Jessica Nile Brunelle
2 min readJan 21, 2024

🔥 What Makes a Character as Explosively Dynamic as the Hulk and How Can You Apply This to Crafting a Character Like Jessica Jones? 🔥

The Hulk epitomizes a ‘volcanic’ character with his explosive mix of raw emotion and sheer power, underpinned by a deeply human struggle.

Now, let’s explore how these principles apply to another Marvel favorite, Jessica Jones, and how you can use them in your screenwriting:

  1. Complex Backstory: Jessica’s troubled past fuels her present, much like the Hulk’s. Layer your character’s background with complexities that impact their current narrative.
  2. Emotional Depth: Jessica, like the Hulk, displays profound emotional depth, often leading to unpredictable behaviors. Infuse your characters with deep, often conflicting emotions.
  3. Physical and Mental Strength: Just as the Hulk’s physical strength defines him, Jessica’s superhuman abilities are integral to her character. Give your characters distinct strengths that shape their identity.
  4. Inner Conflict and Turmoil: Both characters constantly wrestle with internal conflicts. Create a rich inner life that frequently clashes with external circumstances.
  5. Moral Ambiguity: Jessica operates in a morally grey area, similar to the Hulk. Craft characters whose decisions and morals aren’t always clear-cut.
  6. Relatable Flaws: Jessica’s flaws make her human and relatable. Let your characters have flaws that are real and that impact their journey.
  7. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Both characters show incredible resilience. Develop a sense of indomitable spirit in your characters, no matter what they face.
  8. Intense Relationships: Jessica’s relationships are complicated and intense. Create dynamic and complex relationships for your characters.
  9. A Strong Personal Code: Despite her flaws, Jessica follows a personal code, akin to the Hulk’s struggle for control. Establish a unique set of principles or a code for your character.
  10. Transformation Over Time: Jessica, like the Hulk, undergoes significant personal transformation. Ensure your characters evolve in response to their experiences.

Crafting a character as rich and volcanic as Jessica Jones requires delving deep into emotional complexity and moral ambiguity, much like the Hulk. Use these insights to bring depth, intensity, and dynamism to your characters!

Jessica Nile Brunelle

Screenwriting visceral character-driven dramas/dramedies about tragic and emotionally damaged characters who find peace and hope.