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* CoolGuns, of course a must for any heroic ranger or egomaniac hunter.
** Try some subversions like an arm cannon.
** Bladed weapons are more fitting underbrush when navigating the rainforest, in addition to protecting oneself.
** Try some subversions like an arm cannon.
** Bladed weapons are more fitting underbrush when navigating the rainforest, in addition to protecting oneself.
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** A good modern approach is making him a YouTuber, filming their adventures and discoveries in the rainforest.
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** A good modern approach is making him a YouTuber, [=YouTuber=], filming their adventures and discoveries in the rainforest.
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[[folder:Aesthetics Set Designer, Location Scout]]
* AlternateHistory: Where the colonial age is still in effect in modern day, where we never left the technology of the 20th century etc. AlienSpaceBats might help here.
* A crashed CoolStarship or plane that CameFromTheSky
* AbandonedMine: Possibly more dangerous than an active one.
* AlienLandmass: For LostWorld or PlanetaryRomance stories ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin.
* AcidPool: Can come from ToxicInc, but it’s also okay to have it occur naturally.
** GrimyWater is also a good idea for a setting.
* AdvancedAncientAcropolis: A city of precursors with SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, MagicFromTechnology, Afrofuturism, or CrystalSpiresAndTogas.
** The inhabitants might have been whipped out by their own technology, but this is not required.
* AdventureFriendlyWorld: The jungle is this by default.
* Amazon Rainforest, a classic nightmarish, but beautiful area.
* AfterTheEnd: A post apocalyptic jungle, similar to Planet Of The Apes.
** UrbanRuins and UsedFuture are welcomed here.
* AgeOfReptiles is often good for a time travel story.
** It has even overlapped with AdventuresInTheBible obviously before Noah’s Flood.
* [[VestigialEmpire Ancient Empire]], similar to the RealLife Inca, Aztecs or Khmer, likely the Precursors of the various tribal cultures if fallen.
* AncientTomb: Related to, but distinct from the TempleOfDoom.
* Arena of Death: A place where a corrupt VestigialEmpire or LostTribe displays BreadAndCircuses and possible gladiatorial combat.
* TheArk: A spaceship likely to contain a jungle.
* BambooTechnology: This can look really cool in the background or used as an aesthetic in general akin to {{Steampunk}}.
* BioPunk: This aesthetic could really work if you have an EvilutionaryBiologist.
* BoomTown; A colony or new town, with large bustling industries and possibly some factories.
* BananaRepublic: A fictional equatorial dictatorship, and a non colonial version of TheEmpire.
* {{Bulungi}}: A fictional sub-Saharan African country.
* A cabin or shack where an action survivor lives.
* CityOfGold: classic.
* ConvenientlyEmptyRoads: Ancient roads created long ago or clearings used by ancient tribes or used by colonialists.
* CoolTrain: Many railroads ran through Africa and South America.
* CloseKnitCommunity: standard for any small town or friendly tribal village.
* A crashed Plane or CoolStarship that CameFromTheSky
* CreepyCave: Again classic.
* DangerousTerrain: Make sure to use loose or hazardous objects on the jungle floor, as some others leave their jungle floor rather bland, or just use grass, which is fine in clearings, but not under the thick canopy away from sunlight. Due to the RuleOfCool and real life tribal cultures, it’s possible that a highly trained character like a Tarzanesque will still be able to navigate subconsciously and easily, but despite the name not all the terrain should be hazardous either. Flowers, damp leaves, grass (in clearings) and other pleasant terrain features would also exist.
** In general, sticks, dead leaves and roots can be found on the jungle floor.
** Loose rocks are common in tribal villages, near rivers and on rocky terrain in general, especially volcanic soil.
* DarkestAfrica: It's an old one, but a good one.
* DieselPunk: Another genre and aesthetic born from pulp that often overlaps here.
* Dystopia: Either the colonial power of TheEmpire themselves or a subversion of the CannibalTribe. FalseUtopia is also welcomed.
* ElephantGraveyard: A graveyard of large animals like elephants, rhinos or even dinosaurs.
* EldritchLocation: A good place to find ancient primordial gods and monsters.
* EndlessWinter; The Amazon jungle has the Andes Mountains; The Congo has the Virunga Mountains, which are both most always covered in snow.
** The jungle itself gets cold at night with the degree dependent on elevation. On a high lush mountain, the temperature will drop significantly more than at sea level.
* ExtranormalPrison: Perfect for holding an eldritch abomination. Likely an ancient temple.
* {{FloatingContinent}}: Large lush floating islands suspended in mid air. Waterfalls coming off the sides are common because of the RuleOFCool.
** A floating city so civilization is in the sky and wilderness is below would be an interesting subversion.
* GlowingFlora: because BioluminescenceIsCool
* HollowWorld: Down where prehistoric life dwells, people included, as well as your odd Bronze age civilization, Barbary pirates, what have you!
* InjunCountry: A territory belonging to native peoples. Can be taboo.
* LavaAddsAwesome: Volcanoes are always welcome in a hungry jungle, especially if there is going to be a lost civilization or battle there.
* Lush Caves BeneathTheEarth
* LostWorld: A normal location, pocket dimension or even another planet that is completely inaccessible under normal circumstances. Sometimes in the GrimUpNorth.
* LocalHangout: a cantina is a good choice in south American settings. Possibly has the SaloonOwner and JungleJazz. If it's in BoomTown on another planet, a BarFullOfAliens is welcomed.
* MerchantCity: Bustling cities and trading post of bustling markets, usually including slave auctions, and even possibly a brawling cantina. Also likely to be a CityOfSpies.
* OrphanageOfFear: Usually appears in backstories.
* OutcastRefuge: A good place to find TheMissionary.
* OutlawTown; a small settlement absolutely crawling with {{Outlaw}}s. It could even be merely a camp of rogue soldiers.
* {{Prison}}: Dangerous due to more hostile conditions and inmates.
* QuicksandSucks, of course
* RetroUniverse: Of course this trope was most popular in the early to mid 1900s, so expect that asthetic.
* RopeBridge: A classic long narrow path to hand over a deep lush canyon.
* [[DownOnTheFarm Ranch]]: Home of the Vaquero and common in South American countries. Also perfect for a more WildWest tone.
* RuinsForRuinsSake: A classic here as well. AlienGeometry is also welcomed here.
* [[KirksRock Rock Formations]]: beautiful rocky terrain to contrast the lush green jungle.
* ScavengedPunk: A welcomed aesthetic in poor towns or among {{Outlaws}}.
* SecretRoom: Great for hiding an AncientArtifact to set off the plot.
* TheShangriLa: An oriental jungle location.
* Ships or Submarine: You will spend a lot of time here if you are or you are with [[RuthlessModernPirates River Rats]], a Venturous Smuggler or a simple River Merchant.
* SmallTowns: Many exist in Central and South America. Small settlements with smaller populations. Setting wise, they are halfway between the village of the LostTribe and the BoomTown.
** DyingTown
** SmallTownRivalry might occur
* ShrinesAndTemples: Ancient, though still used, temples are good places to be mentored or trained.
* SingleBiomePlanet: a jungle planet, expect AlienSky.
** An artificial RingWorldPlanet can also work.
* SpiritWorld: Depends on the author and tone. Might to anything from simply the afterlife like WarriorHeaven or actual heaven, to things like a pocket dimension.
* {{Steampunk}}: Usually it has themes of exploration and adventure, and sometimes overlaps with this genre, but is also generally a good aesthetic.
* SwampsAreEvil: “What are you doin' in my swamp!?”
* TempleOfDoom: This is somewhat of a must have if you have an AdventurerArchaeologist.
** AlienGeometry and BiggerOnTheInside is welcomed here.
* ThirstyDesert: Of course the savanna or similar dry grassland is likely to appear, but the jungle is hot and can be treated this way if the water is not drinkable. Kipling made drinking long and deep part of the Law of the Jungle for a reason.
* TreehouseOfFun: A must have for any good TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess. Just make sure to load it with BambooTechnology.
* TreetopTown: You know what’s better than one one Treehouse of fun loaded with BambooTechnology, rope swings and zip lines? Why a whole village of them interconnected obviously.
* [[TropicalIslandAdventure Tropical Island]] An easy to use classic in this genre.
* UndergroundCity: Another classic here.
* UsedFuture: Old technology often works well in the jungle, and the same applies when this genre is mixed with PlanetaryRomance, DieselPunk, {{Steampunk}} or other forms of ScienceFiction in general.
* WhenItRainsItPours: Especially true in the Jungle.
* WorldOfSymbolism: An interesting variation on the LostWorld.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Prop Department]]
* AncestralWeapon: A weapon passed down through generations.
* AncientArtifact: Usually a powerful relic left behind by a magical ancient culture AdvancedAncientHumans or even AncientAstronauts.
* AlienBlood: For BigCreepyCrawlies if not actual aliens.
* Axes: The axe has a place in the jungle, both as a tool and as a potential weapon.
* BambooTechnology: Very underrated. Look at Website/YouTube videos to see what someone can build with just a stick in the middle of a jungle.
* BattleBoomerang: A possible hunting tool of the BadassNative that can be adapted for combat.
** A DeadlyDisc could also be used.
* BlowGun: A common hunting tool.
* BolderBludgeon: Rocks make great improvised weapons.
* BoomStick: likely used by a lost empire.
* BowsVersusCrossbows: Crossbows not only existed in Africa, but this is also a good choice for a JunglePrincess, as normal bows require a lot of upper body strength to use, but a Crossbow is often more powerful with less required force from the wielder. It also highlights her intelligence, sense her weapon would be more mechanical.
** An AutomaticCrossbow is also a possibility with BambooTechnology.
* Canteen: (normal or handcrafted) is a good idea due to how important hydration and access to clean water is in the jungle.
* CoolAirship: a must in a {{Steampunk}} story.
* CoolBoat: A must for pirates and river merchants.
* CoolBike: Motercycles look cool in any jungle.
** HoverBike is also welcomed, especially due to it’s utility on uneven or hostile terrain.
* CoolCar. You need something stylish and capable of handling all terrain for navigating the jungle. A vehicle that has a mounted gun or is amphibious, is really cool.
