"Sleepless in Ponyville" had one of the most intriguing concepts of the third season. A nostalgic setting, a very true to life and identifiable situation, some very striking imagery when advertised, that it sounded very imaginative, the opportunity of seeing Princess Luna back. As well as looking forward to seeing some development to Scootaloo, who was never a problem for me but the other Cutie Mark Crusader characters had had more development in previous episodes (especially Applebloom).
Found myself not disappointed at all. "Sleepless in Ponyville" handles its concept in a multi-dimensional way, not being overly cute or overly dark. It is the prime example of Season 3 perhaps to be a masterpiece of character writing and character interaction, loved what was done with Scootaloo and the portrayal of what she goes through and makes great use of its setting. One of Season 3's best quite easily, in its top three even and even an extremely strong contender for its best.
Of all the episodes of Season 3, along with "Too Many Pinkie Pies" and "Magical Mystery Cure", "Sleepless in Ponyville" is one of the best looking and most visually imaginative. Some truly atmospheric nightmarish imagery not seen before to this extent at this point of the show. The music fits beautifully and sounds great in its own right. The dialogue is a constant mix of very funny and very touching, with some suitably unsettling moments too. It flows seamlessly and every line of dialogue feels necessary.
The story has genuine creepiness when needed, in what is probably the creepiest Season 3 episode, while also being very charming, a lot of fun and with some very heartfelt moments (such as the whole chemistry between Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash). This story is furthermore carried significantly by quite impeccable and some of the best character writing of the season and of the early seasons. It was great to see Princess Luna back, and in a way that moved her forward instead of just being a just there plot device.
Also to finally see Scootaloo properly developed in one of the best episodes to center around an individual Cutie Mark Crusader. Really related to her and her facing her fears, which so many will identify with and was written sensitively and engagingly. The character interaction is without complaint all round, especially the touching and nuanced one between Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo. Did find the former a little too agressive towards the latter on first watch, but it doesn't bother me now.
Heartwarming too is the one between Rarity, loved her this season, and Sweetie Belle. Applejack is amusing and in character, one of my favourite early seasons appearances of hers. The voice acting is great, especially Ashleigh Ball as Rainbow Dash.
To conclude, brilliant episode and a season high point. 10/10
Found myself not disappointed at all. "Sleepless in Ponyville" handles its concept in a multi-dimensional way, not being overly cute or overly dark. It is the prime example of Season 3 perhaps to be a masterpiece of character writing and character interaction, loved what was done with Scootaloo and the portrayal of what she goes through and makes great use of its setting. One of Season 3's best quite easily, in its top three even and even an extremely strong contender for its best.
Of all the episodes of Season 3, along with "Too Many Pinkie Pies" and "Magical Mystery Cure", "Sleepless in Ponyville" is one of the best looking and most visually imaginative. Some truly atmospheric nightmarish imagery not seen before to this extent at this point of the show. The music fits beautifully and sounds great in its own right. The dialogue is a constant mix of very funny and very touching, with some suitably unsettling moments too. It flows seamlessly and every line of dialogue feels necessary.
The story has genuine creepiness when needed, in what is probably the creepiest Season 3 episode, while also being very charming, a lot of fun and with some very heartfelt moments (such as the whole chemistry between Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash). This story is furthermore carried significantly by quite impeccable and some of the best character writing of the season and of the early seasons. It was great to see Princess Luna back, and in a way that moved her forward instead of just being a just there plot device.
Also to finally see Scootaloo properly developed in one of the best episodes to center around an individual Cutie Mark Crusader. Really related to her and her facing her fears, which so many will identify with and was written sensitively and engagingly. The character interaction is without complaint all round, especially the touching and nuanced one between Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo. Did find the former a little too agressive towards the latter on first watch, but it doesn't bother me now.
Heartwarming too is the one between Rarity, loved her this season, and Sweetie Belle. Applejack is amusing and in character, one of my favourite early seasons appearances of hers. The voice acting is great, especially Ashleigh Ball as Rainbow Dash.
To conclude, brilliant episode and a season high point. 10/10
