Let's Review: G5 #12

 

"Huh. Look at that. The sheriff just became a detective." 

Prophetic words from Zipp. Now let's see how Hitch handles such a responsibility. 

Check out the review after the break, where you might also uncover some spoilers!

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Having sat last month out, Hitch is now center-stage as a podcaster exploring the most mysterious cold case in Maritime Bay. He claims it's the oldest mystery in Equestria, but we all know better. The oldest mystery is what ultimately happened to Twilight & co, but such is not the focus this time around.

Love all the details in this panel alone.

Speaking of focus, let's talk about Amy Mebberson's artwork. Her work throughout this series has been stellar, making this feel like her personal comic line. If you enjoyed the art style of the "Return to Canterlot" arc, you'll enjoy much the same here. Without a larger conflict to distract, we get an issue that features a greater amount of character interaction and expression. You have ponies with hidden motives and memories, plus Zipp adding some levity as Hitch's producer. Every panel enjoys background elements, some of which hint at the truth to this mystery. I found that re-reading the issue with an eye for clues yielded multiple rewards.

The true mystery?
Which one is the most adorable? 

 

The mystery in question? The disappearance of one Pansy Silverbell; baker extraordinare and likely winner of a past baking contest if not for her sudden disappearance. Hitch opens his podcast to solve this mystery using information provided by listeners. This partially mirrors real life, where several such podcasts have helped solve cold cases thanks to new information. However, we're in a morally gray area as Hitch is not just a podcaster. As a sheriff, he is acting in an official capacity on a case. I find it highly unethical to inform the audience of details in an investigation, especially as the evidence tends to cast suspicions on two locals: Jazz Hooves and Dahlia.

Dang! Be glad that was just a hoof! 

 

Jazz is correct when she warns Hitch that even interviewing her can cause ponies to gossip. The speculation included with this investigation could do lasting harm to the ponies and their relationships.

'kay, thanks, bye! 

 

Lest you think I'm dumping on Hitch, let's go over his characterization. When A New Generation first hit the scene, Hitch was a very competent–even authoritative–figure. Ponies listened to him and while he might have a few moments of confusion, he really was competent at his job. He served as the antagonistic force pursuing Sunny and Izzy up until Sprout took over that role. So his dedication to discovering the truth and his interrogation style in this comic match the movie well.

A little too passionate there, Hitch. 

 

Once the first Make Your Mark special aired, Hitch suffered a downgrade in his confidence and professionalism. He was less decisive, easily distracted, and the addition of Sparky dailed up his emotional state over his focus. It strikes me that the show wants to dial back the threat he represented in the movie, but without offering another strength to fill that void I fear it does his character a disservice. By contrast, this issue does allow him comedic moments and expressions while also showing him capable of empathy and respecting ponies wishes without giving up on the truth. It is also 100% Sparky-free, which I wish weren't an element I could praise but the little dragon has yet to win me over.

Anyone ever had chili this hot? 

 

The best element of characterization is between Hitch and Zipp, who are far closer and friendlier than their initial encounter. While it's strange to see Zipp leading the charge on social media instead of Zipp, her enthusiasm for a detective-themed podcast is clear. Honestly, I hope that Pipp might realize this is a good way to connect with her sister of a mutual set of interests. But the funest part is Hitch and Zipp's reaction to delicious soup and the food coma that threatens to overtake both.

Fight the urge, Zipp! Stay awake! 

 

Given that this is a mystery, I think it a disservice to talk about each plot point and reveal the journey. This is a fun story well worth a read with as little foreknowledge as possible. True to the My Little Pony brand, it's not as menacing as the initial facts suggest, but the strenth lies with the character. Without the need to pay a vocal cast, we can enjoy a greater array of characters and I consider that one of the comic line's greatest strengths.

Jazz has a very different presentation this time around.
Makes me appreciate her as a more rounded character. 

 

This comic shows Hitch's best strengths. Combining both professionalism, a desire for the truth, and empathy in one package. I highly recommend this story and hope that they'll keep this podcast idea going over a few issues. Until then, let us know your thoughts in the comments!

You both did well.
Just watch out for that ethical gray area! 

 

I'm Silver Quill. Thanks for reading!

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