** A hover vehicle is more plausible for the rough terrain.
** HoverBike it looks cool fits perfectly in a [[{{Steampunk}} Steam]] or DieselPunk setting.
** An actual hovercraft is also a great alternative from RealLife, as they are often used for harsh terrain.
* CoolGuns, of course a must for any heroic ranger or egomaniac hunter.
** Try some subversions like an arm cannon.
** Bladed weapons are more fitting underbrush when navigating the rainforest, in addition to protecting oneself.
* CoolPlane: A great choice for any AcePilot and some VenturousSmugglers.
** Even in a space setting, a SpacePlane would be very fitting.
* CoolStarship: Probably loaded with SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, and tied to the AncientAstronauts.
** EldritchStarship is a welcome alternative.
* DeviousDaggers, even for the JunglePrincess or TarzanBoy.
** Unarmed combat entirely like extreme matinal arts, can be impractical, but the RuleOfCool often makes it forgivable.
* DoubleWeapon; Usually impractical in any genre, but forgiven by the RuleOFCool.
* EveryDeviceIsASwissArmyKnife: A do anything tool, even a standard Swiss Army Knife works well in this survival setting.
** A SwissArmyWeapon would also be a welcomed addition.
* EnergyBow: Probably a piece of SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* FlareGun: A common tool used by stranded or lost characters.
* GRatedDrug: Drug trafficking is common in rainforests, but a more fantastical illegal substance might be less risky.
* [{{BFG Guns}}]: Usually more common among villains. RevolversAreJustBetter are a good option for the Big Iron used by the {{Ranger}}. Criminals like the EgomaniacHunter or {{Outlaw}} can use far less orthodoxia and less legal weapons though, like the SawedOffShotgun.
** Give them to your hostile tribes, as some tribes historically traded for firearms, and if their evil anyway, what’s to stop them from illegal arms trading.
* HazardousWater: Hydration is extremely important for survival in the jungle. Kipling even made drinking long and deep part of the law of the jungle. So you can easily see how this can be a problem.
* InstantSedation: In whatever form will likely be a common tool by the villains.
** Chloroform is classic here.
** You can use toxins of a dart frog for something more unique to the jungle.
** The heroes can use this too, if they want to avoid killing. SaveTheVillain. This is also less risky for a hunting protagonist.
* JungleDrums: Often used for communication between tribes. Giving specific patterns meaning is an interesting possibility for {{Worldbuilding}}.
** Ecploring other forms of low tech long range communication are more than welcomed. These can be anything classic smoke signals to a RealLife form of whistle based language that allowed farmers to communicate well over a mile.
* LostSuperweapon: A powerful MacGuffin that can instantly destroy either the jungle or the whole planet.
* LaserBlade: This elegant weapon for a more civilized age is likely an invention of TheProfessor or a piece of SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology wielded by the Tarzanesque or BadassNative.
* MagicStaff; Common for a Shaman or WitchDoctor and a must for a WizardDuel.
* MartialArtsStaff; A simple but efficient weapon.
* {{Mecha}}: Either a piece of lost SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, an invention of TheProfessor or an extreme example of BambooTechnology, likely an AnimalMecha or HumongousMecha.
* MixAndMatchWeapons: More than welcomed especially for a Tarzanesque crafting it by hand.
* NightVisionGoggles: Possibly used by soldiers.
* [[KiteRiding Personal Gliders]]: If you have bamboo technology.
* PoisonedWeapons: Any form of poisoned weapon is welcomed. At the very least, poisoned arrows are a must BadassNative or Tarzanesque using bows or crossbows.
* PrimitiveClubs; Very common for FrazettaMan.
* RayGun: Welcomed in a PlanetaryRomace, or {{Steampunk}} setting or even SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
** You can still give them to hostile tribes dealing in arms trading.
* RetractableWeapon: Pairs nicely with BambooTechnology.
* RopeBridge: Very likely to be unstable.
* [[SuperCallRecepttion Sat lite Phone]]: Great for a BoldExplorer to carry.
** A ham radio is also a great option.
** Other communications tech like two-way radios are a must if there is a team.
* [[LuckilyMyShieldWillProtectMe Hide Shields]]: Welcomed for any BadassNative.
* ShockStick; An EgomaniacHunter might use this on animals, but he might also use it for ColdBloodedTorture.
* Spears: A common and effective weapon in this genre, and in real life. They are often supirior to a sword in one on one combat.
** NaginatasAreFeminine; It’s perfectly fine for characters like the JunglePrincess to be physically weaker than their male counterparts, but less brute force shouldn’t correlate to less capable in combat. Therefore using pole weapons with more leverage makes a lot of sense.
* SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology as well. AdvancedAncientHumans always pair nicely with an AdventurerArchaeologist.
** You can even utilize some of the 70/30Rule, especially if your work overlaps with [[{{Steampunk}} Steam]] or DieselPunk. If you want to give your TarzanBoy a HoverBike or give your JunglePrincess a LaserBlade, go ahead.
** It doesn’t even have to be explicitly another science fiction trope, as having a high tech AncientArtifact, a high tech lost empire or an intelligent LostTribe that reverse engineered technology from ThePrecursors is more than welcomed.
* SufferTheSlings: Slings are an underrated and highly effective ranged weapon that can be found in the Amazon and Congo.
* Superweapon: The new toy of the EvilColonialist and TheEmpire they work for, to take care of those "pesky savages" so they can plunder what is left of the jungle.
** A SyntheticPlague is a good option here.
* [[{{BFS}} Swords]]: From the Khmer Empire’s [[KatanasAreJustBetter katana-like Dha]] blades, to the Aztec Empire’s obsidian shard lined clubs, to the Ida of Africa, most tropical societies had functional machete like swords. Expect SwordFight.
** At the very least, machetes are a must. They even have a martial arts system similar in some ways to fencing.
** You can even take this further with a FlamingSword, WhipSword or LaserBlade.
* A TimeMachine is perfect for the inciting incident sending the protagonist back to the AgeOfReptiles, back to an ancient jungle empire, the colonial period or forward to an AfterTheEnd jungle. Even the TARDIS had a JunglePrincess passenger.
** You can even have an [[SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology ancient temple]] with several [[PortalToThePast Portals To The Past]], or a gateway to a PortalCrossroadWorld.
* TreasureMap: A map to the AncientArtifact.
** Or a MagicCompass.
* WantedPoster: used by HiredGuns, and identify {{Outlaw}}s
* Whip: A classic weapon for the AdventurerArchaeologist and a good choice for the EgomaniacHunter on animals or even the EvilColonialist.
** A LightningLash would also work.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Character Artist and Costume Designer]]
The costumed are pretty iconic in this genre. Jungle explorers usually wear breathable clothing with lots of pockets, tools and boots, while jungle dwellers are typically scantily clad in animal skins. It’s far better to make the designs as distinct as possible. A simple AdventurerOutfit or FurBikini isn’t going to cut it. Instead opt for a MeaningfulAppearance, with small details or outfit subversions will both make your characters stand out and signal to the audience who your characters are. Also keep in mind practicality and RuleOFCool rather than RuleOfSexy.
* MeaningfulAppearance: If you want your characters to look unique, than starting here is an absolute must. Make sure you make costumes fit the characters rather than the other way around.
* AdaptationalModesty: It’s more than welcomed to subvert the classic FurBikini or {{Loincloth}} as alternatives are far less risky than the FanService everyone else uses. Even for RealLife cultures with looser modesty standards, going for modesty is seen as far more respectful than objectifying people based on the cultural dress. It also helps avoid AuthorAppeal dragging down the plot and characters. Additionally, many tribal cultures do have very strict sexual taboos and traditions involving modesty and protecting oneself from the sun and insects. This can also be a great asset to {{Worldbuilding}}.
** Take inspiration from real life.
** Make your costumes distinct from those of previous characters. You can include things like accessories and weapons of choice really come in handy here.
* AdventurerOutfit: Standard for the BoldExplorer or AdventurerArchaeologist. You can also try making it more modest as most explorers in real life had to have more protection from the sun and insects. BootsOfToughness and fingerless gloves are often used here.
** Make sure the outfit is still unique and reflects the characters’ personalities.
** BareMidriffsAreFeminine is common among female explorers. Although it can be a JustifiedTrope for heat and mobility, there is far less protection from sunlight or insects, so it’s best to avert this unless your adventurer is accustomed to the climate, including local diseases.
** A BadassLongcoat, albeit a much more breathable version or a some kind of raincoat could be interesting.
** CoatHatMask or GasMaskLongcoat would be excellent subversions here, even if a bit impractical.
** Ponchos are also welcomed.
** Don't be afraid to incorperate CraftedFromAnimals, especially for villains and {{Outlaw}]s.
* AmuletOfConcentratedAwesome: A good choice for your Shaman or WitchDoctor.
* ArmedLegs: A good choice for a {Steampunk}} or DieselPunk story is weaponized shoes.
* ArtificialLimbs: The jungle is a very dangerous place where one can easily loose a limb to man or beast, so this trope is welcomed in character design, especially in a {{Steampunk}} or DieselPunk story.
** Obviously, ArtificialLimbsAreStronger robotic limbs are a great option for TheProfessor and their friends or the EvilutionaryBiologist, but are far from limited to them. They might even have a SwissArmyAppendage. ArmCanon is also welcomed.
** Robotic limbs can even work really well on the AdventurerArchaologist {{Ranger}}, {{Outlaw}} or even just an ActionSurvivor. They might end up with a hook, pegleg, or even an EyepatchOfPower from their adventures.
** This could even be extreme BambooTechnology.
** CyberneticsEatYourSoul would be very interesting for the EvilColonialist. They can even be a TinTyrant.
* AwesomeAnachronisticApparel: Becouse this genre is often set in the past, this is more than welcomed no matter the time period.
* AwesomeBackpack: Standard for any BoldExplorer, their associates or their guides.
* BadassBandolier: a good choice for HiredGuns and rebel soldiers.
* BadassCape: The temperature in the jungle does drop at night, especially in higher elevation, so a handcrafted cloak or cape might make sense on occasion.
