So About Self Inserts

Summary

The video script critiques the use of self-inserts in media, focusing on the animated series *Velma*. The speaker argues that *Velma* misuses the self-insert trope by turning the main character into a representation of Mindy Kaling, which deviates from the original *Scooby-Doo* series. This results in a lack of character chemistry and a sense of wish fulfillment that alienates the audience. The video contrasts this with successful self-inserts, like in *Gravity Falls*, where the self-insertion enhances the story. The speaker concludes that self-inserts can work if done thoughtfully and in original works, but should avoid alienating established fanbases.

Takeaways

• 😀 Self-inserts are literary devices where authors write themselves into a story through a character, often leading to wish fulfillment.
• 😀 The self-insert trope in *Velma* has been criticized for being a vehicle for Mindy Kaling's personal wishes, especially with the character of Velma.
• 😀 Mindy Kaling openly admitted to identifying with Velma so much that she changed the character’s race to reflect her own Indian background.
• 😀 The *Velma* show significantly departs from the original character, with Velma becoming rude, abrasive, and unrecognizable from her previous incarnation.
• 😀 The writing in *Velma* often feels like self-indulgence from the creators rather than a genuine homage to the original Scooby-Doo franchise.
• 😀 The lack of chemistry between Velma and the other characters in the show undermines the audience's investment in the story and its relationships.
• 😀 Despite the backlash, the writers of *Velma* dismissed the criticism as coming from a small minority of viewers, leading to its widespread failure.
• 😀 *I Am Not Starfire* is compared to *Velma* as another example of a self-insert, where the creator’s personal identity is pushed into an existing character, creating discomfort for fans.
• 😀 Self-inserts can work when done well, particularly when they are used in original works like *Gravity Falls*, which was inspired by creator Alex Hirsch's own life experiences.
• 😀 The key to effective self-inserts is to serve the story rather than fulfill the creator’s desires, making sure it resonates with a broad audience and respects the original material.

Q & A

What is a self-insert in literature and media?

A self-insert is a literary device where the author writes themselves into a story, either through a character who represents them or by adopting their perspective. Unlike the Everyman archetype, which is designed to appeal to a wide audience, a self-insert is specific to one individual and is often used for wish fulfillment.

Why is the concept of a self-insert often criticized?

Self-inserts are often criticized for being used as wish fulfillment, where the author creates a character or scenario that caters to their personal desires. This can lead to characters feeling unrealistic, and the narrative may seem more about the author's fantasies rather than a compelling story.

How is the character of Velma in the *Velma* TV show perceived as a self-insert?

The character of Velma in the *Velma* TV show is seen as a self-insert of Mindy Kaling, the executive producer. Kaling has stated that she identifies with Velma and even changed her race to reflect her own identity. However, the drastic changes to Velma’s personality and behavior in the show make her feel disconnected from the original character.

What is the critique about the *Velma* show regarding character changes?

The critique of the *Velma* show focuses on how the characters have been altered from their original forms. Not only have their appearances changed, but their personalities have also been modified, making them feel unrecognizable and forcing the story to fit the creators' desires rather than staying true to the established characters.

How do the writers of *Velma* handle humor in the show?

The humor in *Velma* is often criticized for being flat, as it tends to focus on making statements through the characters rather than developing genuine jokes. This approach can make the humor feel more like a platform for the writers' opinions rather than organic comedy that connects with the audience.

What are the main criticisms of the tone of *Velma*?

The tone of *Velma* is often described as mean-spirited, with the show regularly mocking the original Scooby-Doo franchise. The humor and commentary are seen as self-indulgent, catering more to the writers' perspectives rather than engaging with a broad audience or respecting the legacy of the franchise.

How does the *Velma* show differ from other shows with self-inserts, like *Gravity Falls*?

Unlike *Velma*, which alters an existing franchise, *Gravity Falls* uses self-inserts in a more effective way. The show is an original creation by Alex Hirsch, and while it draws from his personal experiences, it offers a story that resonates with a wide audience. The self-insert is integrated into a compelling narrative, not as a wish-fulfillment tool.

What makes *Gravity Falls* a successful example of self-inserts?

In *Gravity Falls*, the characters Dipper and Mabel Pines are based on Alex Hirsch and his twin sister, Ariel. The show draws from Hirsch’s childhood experiences, blending personal storytelling with universal themes, which allows the audience to connect with the characters. This use of self-insert is effective because it remains grounded in an original, universally appealing narrative.

Why do the creators of *Velma* not seem to acknowledge the self-insert allegations?

The creators of *Velma*, particularly Mindy Kaling and Charlie Grandy, have not openly denied the self-insert allegations. Instead, they seem to embrace them, as Kaling has acknowledged her identification with Velma and made changes to the character to reflect her own background. This approach has led to a show that feels more about the writers than the original characters or the audience.

What is the main difference between self-inserts in original IPs versus adaptations?

Self-inserts in original IPs, like in *Gravity Falls*, can be more effective because the creator has full control over the story and characters. However, in adaptations of existing properties, such as *Velma*, the self-insert can feel forced, as it may conflict with the established history and expectations of the original characters, alienating the audience.