So I just saw Portrait of a Princess, and it was really good. It might even be the best thing since The Movie.
This is our first MYM episode that has a central theme tying everything together. And that theme is obligation. Pipp’s relationship with social media blurs the line between obligation and compulsion. And despite wanting to bail on portrait day, Zipp still feels like she’s failed in her obligation to be a good big sister. Zipp and Pipp have a great dynamic, and it’s nice that we finally get a longer story to explore it.
Pipp’s overarching journey seems to be about being demystified in the eyes of her fans. In ANG, she’s this godlike icon that gets exposed. In ClipTrot, she encourages her fans to do their own thing instead of imitating her. Now in this episode, she needs to be rescued by her fans.
Queen Haven continues to be a great character with hidden depth. She supports and respects Zipp’s choice to become a detective. Despite being The Queen, she still personally raised her daughters. She’s so relieved that they’re safe that she doesn’t bother getting the seaweed off before doing the portrait.
We haven’t seen Sunny’s natural curiosity on display since The Movie, so it’s nice to see it here. I think “curiosity” is the thing Zipp and Sunny share.
Then there’s Misty and Opaline. I like that their dynamic isn’t just “smart minion dumb leader” or “competent leader bumbling minion”. Opaline occasionally listens to Misty’s suggestions.
Overall, I think this one marks a turning point for the series.