* BadassesWearBandanas: Cloths and bandanas are practical to clean sweat, collect dew or even conceal one’s identity.
* BadassLongRobe: Probably for a shaman, or [[BadassNative Badass Natives]] in general. Long and loose clothing is often used to protect against sunlight and insects by indigenous cultures.
* BarbarianLongHair: is usually welcomed for a TarzanBoy.
** WildHair downplayed to just ratty hair, can work excellently for the JunglePrincess.
** Subvert PermaShave, for example, a BeardOfBarbarism, albeit a much lighter version as well as CarpetOfVirility could really follow the RuleOfCool.
** ManlyFacialHair can work well for explorers and Egomaniac Hunters alike.
** TimePassageBeard is common for stranded o characters who GoMadFromTheIsolation.
* BeautyIsNeverTarnished
** Subverting this to add dirt, stains, battle scars and the like, follow the RuleOfCool.
** Making outfits more modest and less sensual as well, far less risky and makes sense with the elements of sunlight and insices. You don't have to use hijabis, tunics and robes, nor do you reed a FurBikini for heat and mobility.
* BattleBallgown: Likely to appear in a {{Steampunk}} setting.
* CoolHelmet: As well as CoolMask are welcomed for the army of the EvilColonialist or even an EgomaniacHunter trying to distinguish themself.
* CoolShades: They look cool, but protection from the sun is also important in the rainforest.
* CraftedFromAnimals: Exotic pelts and teeth for clothing is common in this genre and RuleOfCool demands it be used liberally.
** Other natural materials, like linen and burlap or even a more BoHo looking style is welcomed.
** It's okay to avert using furs and leather for primary dress, as they don't keep well in the jungle and would likely be very unconformable. Per the RuleOfCool, using pelts for outerwear and ornamentation is welcomed.
** It’s okay for you do have outfits CraftedFromAnimals as a trophy of the character's prowess, but KillingInSelfDefense or to protect someone else would be far less risky.
** Additionally, outfits CraftedFromAnimals would be interesting for HiredGuns, an EgomaniacHunter and various {{Outlaw}}s.
* FedoraOfAsskicking: Mot only is this an iconic piece for an AdventurerArchaeologist, but it’s also a great option for the jungle in general to protect from sunlight.
** Alternatives like a regular cowboy hat would provide the same function. You could also try something handcrafted like [[AllAsiansWearConicalStrawHats A Rice Concial.]]
* [[MeaningfulAppearence Fingerless Gloves of Edginess]] are a practical and cool addition to any outfit and generally always appear at some point in jungle opera stories.
** You can even utilize them, or at least HandwrapsOfAwesome, for a jungle dweller instead of just the BoldExplorer, as it makes more sense to protect the hands if a character is often climbing trees a lot. Adding claws or blades can easily invoke the RuleOFCool.
* FurBikini: or {{Loincloth}}: Although averting this is more than welcomed, these tropes are okay if you keep it appropriate, if it’s used to emphasize the jungle hero’s physical prowess and fearlessness, and if it fits the {{Worldbuilding}} of a character’s culture.
** Try using more than just a bikini. Take inspiration real cultural dress; for example, you could have a longer authentic loincloth, a bandeau top, a wrapped top, a sarong etc. Maybe add some accessories as well like wearable weapons, holsters, warpaint, HandwrapsOfAwesome, jewelry, the previously mentioned expect CraftedFromAnimals etc. The RuleOfCool demands it.
** Pieces of naturally crafted armor like a handcrafted pauldron, shin or arm guards {{Sarashi}} armor etc. are more than welcomed.
** Don’t forget to worldbuild your culture’s modesty standards. Just because they wear less doesn’t mean that they have no concept of modesty. Tribal cultures in RealLife have often have very strict sexual taboos so it's important to acknowledge this in your worldbuilding. For example, a bare midriff might be normal, but [[https://youtu.be/Fs72G3fIlog?si=MHCZ78IjQLBzzkfC the face is scandalous]]
** Use other materials. Fur and leather wouldn’t keep as well in the jungle, and it’s another way to make your costumes distinct.
** Don't be afraid to modernize the concept. Shorts or torn pants due to ClothingDamage are welcomed alternatives. The character might also opt for a classic AdventurerOutfit entirely, from trading. This is also more than welcomed, but make sure they still have a jungle dwelling survivalist aspect such as handcrafted jewelry, hand wraps, war paint and of course going barefoot.
** Please avoid Author Appeal It will drag down your plot and characters.
* GadgetWatches: A good choice for TheProfessor or the BoldExplorer he is working with. Having a walky talky is a great option for keeping in contact.
** A SuperWristGadget or TrickedOutGloves can also work.
* GogglesDoSomethingUnusual: More than welcomed for TheProfessor.
* GoodColorsEvilColors: can be played with a lot, especially given the vibrant styles of various tribal cultures.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: A classic for the JunglePrincess. Usually the second part is left out for a flat MightyWhitey who thinks she is a queen or goddess. This can be interesting if the trope was played but straight.
** Of course there is no limit to hair color here. If you want a WorldOfTechnicolorHair, that's perfectly fine. It might even be an interesting JustifiedTrope if it hair dying tied into an ancient tribal tradition.
* HiddenWeapons: Would work very well for a Tarzanesque.
* EverythingsSparklyWithJewelry: this is a must for a JunglePrincess TarzanBoy or BadassNative. Things like earrings, necklaces, bracelets and anklets can add to a unique character design.
** MagicalAccessory is more than welcomed AncientArtifact.
** Using a kind of GlowingGem is more than welcomed, especially if you have a MagicalAccessory, but not necessarily limited to it.
** Even the men wear jewelry in many jungle cultures.
* LabcoatOfScienceAndMedicine: Might be used by an EvilutionaryBiologist or even TheProfessor.
* [[SwordAndSandal Light Sandals]]: (Or foot wraps) Depending on character preferences or how extremely hazardous the jungle floor actually is with scorpions, insects and thorny plants etc. It's perfectly understandable why one would subvert the classic EarthyBarefootCharacter trope. In such cases however, you might opt to go with footwear that's common for indigenous cultures of the jungle in RealLife.
** Moccasins have been used for the Tarzanesque before, but they aren’t recommended. They are more associated with temperate cultures and might look out of place on jungle dwellers.
* MartialArtsHeadband: Can work for some warrior characters.
* MaskOfPower: Either used by an {{Outlaw}} to conceal their identity or MaskingTheDeformity, used to protect the GasMaskMooks of ToxicInc., or it can even be used by the Tarzanesqque.
** The DominoMask is a bit overrated, so it makes sense to opt for something more practical like a gas mask, a ninja cloth or bandana, which can be more effective.
** CoolMask is also welcomed.
* MinidressOfPower: A fur, leather or vegetation variation has been used for the JunglePrincess before and the added modesty makes it a good alternative to the FurBikini.
** Most artists and writers still forget to add details and accessories to make the outfit distinct. Taking inspirations from real tribal dress is an excellent way to avoid this problem. In general, remember to use the RuleOFCool and make outfits fit the character rather than making the character fit the outfit.
** ShortsOfModesty are obviously a good idea here.
* PrefersGoingBarefoot: This practically a staple of this genre for jungle dwelling characters, especially for the TarzanBoy and JunglePrincess. [[JustifiedTrope Justified]] for traveling through the trees, It typically demonstrates to the audience how knowledgeable the characters are about the hostile environment, It’s not unrealistic as since RealLife jungle dwellers manage to navigate barefoot without much problem, even in the Amazon with bullet ants and scorpions. It would be unrealistic to ignore the shift in lifestyle for someone who is used to shoes. Independent research is recommended.
** Avoid the risky MagicalBarefooter as it involves stereotypes related to animism or primitiveness. As one of the editors of this article who grew up in the country and near the ocean can tell you, rural or coastal dwelling people often go barefoot all the time, even in western societies, but it’s purely out of preference and comfort and has nothing to do with a mystical connection to the earth. Additionally, making it a quirk can really add to a character.
** HandwrapsOfAwesome are still a great option here. If you spend a lot of time in the trees, you need you feet to be flexible agile and have a better grip, however a little hand protection makes sense. It also looks cool.
** Also, you should subvert BeautyIsNeverTarnished, as habitual barefooters, especially in the jungle, will have scars and dirt from their lifestyle and more spread out toes. The probably won’t have as many calluses though, because as the skin becomes thick and supple like leather, most dead calluses usually wear away.
** For Kipling's sake avoid AuthorAppeal. Just PLEASE NO!
* RaceLift: Use it liberally, as virtually all classic characters of this genre can work with any ethnicity or even as NotQuiteHuman.
** The race of your indigenous population also varies depending on where your story is set.
* [[ManInAKilt Sarong]]: (skirt like garment) is pretty standard for a BadassNative, but would also be a unique and practical costume for the TarzanBoy.
* {{Sarashi}}: In RealLife, similar tight wraps were used as armor by some African cultures, because the layers of cloth offered protection against melee attacks without being as uncomfortable as metal. This makes it a great choice for a BadassNative or Tarzanesque warrior.
** Normal armor like paulsrons, shin guards or bracers made from leather, wood r other natural materials are welcomed as well.
* ScavengedPunk, (aka Salvagepunk) for poor small towns and or designing costumes for of HiredGuns, rebel soldiers or the {{Outlaw}} in general.
* SexyVillainsChasteHeroes: would be an interesting subversion in general due to all of the Fanservice associated with this genre.
** Keep in mind though that modestly also means humility, so just making evil outfits more expensive, shiny or attention grabbing would also work. This is especially good to contrast with humble handcrafted clothing.
* ShouldersOfDoom: A Pauldron would be a piece of armor light enough to use without being too hot for the climate.
* StaffOfAuthority for chiefs and shamans.
* ThisMeansWarpaint: A must for a BadassNative, and more than welcomed for a Tarzanesque.
* UnorthodoxHolstering: Having various visible sheaths and holsters are more than welcomed on any outfit. Don't limit it to the belt though. Items and weapons carried on the back or legs can also look cool.
