Coach
Steven
When people talk about what makes strong characters, they seem to factor in those who are the toughest or most physically fit. However, this cartoon reminds us that even those who aren’t the best at fighting or are even weak can find different ways of being strong, as there is no set way to do such. It starts with Steven witnessing another Gem fusion when Garnet and Amethyst form Sugilite, a large muscular Gem who always wants to punch stuff and destroy things with her wrecking ball. She demonstrates her power by taking out a Gem communication hub rather recklessly, which also results in the destruction of the warp pad the Gems used to get there from the temple. While Pearl disapproves of Sugilite’s recklessness, Steven is easily impressed and sets out to make himself and some of his friends strong like her. The interesting thing about the work-out is that Steven finds it easier to motivate other people into working out than to actually work out himself, which only really hurts him. It greatly shows that not everyone is fit for building strength by working out, and that true strength can come from anything you do, and this idea is further built upon when Sugilite returns going on an out-of-control-rampage, and Pearl’s left to fight her alone. It’s Steven’s motivations that get Pearl to keep on fighting when she feels overpowered, and come up with a clever strategy to cause Sugilite to unfuse back into Garnet and Amethyst. The final fight is truly a great moment for both Steven and Pearl both of whom show off their strength by being true to themselves without needing to throw any punches in turn proving that anyone can be strong in their own way. I also can’t talk about this cartoon without mentioning it has one of the best songs in the show, “Strong in the Real Way” performed shortly before Sugilite’s return. With a nice, soothing melody and vocal talent from those who sing it, it effectively weaves in Pearl’s concern of Steven wanting to emulate Sugilite’s power and Steven showing off what is unknowingly his true talent of motivation together seamlessly. It comes off as an inspiring music piece sure to let anyone know that they can be strong just by being true to themselves, even if they’re not the toughest. I could totally picture myself working out to the song and never feel bad if I’m not the best athlete because it reminds me that true strength lies in just about anything, making it even better that it leads to Steven and Pearl’s shining moments during the final fight. With an inspiring message, a cool new fusion, great character moments, and an awesome song, this insightful cartoon is easily one of the absolute best of the season. 10/10
The Ranking
- Coach Steven
- So Many Birthdays
- Steven the Sword Fighter
- Lion 2: The Movie
- Bubble Buddies
- Laser Light Cannon
- Giant Woman
- Lars and the Cool Kids
- Steven’s Lion
- Gem Glow
- Rose’s Room
- Cheeseburger Backpack
- Serious Steven
- Beach Party
- Cat Fingers
- Tiger Millionaire
- Together Breakfast
- Frybo
- Onion Trade
- Arcade Mania
Be sure to stay tuned for the review of the next episode, "Joking Victim," featuring the problematic relationship of Lars and Sadie.
If you would like to check out other reviews on this blog, click here for the guide to all the reviews posted so far.
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