Vigor Mortis is so bad it made me find Jesus

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to the themes and discussions presented in the video "Vigor Mortis is so bad it made me find Jesus" by James Tullos. It explores the critique of a narrative, character analysis, and various thematic elements, making it relevant for those interested in storytelling, character development, and narrative structure in media.

Step 1: Analyze the Summary

• Understand the Main Points: Watch the summary at 9:26 to grasp the overall critique of the content.
• Identify Key Issues: Note the significant flaws highlighted in the narrative, particularly around character development and plot consistency.

Step 2: Examine Character Development

• Focus on Vita: At 55:54, Tullos discusses Vita as the "Ultimate Mary Sue."
  • Definition: A Mary Sue is an idealized character that often lacks realistic flaws.
  • Practical Tip: Consider how character flaws contribute to relatability and depth.
• Look into Lark's Tragedy: Review the discussion at 1:16:56 for insights into Lark's character.
  • Key Insight: Analyze how Lark's backstory shapes her motivations and the narrative's emotional impact.

Step 3: Explore Villain Portrayals

• Identify Villain Characteristics: At 1:23:06, Tullos discusses the portrayal of villains.
  • Practical Advice: Understand how compelling villains can enhance a story's tension and engage the audience.
• Contrast with Heroes: Compare villains' motivations with those of the protagonists to uncover deeper narrative conflicts.

Step 4: Consider Representation in Media

• Discuss LGBT Themes: At 1:29:27, Tullos addresses the representation of LGBT characters in the narrative.
  • Key Point: Reflect on how representation can impact audience perception and inclusivity in storytelling.
• Practical Application: Think about how to incorporate diverse characters in your own writing to enhance authenticity.

Step 5: Evaluate Plot Structure

• Critique the Structure: At 1:36:34, Tullos questions the plot structure.
  • Understanding Structure: Familiarize yourself with common plot structures (e.g., three-act structure, hero's journey).
• Practical Advice: When crafting your story, outline the plot to ensure coherence and logical progression.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we've explored key themes from James Tullos' video, including character analysis, villain development, representation, and plot structure. By understanding these elements, you can enhance your storytelling skills and create more engaging narratives. Consider reviewing your own work against these points to identify areas for improvement and growth.