* UtilityBelt: Standard for an AdventurerOutfit, but also welcomed for the Tarzanesque.
* WeaponBasedCharacterization is a good way to keep your characters distinct. Giving your EgomaniacHunter use something other than a simple rifle, or giving your BadassNative and Tarzanesque something other than a simple hunting knife and bow is more than welcomed.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Casting Director for Heroes and Protagonists]]
The characters are pretty classic in this genre, such as the BoldExplorer, GreatWhiteHunter, TarzanBoy and JunglePrincess. Of course these characters are usually outsiders as the protagonist, exploring the jungle with the audience or feeling just as much of an outcast to the setting as the audience. Don’t let this mean that your characters are MightyWhitey. Mowgli was an outsider to his wolf family despite being native to India. PowerFantasy can also easily take away from the thrill of adventure and danger this genre is iconic for. Another trap an author might fall into is using an {{Expy}}, either of a preexisting characters, stock character or throwing in a crossover because the base characters have been recycled so many times. The rainforests of RealLife have seen every kind of person imaginable, so it’s not hard to find inspiration in history or present day. Additionally, {{Deconstruction}} and {{Reconstruction}} of classic tropes can make for intriguing versions of previous concepts. As for the {{Crossover}}, of course it is welcomed in this genre, but only when it comes organically from the themes and tone the author is trying to explore.
--> See Also: SoYouWantTo/MakeInterestingCharacters
--> Many of these have evil counterparts that will be explored in the “Villains” folder.
* TheAce: A leader of a team of explorers.
* AcePilot: A classic for taking people to and from the jungle, weather through the atmostphere or space.
* AdvancedAncientHumans: always welcomed to subvert HollywoodNatives. They will obviously have SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* AdventurerArchaeologist: Of course, but they don’t have to be an archeologist. They can be a paleontologist, anthropologist or any other kind of adventuring scientist, and they can come from any background.
* {{ActionGirl}}s: Why do you think the Amazon rainforest is named after the warrior women of myth?
* ActionSurvivor: This is less of a BoldExplorer, and more of your average audience insert, who is resourceful, and quick to adapt to the alien situations, and likely to become a love interest.
* [[BadassCrew Adventurer Team]]: A team of skilled and combat ready conservationists, anthropologists archeologists search team, explorers, missionaries or even venturous smugglers. A basic team set up probably would include, TheProfessor (a DoAnythingRobot if he has one_, TheAce, an ActionPet, CunningLinguist, an ActionPet and a standard Tarzanesque.
* AncientAstronauts are another interesting way to add lore and [[JustifiedTrope justify]] SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* AntiHeroTeam: Vigilantes devoted to a task, with some GreyAndGrayMorality.
* ArtificialAnimalPeople: A possible sick product of experiments by the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* [[BadassNative Badass Natives]]: Of course having skilled and intelligent natives is a must. Be sure they don’t become
[[NobleSavage Noble Savages]] or simply childish people. As characters, they should have their own motivations and personalities. Distinguishing them from each other is crucial. Don’t forget to [[{{Worldbuilding}} Worldbuild]] their culture.
* BadassBookworm: A must if you have TheProfessor and works very well with the Tarzanesque.
* BadassBureaucrat: A political leader who actually does good.
* BarefootLoon: A character who was likely stranded and isolated in the jungle for decades in which period he will GoMadFromTheIsolation. He also likely has a TimePassageBeard.
* BarbarianHero: A similar aesthetic in and cousin trope trope to the Tarzanesque. They likely live nearby in the snowy mountains. {{Worldbuilding}} their culture and making them distinct from thee Tarzaneque is a must. They are likely going to have different languages, modesty standards, diets, spiritual beliefs etc.
** You can also make them more suited to their environment with heavy armour, plenty of clothing, or [[TheOneWhoWearsShoes The Boots Of The Barbarian]]
* BoldExplorer: A classic here, but can also come from any background.
* BountyHunter: They can bring you in warm or they can bring you in cold and are usually anti-heroic HiredGuns.
** Because most are [[OnlyinItfortheMoney Only in It for the Money]], they can also be [[PunchClockVillain just as villainous]] as the usual {{Outlaw}}, if not [[PsychoforHire even worse]].
** An IdealHero version is also okay, but they still need to navigate their more lawless adversaries.
* TheChiefsDaughter: similar to the JunglePrincess, just less of an outsider and more of an actual Princess.
* CunningLinguist: A must for any Adventurer Team. Most always the AdventurerArchaeologist, Tarzanesque and TheMissionary will be one of these.
* {{Cowboy}}: More accurately the Vaquero, who drove cattle in tropical areas of Central America. Possibly a DeterminedHomesteader.
* DamselInDistress: (Or DistressedDude) The jungle is a great place to get captured. This is kind of required in the job description of any Tarzanesque, to be a BadassInDistress or at least a DamselOutOfDistress..
** Make sure that there is a good sense of danger. The character has to be actually powerless, at least for a little bit, but they never should become passive because they are helpless. They can try to trick or persuade the villain to give them something, think of a way to escape, [[PlayAlongPrisoner get captured for a higher goal]], [[TakeMeInstead be captured willingly to save someone else]], or just simply have good chemistry with their captor.
** BadassInDistress is a classic in this genre.
** JunglePrincess characters should always be at least a DamselOutOfDistress.
--> If your kidnapped individual can be replaced by a bag of gold than you are doing it seriously wrong.
* TheDrifter: a character who has survived in the wilderness and is good with weapons and often drifts from town to town, and village to village, fixing local problems in exchange for lodging or for help on his quest; most likely also happens to be the Tarzanesque character.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Many of these character have evil counterparts, and because many have an OnlyinItfortheMoney or PunchClockVillain nature, traditional villains like HiredGuns, the EgomaniacHunter, RuthlessModernPirates, many {{Outlaw}}s, or even the SinisterMinister can be allies when it suits them or assist as PsychoforHire.
* ForestRanger: More likely an AntiHero, this character is fully devoted to protecting their forest home. Not to be confused with the {{Ranger}}, who is further down.
* GreatWhiteHunter: They goes out looking for adventure involving capturing or killing game. They can be of any background despite the name. This character is highly risky due to controversy around hunting. Not all hunters are malicious though, and some do a lot of good unrelated to hunting, but because of how risky and dull this character is today, you should consider the following subversions.
** They might be a hired to protect a character from dangerous wildlife, or to capture a foreign animal to prevent it from spreading disease and overpopulating, for research purposes, or they might be hired to stop a dangerous monster attacking a village or town. The less risky InstantSedation is more than welcomed here.
** A good modern approach is making him a YouTuber, filming their adventures and discoveries in the rainforest.
** They could also primarily work as a BountyHunter.
** They could also be a straight up criminal like a RoguishPoacher, but this is very risky and depends on the author. See VenturousSmuggler below.
--> (Please do your own research as these controversial aspects as they will not be explored in this article, but ideas are welcomed in the discussion tab).
* TheGoodKing: A good chief who cares for their people is a must.
** Their tribe itself can still be hostile if the WitchDoctor has magical influence over them, similar to Theodin of Rohan in The Lord of the Rings.
** You can also use this trope to subvert the EvilColonialist, as a couple kings in the age of colonialism did go out of their way to provide humanitarian aid or ensure the indigenous population was treated well, often failing to do so because of corruption among their men and distance. Of course this doesn’t mean that colonialism should be justified, but it is an great opportunity for nuance. As always, character arc is welcomed.
* {{Hobbits}}: Using classic pigmies would be very risky, but a fantasy race instead might work.
* IdealHero: A classic in this genre, especially for characters like the Tarzanesque, the NatureLover, TheMissionary and the {{Ranger}}. Usually this is the main cast in the less intense Saturday morning stories, but in a more mature or realistic setting, they are likely going to be The TheDeterminator trying to navigate on the strait and narrow in such a lawless and hostile environment. Be sure to explore their moral compass and values rather than simply making them the good guys.
* LaResistance: Perfect for apposing the BananaRepublic or TheEmpire colonialists. In the less intense Saturday morning GreenAesop story, expect them to be YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters in more mature works.
* MageSpecies: Not quite human or alien creatures with strange abilities.
* TheMissionary: A religious character, most likely to be a BadassPreacher or BoldExplorer combined with RealMenLoveJesus, where he (or she) is a person of principals who fights for those principles with their life; very present historically, often stopping slavers and providing humanitarian aid. They are likely to be an AllLovingHero or something of an IdealHero, but they don’t have to be the only character like this.
** A good version of this to use is someone like the Circuit Riders of the Old West, who were less connected to colonial powers, operated relatively independently were usually good with weapons, traveled often and were known for adapting to different circumstances quickly.
** Also this character can justify a Tarzanesque, if they are survived by their child who is taught the tribal traditions of martial arts and hunting, but still maintains their parents' faith and principals. As an adult, these [[RealMenLoveJesus expect some overlap.]] Even if not a parent, a mentoring figure or teacher of languages is also welcomed.
** It's also worth mentioning that this character does not have to be a Christian. They might be of a more fantasy religion. They could be promoting a faith or tradition indigenous to the area. CrystalDragonJesus is useful here, but not required. (They definitely do not have to be white) Maybe they will be more focused on other forms of missions work like medical missions or education instead.
** They are more than welcomed to not be white. Many missionaries in RealLife are surprisingly local Also Fantasy races are interesting as always.
** You can also give them another profession on the side, as it is not only common in real life, but also make this character more distinct. They might be an Ecologist, Anthropologist, AdventurerArchaeologist, or even a regular BoldExplorer. There is a lot to play with here.
* MountainMan: A character who lives off the land alone away from society; often somewhat unstable. Maybe a victim of prejudice.
* NativeGuide: Someone indigenous to the continent or planet to guide the BoldExplorer, and by extension the audience through the new and dangerous setting. Of course, this character is often relegated to a forgettable side role unfortunately, but if he or she is handled right and the author takes care not to appropriate any real-world cultures, this character can make an excellent mentor or tutor for the protagonist.
* NatureHero: Also known as the Conservationist. Usually an ecologist or sometimes Tarzanesque characters themselves.
