My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic #23 Review

The sidekicks star in this one-shot! Does the pet-themed issue deliver a solid story? Let’s find out!

Here’s the official description from IDW:

A special one-shot issue featuring the ponies’ pets! When some new trouble comes into Ponyville, all of our normal heroes are incapacitated. Luckily help is on the way in the form of Angel, Owlicious, Gummy, Tank, Winona and Opal! Will they be able to use teamwork to save the day?

I wasn’t too excited for this issue admittedly. The last time the pets starred was in the episode ‘Just For Sidekicks.’ They aren’t bad, but aren’t that engaging on their own. This issue however is definitely a lot more exciting than the aforementioned episode. Since there’s no Spike, (and for some reason unless I missed something he’s completely absent from the story which is strange given the circumstances) most of the issue is like a silent movie. This one-shot is definitely a fun little read.

I always admire when a writer/director can create a silent story and make it engaging. The thing fans will personally like is how well Jeremy Whitley utilizes each pet’s personality. Truly, when one thinks about it, Angel would make for a pretty good leader to get things done. The story works very nicely; the inclusion of an impressive-looking antagonist who is controlling the ponies is a great concept. Instead of staying on that route however, the story goes another and attempts to make the situation sympathetic. There’s nothing wrong with this, it just happens way too fast. After being mind-controlled Twilight right away agrees to help. The final part was just too rushed.

Amy Mebberson’s art is adorable! From the bright first panel you know you’re in for a treat. She also draws some creepy-looking mind-controlled ponies. It’s a shame she doesn’t do interiors more often. The main cover by her is a very good piece perfectly describing the story within. (Though Opal isn’t quite as worried as depicted on the cover.) Cover B by Sara Richard is easily the most stand-out piece. Not only does it look awesome, the poses and everything is just striking. The RI by Katie Longua is more of a simple piece, though easily the less standout of them all. (Winona fans will love it however cause she takes center stage.)

Overall, this was was a surprisingly fun issue. The pets, especially Angel, are a lot to watch as they execute the bunny’s plan to rescue their owners. Sadly, while the antagonist was a pretty cool creation, the ending is just rushed. The direction it went in wasn’t necessarily bad, it’s just that it happens way too fast. Still, if you like the pets this is your comic!