's parents are comfirmed dead by the creators.But who know maybe they will deviate and make them alive.
1) Have they been confirmed dead outside of the show? Because in the show, they only said they're not here, not that they're dead. 2) SPOILER ALERT, see below.
Spoiler: S07E13 will be about Applejack's parents and how they fell in love.
1)Yes the creators sayd so 2) The story could be told trough a flashback or maybe the writers could improvise and be like "fuck it they're alive"
1) Do you know where and when? 2) I guess it'll be a flashback and I doubt that they'll take your second guess. But hell, that one would be awesome. Maybe they just went missing or something.
I hate the Moral of this Episode. I just wished the parents would have learnd somthing too.
I agree with you! This episode is really fantastic! I love Rainbow's parents (Bow Hothoof and Windy Whistles)! They are my favourite parents of MLP!
What I really would have liked about this episode if they had Bow & Windy adopt Scootaloo as their second daughter. It would have been wonderful to have Scootaloo & Rainbow Dash as *offical* sisters. That would have been just a awesome idea since Scootaloo was kinda done dirty in the last two seasons (S8 (Barring The Washouts) & S9) of the show, what with not flying and all. To me, Bow and Windy are WAY better parents for Scootaloo than... *Cough-Cough* ...Snap Shutter and Mane Allgood... But hey, that's just *my* opinion, so, I won't judge anyone else's.
#Scootalove
#TheDashFamily
#BestSisters
#BowHothoof
#WindyWhistles
#RainbowDash
#Scootaloo
#ParentalGlideance
Not only did Derpy, Lightning Dust, Spitfire and Rainbow Dash already meet as fillies, but also can we see Derpy getting more and more cross-eyed.
This might be the best episode not only of the season so far, but possibly the entire series.
Josh Hamilton also wrote for Avatar, Korra, and the new Voltron, and it shows in the level of heart present.
justin riley Yep That's why it's so good. ;D
justin riley I like it
justin riley that's what I said. I didn't even know it was episode 150. And this was his DEBUT!? Dudes got some seriously good skills or some insane luck, and seeing how he wrote for Avatar it was obviously the former.
***** Not absolute best, but one of the best.
justin riley WHAT?!?!
That's awesome! :D
The only problem I had with this episode is how they retconned Rainbow Dash's dad's design since he appeared in a few episodes in previous seasons. They could've just kept the old design and gave him the same clothes they used for her retconned dad.
After watching this episode I saw my mom and gave her a hug and told her how much I appreciate her... This may be a show for children, but I'll tell you what, this one really caused me to appreciate the little things in life.
I've always bought into the theory that Scootaloo was an orphan, but after this episode-- specifically after her saying that no one ever supported her rather than just that she didn't have anyone-- I have a somewhat different impression. (This is gonna play out like a fanfic premise I'm sure but sssh.)
So now, an episode I would love to see would be one where we meet Scootaloo's parent or parents (for simplicity's sake in this example, I'll say a single parent), and find out that they're incredibly neglectful. I know this is dark but stay with me for a second. We've seen very toxic parenting before with Diamond Tiara, and heck, an opportunity for Scootaloo and DT to bond post-DT-redemption might be nice as well. But!
What I'd like to see is Scootaloo having always been afraid to say anything, and when it finally comes to light, Dash's family taking her in or trying to. In keeping with the idealistic nature of MLP, this sparks her blood parent to realize and finally care what they've lost, and they try to convince her to stay or something of that nature in a selfish "she's mine and you can't take her" way, but by the end of the episode Scootaloo standing up for herself and others coming to her aid and the parent _actually_ seeing the error of their ways.
The ideal ending for me would be Scootaloo ends up moving in with Rainbow or her parents and being with a (found) family who loves her, while her blood parent sincerely apologizes and things between them being in sort of a state of "we can work on making amends, slowly, from a distance, if you're willing to keep at it and respect my boundaries". Such that her parent is painted as _redeemable,_ but not yet _redeemed;_ someone who messed up badly enough that just being apologetic doesn't come close to making things okay, but not a total monster or caricature.
;w; It would be a way to tell a delicate story about getting out of a bad situation and show that the family you choose and who chooses you is more valuable than the one you're born into, while keeping the sense of MLP idealism that doing a bad thing doesn't mean you'll always be a bad person and promoting the idea that everyone deserves a second chance, while at the same time subverting their usual portrayal of that idea with the addendum that some second chances might take a lot longer the achieve than others and that's okay, too. You don't have to forgive someone right away just because they're sorry, and loving someone doesn't mean you can't distance yourself from them if it's healthier for you.
.... I have put way too much thought into this and I love Scootaloo a lot.
Growing up, I actually got to experience both too much praise and no praise at all from both my parents. Horribly, I happened to get the too much praise treatment when I didn't want it and I got the no praise at all when I did. I came from a rather athletic or "sports fever" family so my parents really wanted me to get into sports even though I absolute hated sports and totally sucked at it. And any sport I did show any real interest in I was denied either because it was out of their budget or they didn't believe I'd actually continue liking it. So agreeing on something to pursue with pride wasn't easy. My parents always praised me when I did well in something I hated such as sports but I was kinda ignored when I did my best but ultimately failed at when doing something I loved. Nowadays, I finally get praise from my parents when I do something I love and they no longer pressure me to do something they think would be good for me even though I have absolutely no interest in it at all . . . most of the time, anyway. I guess the best example I have of something like this that has recently happened to me was when I graduated from my college program. My parents were so proud of me but I didn't feel like I was ready to leave yet. I'm actually still not ready to leave even though I've already graduated. I really like school and want to continue my studies even though most people would be thrilled that that part of their life is over. Luckily, my parents understood this and decided to pick up a sheet that had a list of classes I could take during the fall. I don't know if I'll do well in my new classes, but I'm really looking forward to them. I just hope my parents give me the appropriate amount of support for it.