** Remember, it is not only welcomed, but most logical for them to be often threatened by a criminal who isn’t hurting the environment. The jungle is a dangerous place to people in general, especially with the criminals that inhabit it.
** It’s also ok for them to still have to deal with the [[NatureIsNotNice hostile nature]] around them rather than making them a FriendToAllLivingThings.
** A regular NatureLover or AnimalLover is more than welcomed.
** There is a danger of stereotypes around indigenous people and their beliefs. Instead of having your NobleSavage paint with all the colors of the wind, give them a more relatable less abstract motive, like how the resources they use being exploited by someone else will hurt their tribe.
* NobleSavage: A classic in this genre, but you might want to avert this. Real tribes are composed of people with very complicated cultures, and reducing it to being InHarmonyWithNature and painting with all the colors off the wind will really hinder your worldbuilding.
** These are people, so they should have their own motives and personalities. This isn't to say that cultural values are unwelcomed, as these are important to worldbuilding any culture. Something like Kipling's Law of the Jungle is always interesting. These values should not start with InHarmonyWithNature, because that can be seen as stereotypical and risky. Instead focus on things like loyalty to the tribe, respecting elders, respecting ancestors and traditions, storytelling, cleaning and sanitation, their diet, being resourceful, how to track, staying hydrated etc. These more grounded cultural values will make them feel more grounded and realistic. Environmental values are also more than welcomed, but they should be based around the tribe’s way of life and how the have learned to use and rely on the rainforest around them, rather than just being morally superior. Also, be sure to allow some people to be ignore taboos be hypocritical or even be malicious. Every culture has good and bad people in it.
** Their culture might also might vary in morality like any other culture. Tribes are small countries essentially, and some are peaceful and friendly, while others are dictatorial or invade neighboring tribes. Even a peaceful tribe will probably end up called to war eventually. Exploring how tribes interact with other cultures, especially other tribes, really adds to the {{Worldbuilding}}.
** It's actually a stereotype that all indigenous people worship nature, when in reality they use and rely on the rainforest around them for food, clothing and tools and this often effects their culture. Going with the latter approach will actually reinforce a GreenAesop, because when people exploit the rainforest around them, their people and way of life will actually suffer rather than merely being offended on the rainforest's behalf.
** While typically applied to non-white ethnic groups, the first examples of the trope originate in AncientRome and were applied to the very white Germanic tribes. With this in mind, they do not necessarily have to be non-white.
* NotQuiteHuman: Fantasy races and aliens for both a heroic LostTribe or Hostile Tribe are welcomed in this genre, and are generally less risky than classic human natives.
* NonPoweredCostumedHero: This is a must for the Tarzanesque, as apart from limited powers from an ancient artifact, they work best with a very vulnerable human aspect to them, but this trope is not limited to them, as even Batman met Tarzan once. Having a roguish hero protecting people in the jungle with epic skills and no superpowers, apart from or in addition to the Tarzaneesque, is more than welcomed.
* NubileSavage: Not recommended, but can be forgiven.
* PoliticalHostage: A possible DesignatedVictim or target of outlaws, terrorists, a corrupt cooperate executive, an obstructive bureaucrat or even an evil colonialist.
* TheProfessor: Usually an AbsentMindedProfessor or a BadassBookworm who is known for MacGyvering and being AwesomeByAnalysis. They are also the one whole builds most of the gear the explorer team world use. They might be a zoologist or botanist studying wildlife, an ecologist studying or protecting the ecosystem or a doctor trying to FindTheCure. They might even be a physicist who either invented a CoolStarship or TimeMachine that brought them to the LostWorld, or they are still in the ordinary world conducting experiments away from civilization that would make Nicola Tesla himself proud.
** He doesn't have to be white or even human.
* {{Ranger}}: with a [[RevolversAreJustBetter big iron on his hip]] and a mean RoundhouseKick, is an excellent law man for this genre.
** Remember, he will have the responsibility of stopping nature threatening and human threatening outlaws alike. If he doesn’t have enough funding to effectively stop poachers, he also doesn’t have enough funding to effectively stop TheSyndicate or RuthlessModernPirates.
** Having him recruit or deputize other characters like the Tarzanesque is far less risky. Making them close friends is more than welcomed.
* TheRepublic: Either a the protagonist ruling entity before they become a BananaRepublic dictatorship, or they are the good counterpart to TheEmpire, being a large country that will step in to help the local power because they have very good relations, the latter is most likely to be neutral. If they are more malevolent, they might turn turn the former into a PuppetState.
* RetiredBadass: Likely a soldier or Tarzanesque who has long feared that his sins would return to visit him.
* SamuraiCowboy: A very skilled warrior combined with TheDrifter. Likely the Tarzaneque character themself or the BadassNative.
* SuperSoldier: Can be an IdealHero, a villain or AntiHero. This is a mutant with actual superpowers, likely a experiment of the EvilutionaryBiologist or humane experiment of TheProfessor. It could have been discovered to be inhumane but the golden hearted volunteer probably insisted they keep going.
** AnimalIsTheNewMan is another alternative, but it can be flipped on its head if humans are viewed as animals.
** If they are heroic, playing down their powers really adds to the sense of danger. Inversely, evil super soldiers can have more exaggerated powers, really playing into the terrifying side of them as a jungle monster.
* SendInTheSearchTeam; A search and rescue unit.
* Shaman: Can be a unique mage or MentorArchetype. He is likely to be a BarefootSage. Sometimess they don't use magic functioning as just aa sage or philosopher, possibly with knowledge of local medicines or science that can be shared with outsiders as part of the tribe’s trade, but that's not as fun as making them an actual wizard, uusually with ElementalPowers like GreenThumb or Animorphism. They probably carry a MagicStaff. There are several ways to improve them from their hollow predecessors.
** They shouldn’t be more powerful because they are more InHarmonyWithNature. Not only is this stereotypical and risky, but magic by it definition is something that changes nature and is above it. Additionally if you make modern medicine and science look full by comparison it might come off as contrived. Make sure to make your own magic system rather than using HollywoodVoodoo, and remember [[FunctionalMagic magic limits]] are always more interesting than abilities.
** Weather magic is spiritual or [[ScientificallyUnderstandableSorcery connected to the laws of the universe]] depends on the author, their beliefs, and the tone of the story. Some might think that MagicIsEvil because of religioous convictions or simply want to make their magic stand out more, so such authors should consider using ScientificallyUnderstandableSorcery, and [[SufficientlyAnalyzedMagic Thaumaturgy]] and SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology. DoingInTheWizard.
** "Magic" as a word might be dull due to how often it is used in fiction. In some cases it might also be risky due to personal religous convictions or some people who have had bad experiences with the occult (especially in the jungle), therefore alternative names as well like Bending, The Force, Energy or any other form of MagicByAnyOtherName is more than welcome.
** Another possibility is that this is an angelic being who lives in the jungle to guide mortals, referee to as a Shaman by mortals who don’t understand their nature, similar to how Gandalf was seen as a Wizard in Middle Earth.
** KungFuWizard is more than welcomed.
** Make sure they have some limits to their abilities.
** This kind of character can overlap with TheMissionary, especially [[ReligionIsMagic if they are part of a fantasy religion]] as part of the Worldbuilding.
** They might also overlap with TheProfessor as a ScienceWizard.
* [[FamilyBusiness Small Business Owner]]: An honest business owner to contrast the CorruptCorporateExecutive, who might be their primary enemy, but they are also likely to be harassed {{Outlaw}}s intentionally trying to drive them out of business. They might end up looking for the AncientArtifact or lost treasure to save their FamilyBusiness.
* Tarzanesque: Of course the classic TarzanBoy, but this includes his more popular DistaffCounterpart the JunglePrincess. Whoever they are, they are likely an outsider usually orphan, though backstories can vary, who grew up in the jungle, and understands it intimately, as well as its various cultures and languages. They are normally good at CombatParkour traveling by VineSwing, have tat least one ActionPet. They are generally an EarthyBarefootCharacter and BadassNative who travels from town to town or village to village as the KnightErrant or even TheDrifter, and they often end up a BadassInDistress hunted or captured by enemies.
** Using the JunglePrincess is more than welcomed, but due to the horrible realities around human trafficking, objectifying someone of another culture and good character writing in general, please don’t make her MsFanservice. Just PLEASE NO! The same applies to the TarzanBoy, but he rarely suffers from the same problems as his DistaffCounterpart. AmazonianBeauty is more than welcomed, but by the RuleOfCool rather than RuleOfSexy.
** Personality is crucial. If they can't laugh, apart from pride at the defeat of an enemy, or can't weep (when it's appropriate at least) than you are doing something seriously wrong. Things like quirks, hobbies, desires, fears and friendships or phycological factors like their Dominant Sense or personality type are all means to make this character unique. Don’t simply use the classic Tarzan or Sheena template.
** Make their backstory unique. Seriously ask yourself questions about them and think outside of the box. Where do they come from? (Are they even human? Who were their biological parents? Do they come from a legacy of similar warriors? Are they a lost native? Are they the [[LastOfHisKind Last of Their Tribe/Kind]] after ThePurge? Do they come from a legacy of [[EvilColonialist Evil Colonialists]]? Were they foretold by a TheProphecy. Are they acctually orphaned, simply lost or are their parents evil?) How did they end up in the jungle? (Was it a magical, technological or criminal means? Did they willingly leave society or were they brought there against their will. Were they raised from infancy or are they a Robertsonade? (Are they trained or self taught? Who raised and who trained them?) How is their relationship to the local tribes and the jungle itself? (Do they experience prejudice? Did they have to gain their tribe's respect as an outsider? Do they see themselves as one of the tribe or animals that raised them? Are their biological parents potentially still alive?)
** Give them a unique Design and MeaningfulAppearance, because a simple FurBikini is not going to cut it. AdaptationalModesty, ornaments and acessories and [[WeaponBasedCharacterization unique weapons of choice.]] Are all more than welcomed. Making them another ethnicity or even NotQuiteHuman are more than welcomed. You should also try deconstructing the classic trope by giving them more skills in martial arts and stealth. In general think more GratuitousNinja than Ape Man or MsFanservice.
