I gave MLP a chance. I watched it. It was (literally) a show for little girls. As a show for little girls, it's good, with good role models and good stories. For little girls. I'm a 21 year old man and there is nothing in this show for me.
I don't get it. I just don't get it.
It is, beyond a doubt, written for children. The plot doesn't have twists that really surprise me, or character interaction that expands my ability to understand the world. When I watch the show, I'm appreciating it for the sake of the work itself; what it's trying to do, how it does it, and for the good-natured whimsy of it. I like it for what it represents, as a piece of kid-oriented media, as opposed to the sea of slop generally aimed at kids.
It's intelligent for its target audience, progressive, well-written, and artistically appealing. For a show created to sell colorful ponies to young girls, I find the direction and attitude behind it surprisingly cool. They rebooted it well.
Finalizing plans to attend the local Renaissance Festival this weekend with some friends. It will be ridiculously fun!
Now, to decide whether or not to go in costume. I'll be the only one in my group doing it if I go... but I bet I could track down a brown coarse-spun monk's robe and a rope belt. If I have no luck, I do have a green crushed velvet cloak... just need a nice white linen tunic to go with it, or something.
Don't forget the codpiece.
Alack, I have not a codpiece to wear. Whate'er shall I do; no man shall treat me with my deserved import, lest I brandish a proper codpiece! D: