After two disappointments in a row, part of me on first watch was worried as to whether "The Hearth's Warming Club" was going to be another disappointment and be indicative that Season 8 and 'My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic' had lost it. Part of me also felt that this has to be better, as the Student Six were already well written characters and the premise was much more appealing. From what was said by other fans, it also sounded like there were no characters out of character (Discord in "A Matter of Principals").
On first watch, it was to my relief that "The Hearth's Warming Club" was much better than the previous two episodes and saw the season, which to me was uneven, and show back on track. On recent re-watch, it was even more to my relief that "The Hearth's Warming Club" was even better than on first watch. To me it is one of Season 8's best and even better than the last great episode "Molt Down". It is not the waste of big potential that "The Mean 6" was and doesn't have any insufferably written character that dominates too much like "A Matter of Principals" with Discord.
My only issue with "The Hearth's Warming Club" is Sandbar, here he is very annoying and that joke of his accusing Ocellus fell as flat as an undercooked pancake and was not even in good taste.
The rest of the Student Six characters were great, loved that their characters in development and personality were expanded upon in one of their most fascinating appearances on the show since they were introduced where they feel like individuals. Also interesting was the exploration of their different cultures and their ideas of what their holidays represent and such. My favourite of the story was that of Silverstream, but Yona overall is my favourite of the six. Really appreciated seeing Gallus more fleshed out and standing out for the first time.
Really liked their stories, which were entertaining, endearingly silly and honest. The mystery element intrigues and while one does not condone their actions one cannot hate the perpetrator once the motive, a sad and oddly relatable one, is revealed. Especially when they are honest about it, have genuine guilt and are genuinely remorseful, did appreciate how tactful the truth was revealed. The ending is touching and does not feel pat. The writing is charming and sincere with very winning and rarely annoying humour, apart from that one moment from Sandbar.
Furthermore, the animation is vibrant and beautifully detailed, the music always fits ideally tonally and in placement, the moral is not preachy and the voice acting is extremely good all round.
In conclusion, great. 9/10.