** Avoid PowerFantasy. Many characters here end up being a MartyStu or MarySue, where they can easily break out of any bonds, defeat any opponent, are worshipped as a ruler or deity, and why worry about the JunglePrincess with the dangerous animals if she can [[FriendToAllLivingThings Control Them?]]. True agency in a story includes the ability to fail and making hard moral choices.
** Also avoid MightyWhitey. Any ethnicity and background is welcomed for this character, and it's more than welcome for them to be a indigenous BadassNative, despite being an outsider to their families like Mowgli or to even be NotQuiteHuman entirely. No matter what the case, they should see themselves as one of the natives rather than superior to them. Humility is often considered a mark of a true hero.
** No HulkSpeak. Hulk Hate Hulk Speak, Hulk Speak used too much and make people look dumb. The better and less risky approach is having the character AwesomeByAnalysis, able to read animals and even people like a book through body language. They should also be very quick to pick up on languages, especially if they come from a tribal culture surrounded by tribes with other languages. It also makes sense for them to learn a few more foreign languages from TheMissionary. Also, an authentic unique accent local or foreign is a welcomed alternative to simple American.
** Although the IdealHero is common for this character, you should seriously consider their moral compass. Having a classic ideal hero who is compassionate, has close friends, mentors young warriors, protecting those that hate them, saving their enemies and general personal convictions are welcomed, but you still have to consider things like do they follow an ancient code from the tribe or the jungle and its beliefs tied to the {{Worldbuilding}} or did The Missionary have a [[RealMenLoveJesus big impact on them?]] Do they hunt because they see themselves as part of the food chain or do they refuse because they see themselves like the animals that raised them? Are they a heroic character that has a price on their head or are they merely an outcast? If you make them morally ambiguous, then are they an AntiHero or VigilanteMan? Would they work as a BountyHunter or are they an actual {{Outlaw}}?
** Don’t be afraid of their gender. If you have a JunglePrincess it’s okay for her to be compassionate, nurturing and good at multitasking, if you have a TarzanBoy, it’s okay for him to be actively heroic. It’s also okay to subvert them as well, but be sure it ties into a more complex character. Making a JunglePrincess masculine by making her stoic and dominating is a common sin when writing her. Even a Tarzan boy wouldn’t be interesting with the same personality. Additionally, it’s okay for the JunglePrincess to be physically weaker. If she is using a crossbow, preferring a pole weapon, or utilizing a martial arts style focused on dodging attacks and using the opponent’s strength, then these can all be more interesting than super strength.
--> See SoYouWantTo/WriteAnActionGirl for more info.
** Giving them an actual profession or trade could be very interesting. They can gather resources gather from plants, trade in crafts, independently farm or even take up bounties on criminals. How they use what they get can also help expand on their character. Do they donate to the local ecologist or the local missionary? Do they support their tribe in some way? Might they trade what little they get for books or to buy back culturally or personally significant items. Are they willing to get their hands dirty as an {{Outlaw}}?
** Give them distinct friends, apart from Animals and the attractive BoldExplorer. Family and friends, and their relationships really will help strengthen any character. Tribes are also sometimes a very CloseKnitCommunity, so a strong value of loyalty makes sense.
** Making them a BadassBookworm is more than welcomed. It might also be interesting if they cited multiple facts they learned from reading.
** Give them a unique name. Just because it ends with the letter “A”, that does not mean it works. The name should express some aspect of their role or personality as with any character.
--> SoYouWantTo/DevelopCharacterPersonality
--> SoYouWantTo/WriteABadass
* TimePolice: If TheProfessor isn't careful when travelling to the AgeOfReptiles or an AfterTheEnd [[SingleBiomePlanet jungle Earth]], he might encounter these guys.
* VenturousSmuggler: This is the Heroic Counterpart to the {{Outlaw}}. He is most likely to be a RoguishPoacher, {{Pirate}} or AcePilot and a JerkWithAHeartOfGold, but they're definitely a LovableRogue akin to Eugene Fitzherbert, Jack Sparrow, Captain Jack Harkness, Peter (Star Lord) Quill, Han Solo etc.
** They tend to follow some CodeOfHonor despite their dishonest lifestyle. They are usefully highly charming and charismaticas well.
** They can also be of any background, but might take offense if you called them scruffy looking.
** Due to their charismatic and charming personalities, they should have fun chemistry with characters, especially if they have different worldviews. They might even tell the JunglePrincess, "Look, your worshipfulness, let's get one thing straight, I take orders from just one person: Me"
** Take advantage of EvenEvilHasStandards. Maybe the RoguishPoacher would shoot animals, but draws the line at people and will go out of their way to defend the natives. "Professionals have standards"
** They might even thrown into a dishonest lifestyle after rebelling against a corrupt government like TheEmpire based on their principles, like Jack Sparrow telling Beckett, "People aren't cargo mate"
** Another possibility is having them directly fight against an evil power like the [[TheEmpire Colonial Empire]] or BananaRepublic JustLikeRobinHood.
** You can also make him a ReformedCriminal. Redemption is always a good theme and works perfectly for this character, but if you go this route make sure to call out their evils for what they are. Excusing or not recognizing how a redeemed rogue has committed serious crimes like theft or assault to law enforcement is a common flaw for the LoveableRogue.
** They might even be a morally good character like TheMissionary or Conservationist, smuggling food, medicine censored goods to those that need them.
** Alternatively, they might be and stay a rogue entirely depending on the author.
* VillainProtagonist: Due to how many evil counterparts this genre has, a story told from a villain's perspective might work very well, especially in a place as lawless and unforgiving as the jungle.
* WastelandElder: Either living in the nearby savanna and grasslands or being a veteran survivor of the HungryJungle.
* NinjaPirateZombieRobot: Tarzan has met several characters and monster from outside the genre.Parodies or recreations can work very well.
** Of course, just because another work or character had a cameo, doesn’t mean it inherently makes sense for your work. It’s a good idea to connect it more to the genre.
*** Which is better: Classic Conan, or a Tribe of Barbarians in the mountains? Frankenstein’s monster or an EvilutionaryBiologist putting together a monster made from corpses in native burial grounds and animal parts trading with poachers? Wear wolves or wear big cats.
** RuleOFCool says merging different concepts that don’t make sense at first can really work. Does a Tarzanesque ninja cyborg sound ridiculous? Of course. Is it cool? Definitely with sufficient effort and careful writing.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Casting Director for Villains and Foes]]
This genre has threats more Predatory than a tiger. The villain is a very important aspect to any real jungle opera, even if the antagonist is simply the hostile environment itself. This genre does have a long history of stereotypical or controversial villains but many can be reworked to be intriguing. Remember a villain needs more than disagreeing with the author to be a compelling threat, and aspects like comedy, threaten9ing presence, history with the cast, potential for redemption etc. all add depth.
A big pitfall can be adding something outside the genre or supernatural simply because audiences supposedly don’t enjoy realistic villains. In reality people simply don’t enjoy being preached to, so villains centered around political corruption, hurting ecosystems or human trafficking can come off as a mouthpiece for the author’s worldview rather than a nuanced thought provoking character if an author isn’t careful. Additionally, the jungle is such a hub of corruption and crime that finding inspiration for a unique villain from history or present day is far from hard. Of course a good EldritchAbomination or crossover is welcomed in this genre, but they should be used because they fit the tone or themes of the story the author is trying to tell rather than simply trying to be original.
--> See Also: SoYouWantTo/WriteAVillain
* HungryJungle: To start off, the jungle is already full of enough threats that it can make a compelling antagonist for a survival story. You should generally have classic Big Cats and Gorrillas on occasion, but focus on other nightmares like, Bullet Ants, and the Executioner Wasp (both of which deliver the most painful stings known to man), sharks, stingrays, disease carrying mosquitoes or ticks, large snakes and spiders, scorpions and tree frogs capable of [[AndIMustScream paralyzing you]] before death.
** Also focus on the DangerousTerrain itself, like the lava and sharp glass and lava from volcanoes, QuicksandSucks, natural disasters etc.
** Also, have some dangerous plants, like poisonous plants that cause itching and chemical burns, thorny plants (like tree cacti, wait a minute vines, nettles etc.), and of course classic Man Eating plants.
** {{PrehistoricMonster}}s can also be antagonists.
** While not an antagonist, sea mines drifting into rivers can be a serious obstacle.
* EvilAllAlong can work due to the sheer amount of evil counterparts of the main cast, but it’s not always recommended.
--> "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSmcGuPQi0A&pp=ygUcc2NoYWZmcmlsbGFzIHR3aXN0IHZpbGxhaW5zIA%3D%3D “That was his mistake”]]
* AlwaysABiggerFish: There is a surprising amount of ways villains can be layered. A dangerous animal is being hunted by an EgomaniacHunter, who is employed by an EvilutionaryBiologist, who is employed by an EvilColonialist, who is under the authority of TheEmpire, who is being led by an ObstructiveBureaucrat working for an EvilOverlord, who is working with an EldritchAbomination.
* [[AliensAreBastards Aliens]]: A possible dangerous enemy in the jungle.
* AntiVillain: Can be common in the lawless HungryJungle.
* [[ArchaeologicalArmsRace Artifact Thief]] are a must have for an ArchaeologicalArmsRace. They can be an ordinary smuggler and EgomaniacHunter trying to steal an ancient artifact for a quick buck, or they can be employed by or one of ThoseWackyNazis. They could even be a WitchDoctor who has their sights set on an ancient ArtifactOfDoom or Superweapon built by the AdvancedAncientHumans, seeking to rule the jungle with it.
* ArmsDealer: A dangerous criminal, who has even more dangerous weapons. They might be supplying your villains, even the hostile tribe realistically, with [[BFG fire arms]] or even a [[RayGun laser guns]].
** They need not be there to sell arms, they may be there to retrieve arms instead. A lost missile would certainly be something to attract their attention.
* [[ImAHumanitarian Cannibal Merchant]]: In locations where humans were bought and sold as slaves cannibalism was likely more of an industry and trade than a "savage" tradition of a local tribe, contrary to popular belief. In some locations it was also possible to find humans being bought and sold for meat in markets. Horrifically they were also kept alive and immobile to keep the meat fresh.
