What Is The “Vision Girl” Trope? And Why Is It Back?
The deeper you get into screenwriting, the more you learn about specific tropes and character archetypes that pop up over time, from classical literature to modern Netflix series.
These tropes are helpful when you’re breaking a story or developing a character; they illuminate how these elements were used before and allow you to put your own spin on them today.
Today, I want to explore the Vision Girl trope, examine its usage, and discuss what makes it special, as well as how to adapt it for contemporary storytelling.
The Vision Girl Trope Definition
Scarlett Johansson as Midge Campbell in ‘Asteroid City’
Credit: Indian Paintbrush
The Vision Girl is a female character whose primary narrative function is to provide guidance, insight, or add a sense of destiny for the male protagonist. This woman is characterized by her mystical perception of the world.
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Expanding on Other Tropes
This trope is closely related to others like the Manic Pixie Dream Girl, who exists to teach a gloomy man how to enjoy life, and the Magical Negro, a Black character who serves solely to provide wisdom and aid to the white protagonist.
Characteristics of the Vision Girl
When building out one of these characters or recognizing them in media, look for these characteristics:
- The
