Rainbow Dash isn't stubborn, she's brash and competitive there's a difference. At some points, yes, she can be stubborn. But it's really just her cocky tomboy attitude and her not wanting to admit somepony else is better then her. S1 Ep.4 is a good example of A.J. stubbornness and why I don't like her.
Applejack sitting by some statue lying was boring and I wouldn't really say that's doing much. Pinkie Pie kinda didn't do anything either. The others did do a few things I guess but I still found it boring.
Maybe Celestia could have payed a little more attention but she was busy keeping watch during the day.
I admit Chrysalis is a bad villain and I can understand why you would find that a problem.
Agreed, Rarity whining is hilarious.