** There were also several historical secret societies that practiced cannibalism as well. This could justify a HighClassCannibal.
* CargoCult: especially if you have SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* CaughtInASnare: (Or an InescapableNet) or other trap left by a long inactive EvilPoacher or by a current hostile tribe.
* CorruptCorporateExecutive: This greedy ditbag cares little for the environment, much less his own employees. Of course he pollutes on purpose and uses under the table slave labor, but he might also compete for the AncientArtifact against the protagonists.
** Tip: Think less Captain Planet Villain, more Big Jack Horner.
* DecoyDamsel: Possibly hired to help lure out the Tarzanesque.
* DangerousDeserter: Rogue or rebel soldiers using Guerilla warfare. You can even have a whole section of the jungle controlled by them. A camp of them can be an excellent alternative to the captured by cannibals trope.
* DirtyCommunists: If working with a Cold War setting. They need not be Russian, as they could be Chinese, North Korean or even from a Soviet-allied state such as Katanga or South Kasai. Common for a BananaRepublic.
* DirtyCop: The corrupt and evil counterpart of the {{Ranger}}, who is more than happy to let the wrong {{Outlaw}}s off for the right price, or to frame an innocent person for money or power.
* FindTheCure; disease is also another default danger of the rainforest.
** The SyntheticPlague is more likely if you have an EvilutionarilyBiologist.
* TheFundumentalist: An negative counterpart to the IdealHero. PrejudiceAesop is common in this genre, so a character fully set in their worldview and unwilling to listen to other points of view is likely to come up eventually. This character is likely not [[KnightTemplar actually villainous]], and they usually experience a character arc instead. If they are more extreme, they likely fit a more villainous trope.
** TheMissionary is the most likely to be this, but keep in mind that this is not limited to religion. The NatureLover, DirtyCommunist and even the Shaman could be this as well.
** Additionally worldviews and religions multiple facets, so the Shaman, the NatureLover or TheMissionary might end up confronting a negative version of their faith.
** As mentioned before, this character is typically more flawed than actually villainous, so they are still distinct from their evil counterparts like the SinisterMinister, EcoTerrorist and WitchDoctor. Additionally, because this charactter is more of a flawed character, they might bee driven to join forces with someone they disagree with in order to defeat the actual BigBad.
* EcoTerrorist, the evil counterpart to the conservationist, who loves or even worships nature and is willing to do whatever it takes to defend it, even if that means breaking laws, destroying property or taking lives. They are usually used for VigilanteInjustice.
** There are two variations of this character;
*** The first is the misunderstood AntiVillain, who is more likely to only destroy property than actually kill people and are more likely to be redeemable.
*** The other version is far more extreme, but are willing to stop when they can rest and watch the sun rise on a grateful jungle. They see humans as expendable or even cancerous and they are willing to [[ThePurge Execute Order 66]] in order to "save their jungle."
** This character can even be an evil version of the TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess.
** They could also be or be part of an AnimalWrongsGroup.
** They don't have to be from the jungle either. Having someone from a foreign country, who doesn't entirely understand issues like the jungle dwellers, or a mad alien on a quest to balance the universe are both welcome.
* EgomaniacHunter: They may or may not be insane and engage in an extreme hunting purely for fun, for greed and for pride, and they usually dabbles in a little bit of [[HuntingTheMostDangerousGame murder and kidnapping]] as part of their sport, because they enjoys a good challenge. This is a classic in this genre, and he works very well because of how much of a direct threat they are to the protagonist, but due to how often they have been used, consider the following subversions.
** Instead of having this character new to HuntingTheMostDangerousGame or simply disposing of whitenesses, this character a would make an excellent SerialKiller. They would still poach of course and they can still enjoy the chase of the hunt with their targets, but having them target and hunt down specific innocent people would be a welcomed subversion.
** A more than welcomed and realistic subversion is making them PsychosForHire using his hunting skills for making more cash than just poaching, especially if they hunt humans anyway. They might also be [[ImAHumanitarian cannibal merchant]], who enjoys the chase more than usual.
** Give them a hobby or aesthetic other than poaching, something they can use as a calling card for their big crimes.
** They can be hired to hunt people, either as one of many HiredGuns, for genocide (see ThePurge below) or to provide both animal and human specimens for the EvilutionaryBiologist. (See Also: HumanTraffickers)
** Remember there is more to hunt in the jungle than animals. An Egomaniac Gold Miner or Egomaniac Archaeologist and the like are all welcome subversions, distinct from regular outlaws by their still having a focus on instincts. Even the ordinary egomaniac hunter can engage in other crimes if they are really interested in money without caring about the law. They might even use forced labor.
** Does not have to be white or even human. Fantasy races are more than welcomed as always. This character has also been an evil TalkingAnimal, like Sheer Khan.
** Related to but distinct from the EvilPoacher, as the latter often uses different tactics and has different customers. Poachers generally use more traps, focus less on sport, might have more sympathetic motives and generally deal in other contraband. The EgomaniacHunter is focused on instinct and enjoying the hunt itself, they might use their prey’s friends for bait and they are almost always [[ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin insane.]]
* EldritchAbomination: These were used in this genre by Lovecraft himself and can serve as an interesting BigBad or GreaterScopeVillain that the evil WitchDoctor, EvilutionaryBiologist, or EvilOverlord either worships or is [[AlliancewithanAbomination working for]].
** Giving them an interesting personality is more than welcomed. Try making them an actual villain rather than a mindless monster.
** They might not even be necessarily evil, but rather operate on [[BlueandOrangeMorality Blue and Orange Morality]]. This can also overlap with ObliviouslyEvil and/or AffablyEvil.
** They might be a former partner/mentor of TheProfessor. This could explain how TheProfessor knows so much.
** Keep in mind that traditionally bizarre and alien abominations are always more than welcomed, but if you're worried about breaking the overall aesthetic of a Jungle Opera, yet want to keep the same otherworldly terror, you might want to consider making it an AnimalisticAbomination or BotanicalAbomination, which are both explored in the plant and animal coordinator folder below.
* TheEmpire: An often dictatorial and colonial power, so they are usually NazisByAnyOtherName Expect employees like the EvilColonialist, and soldiers from the ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy.
** They don’t have to be colonial. They can simply be a local dictatorship,
* EvilColonialist: He cares about nothing but resources and power and is likely a GratuitousNazi.
** He might be an evil counterpart to the AdventurerArchaeologist.
** You can contrast him/her with TheMissionary, unless that character is also an evil colonialist and a SinisterMinister.
** He doesn’t have to be white. China has been taking control in multiple parts of Africa recently, and some tribes to invade neighboring tribes for resources or to expand influence. As usual, be careful. {{Worldbuilding}} a fantasy race is much safer here.
** Colonialism often happened out fear of a more dangerous or antagonistic country colonializing first or colonizing the colonialist. Therefore, having your EvilColonialist fighting a more evil political power can add to the overall {{Worldbuilding}}.
** The character need not be there to actually colonize the land, but still be there to exploit the country and natives.
* EvilutionaryBiologist: An EvilCounterpart to TheProfessor or even them as DoctorVonTurncoat, They are sadistic and obsessed with progress and are likely to conduct experiments with human and animal specimens alike, courtesy of the local EvilPoacher and HumanTraffickers. Expect them to capture the Tarzanesque, if this character discovers them, and conduct horrible experiments, with the belief they are either the missing link or next stage in human evolution. They are also potentially another EvilColonialist employed by TheEmpire or part of the BananaRepublic.
** They can even be the WitchDoctor, conducting grotesque experiments because AlchemyIsMagic.
* EvilPrince: A brutal leader killing and torturing for the throne, can be tribal or colonial.
* EvilOverlord: The leader of TheEmpire.
* FakePrince: A chief who has stolen his position from a good chief.
* FallenHero: Many heroes in this genre have evil counterparts, so a story about the turn evil would be more than welcomed.
* FrazettaMan: Basically an EvilCounterpart to the Tarzanesque. The Frazetta Man is a staple of the Jungle Opera. They don’t have to be stupid or AlwaysChaoticEvil and can be individualized, but they are a good alternative to the CannibalTribe.
** They can be subservient to the WitchDoctor or failed creations of the EvilutionaryBiologist.
** Any form of HumanSubspecies is welcomed here, whether Prehistoric, Fantasy or Mutant. They might even be a HenchmanRace created by the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* GeneralRipper: They do not necessarily need to be Imperial German, Nazi or what have you. They do not even need to specifically be human. The setting could be a BananaRepublic with them being one of the local antagonists. Due to the fact that some real-world poachers are military, They might be one themselves.
* HiredGuns: Mercenaries are more common than most people realize in the jungle, and they can make great direct antagonists. They are likely to be only motivated by greed without regard for human life making them perfect threats, usually hired by greater antagonists.
** They may work as [[BountyHunter Bounty Hunters]]. After all, bounty hunters are often OnlyInItForTheMoney. They may hunt other villains and do the right thing for all the wrong reasons.
** They can be hired by illegal operations to kill the conservationist.
** They can be hired by a cultist or corrupt missionary to hunt down TheMissionary.
** They can even be allies on occasion if they are hired to take down a criminal. However, they may betray the heroes to either claim the bounty for themselves, or because cashing in on the heroes' bounty is much more profitable.
** They may overlap with EgomaniacHunter, being a [[PsychoforHire Psycho for hire]] who enjoys [[HuntingtheMostDangerousGame Hunting the Most Dangerous Game]].
* HornyVikings: A lost colony of Norsemen is a classic, even if it does not entirely make senses. Realistically, they would have integrated into the local peoples, so they will likely have combinations of attire, weaponry and even spiritual beliefs.
** Horned Helmets have not been found in Nordic countries, but are forgiven by the RuleOFCool, especially with local materials like Rhino horns.
* HumanTraffickers: They can be very risky, but make excellent antagonists if they catch a hero or a loved one. They also make an excellent supplier of fresh specimens for the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* [[TheSavageIndian Hostile Natives]]: Usually a CannibalTribe often kidnaps, tortures and even eats unsuspecting explorers. Although very risky, evil nations and culture exist, and the fact that they are human means that they have the potential for great good or great evil.. Additionally, depicting all natives as pure and harmonious with nature can be equally risky.
