One would be hard-pressed to find a cultural sensation as unique and unexpected as ‘Bronies’ (male My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic fans). Why are these grown men (and women) attracted to a cartoon intended for little girls? And why are they willing to brave society’s ridicule for their love of the show?

Bronies: The Extremely Unexpected Adult Fans of My Little Pony is a feature-length documentary that explores this strange cultural phenomenon, chronicling Bronies from around the world, each with their unique story, as they make their way to My Little Pony conventions in Germany, England, and to, the biggest convention of all, “BronyCon” in the USA. On the way, we discover that the essential story elements of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic – Honesty, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Loyalty, and Magic – have a universality that extends beyond age and gender, and that Bronies are pushing the boundaries of what society deems appropriate in their quest for a kinder, gentler future.

With a super special Q&A with Paul Rudish, who was development artist on the first season of the My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic series.

This program screened as part of KLIK! Amsterdam Animation Festival 2013

Showing in this program

Bronies: The Extremely Unexpected Adult Fans of My Little Pony

• Laurent Malaquais
• United States, 2013
• 90 min.