** A manipulative chief can make the tribe something like a small Dystopia or TheDictatorShip. Also, do some research into real evil cultures to extrapolate totalitarian philosophies from.
** Use {{Worldbuilding}} to give them their own detailed culture. Things like their actual ideology, religion, language, clothing, hunting strategies and diet, trade and political relations with other tribes or colonial powers can all make them feel far more grounded.
** Make them distinct. Make sure they of individuals with their own personalities and motivations. Making them collectivist is also welcomed, but only if there is a real reason like cultish manipulation or some kind of mind control. Even then, a couple of good ones are always welcomed.
** Picking up from the last point, make them an actual cult, where the leaders manipulate and abuse the people below them; A ReligionOfEvil with an interesting lore and understandable code can be interesting, especially if they tie into the fantasy gods or forces of the universe. The tribe can even be humane and helpful so the leader can try to manipulate the protagonist into joining them rather than kidnapping and torturing him for no reason. An evil variation of TheMissionary can work very well here.
** Give them political ties and trade including with the EvilColonialist. Some tribes were involved with slave trades historically.
** Give them guns. Several real and hostile tribes did trade for firearms.
** They don’t have to be indigenous either. A LostColony driven mad or Fantasy races are always welcomed.
** A good alternative is a band of rebel soldiers, who have created their own small society.
** Make it a polite culture that just doesn’t take kindly to trespassers, instead of Cannibals.
--> If you think that depicting a cannibal tribe is stereotypical, racist or you think it is unjust to depict anyone as evil enough to kidnap, torture and eat people, don't worry. Most every real cult in history is far far worse than anything you can remotely find in fiction. Do some research into real cults. Possible side effects include: nightmares and severe loss of faith in humanity.
* Illegal loggers and illegal mines work well in this genre, especially if they are threatening a cast member’s village or kidnapping one of the cast for forced labor.
** Consider some alternatives. An illegal archeology dig could be dangerous as well.
* Imperial Germans: If you are working with a World War I setting, kind of a precursor in pulp to ThoseWackyNazis.
* DarkActionGirl: An intiresting subvrsion for the JunglePrincess, but [[LadyLand Tribes of amazon warriors]] are very common in this genre, often as villains.
* LostColony: A classic in this genre, and can be anything from a leftover fragment from the colonial age, an excuse for {{Steampunk}} to even the Knights Templar after losing their way looking for the Holy Land. Not required to be evil, but usually are.
* MegaCorp: They are a giant heartless cooperate entity that doesn't care about the environment, their workers or their customers. Their only goal is power, to own and control everything.
** Making them a techno feudalist corporation or Corporatocracy is more than welcomed.
** Remember they are likely TooBigToFail. Having them DrunkWithPower instead of simply greedy, is a great alternative.
* MightyWhitey: This character can make for an excellent antagonist. An evil version of the Tarzanesque, who believes that they are the King or Queen of the jungle. Proud and arrogant. They still defend the tribes that recognize their authority, but they torture and kill anyone who apposes them. They could also be an EcoTerrorist.
* MonsterOfTheWeek: The jungle is full of dangerous creatures. This is especially the case if the [[EvilutionaryBiologist Evilutionary Biologist's]] experiments escaped, if AllMythsAreTrue, or in a LostWorld in general. These monsters might be magic ordinary, but still very dangerous, animals, might be alien, might be robotic or can even be humans with abnormal abilities.
* NephariousPharaoh: In cases of Ancient Egyptian-based lost cities, villains such as this may appear. Reflecting the real-world history, the pharaoh in question may be man or woman and they may even be an example of TheUsurper.
* NotQuiteHuman: As mentioned before, a fantasy race is a good alternative for a CannibalTribe or other potentially risky tropes where the characters are not acting human either. Classics here include LizardFolk and OurZombiesAreDifferent. Even FishPeople are welcomed here.
** They can also be a general race or faction adding to the overall {{Worldbuilding}}.
* NukeEm: When a villain is so despite for resources or so hellbent on destroying an indigenous population that they are willing to leave the jungle an inhospitable wasteland.
* ObstructiveBureaucrat: Politics are messy, so this guy (from any background) can play a big role in several problems. Typically the most they will get is a slap on the wrist, obviously because they are the senate.
** He might be funding the HumanTraffickers, if the victims are historical enemies of his people. He might be funding your EvilutionaryBiologist.
for a [[GeneticEngineeringIsTheNewNuke Bioweapon]].
** They can also play a large role in letting the right kind of people off the hook in order to further their political agenda, and then unjustly punishing political threats to them.
** He might willingly not provide enough funding to stop certain outlaws. He can also be bribed by wealthy human traffickers, gang leaders, warlords or criminals running big operations.
** He might hire an EgomaniacHunter to [[ThePurge Execute Order 66]]
** Due to the fact that some real-world poachers are corrupt officials, he might be one himself.
** Making them a HighClassCannibal would be a fitting subversion in this genre.
* OurGiantsAreBigger: Having the classic small people based on the pigmies is extremely risky, but going the opposite direction would be a welcomed alternative.
* {{Outlaw}}: There are many different variations, but whoever they are, they are breaking the law and they are willing to do whatever it takes protect their operations, including kidnapping or killing.
** While EvilPoacher is common, the character did not become common until late into the genre. This is because the jungle is filled with different kinds of criminals like organized crime syndicates, pirates, general smugglers, rogue military groups, mercenaries, commercial poachers/thieves for hire, bandits, highwaymen, serial killers, terrorists, corrupt officials etc., with an additional reason being there was little distinction between the Evil Poacher and the EgomaniacHunter. While most outlaws do engage in poaching due to the black market value of things like rare pelts and ivory, but they also deal in other illegal substances like stolen artifacts, weapons, counterfeit money, stolen ores or illegally mined precious metals, organs, drugs, slaves, children etc. If you have an outlaw, allow them to be a more specific kind of criminal. It’s okay to write them engaging in poaching, just make sure they aren’t only a simple poacher. Utilizing TheHighwayman, RuthlessModernPirates, TheAggressiveDrugDealer, the ArmsDealer, GangOfHats, HumanTraffickers and other criminal tropes for an EvilPoacher is a good way to make them more distinct and realistic.
** Although smuggling various things is common for the outlaw, consider some other alternatives. They could be hiding from the law. They might be a cyber criminal working remotely through satellites. They might rob a railroad or terrorize a small village or town. They might try to take private property by force to illegally use its resources. They might kidnap village elders to interrogate them looking for a lost artifact etc. “Allow most of them to have a more complex EvilScheme than capture/smuggle x”
** Remember, having them steal or kill people to protect their operations is one thing, but having them draw their skills for other crimes for hire, independent of their illegal operations, can make them more dangerous.
** They don’t have to be white. Fantasy races can equally work, many criminals in jungle countries are local.
** They don’t have to be criminals of the jungle. They might simply be [[ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin hiding from the law]] for a crime they committed outside the jungle. They could even be a RetiredOutlaw, in which case they are probably less likely to be a villain.
** They could be a dangerous criminal banished from the LostTribe rather than an outsider.
* OutsideGenreFoe: As mentioned before, this genre commonly has NinjaPirateZombieRobot. Just make sure the crossover is organically related to the tone or themes you are going for as an author.
* ThePurge: Genocide is unfortunately very common in the jungle.
** Can be combined with the EgomaniacHunter as some marksmen were hired for genocide historically like the slaughter of the Tasmanian Aborigines.
* PredatorPastiche: A very formidable opponent if you want a science fiction element, especially for PlanetaryRomance.
* PoliticallyIncorrectVillain: Should be avoided. Again, if the audience should hate them because [[DesignatedVillain they disagree with your worldview]], then they need work.
* [[PsychoforHire Psycho for Hire]]: Many villains in this genre are OnlyInItForTheMoney, so they can preform brutal tasks for someone else if they are offered the right price.
* ReligionOfEvil: Can be very interesting as long as there is {{Worldbuilding}} around it. Make it tie into your lore and your fantasy evil gods.
** Many of the most barbaric societies in history were highly advanced, so utilizing a Fallen Empire or a VestigialEmpire could work very well.
* RenegadeSplinterFaction: A group of terrorists, more extreme then their predecessors.
* RuthlessModernPirates: commonly known to the people of the Amazon as River Rats. They likely engage in several crimes of smuggling and trafficking various contraband. They plunder and pillage and don’t give a hoot after all.
** SubmarinePirates, SkyPirates and SalvagePirates are also welcomed.
* {{Sadist}}: This is common for several villains in this genre like the WitchDoctor, the EgomaniacHunter, the EvilColonialist, the EvilutionaryBiologist etc. This trope is often used to emphasize the danger of the villains, as making them ruthless is one thing, but making them enjoy causing harm makes them more dangerous and their danger more exciting.
** Be careful not to use this in AuthorTract. While it is tempting to make the villain enjoy hurting children in a theme about human trafficking or having and to have an evil poacher enjoy hurting animals for a green aesop, it is going to come off as contrived rather than actually making a meaningful point. Instead focus on the hero’s resolve and values as this is a much better alternative for AnAesop.
** Also don’t let this trope get in the way of making the villain entertaining. Humor and charisma are still more than welcomed and they can actually make this trope even more effective if handled right. Expect dark humor in particular.
* SinisterMinister: TheMissionary can also be a good villain as a {{Cult}} leader, or working for or as an EvilColonialist. Equally present in history to the Heroic Counterpart.
* SmallTownRivalry: A tribal community might be threatened by another village they have bad blood with.
* SpacePirates: Could make an appearance in a PlanetaryRomance.
* SpreeKiller: Someone killing everything in a rampage.
** Could also be TheEmpire making a part of the jungle purposefully inhospitable with a {{Superweapon}} to plunder it for raw resources or to irradiate a political threat.
** They can go after other villains too.
* StandardEvilOrganizationSquad: Having a team of villains devoted to a specific task. If you already established multiple villains, this might result from a VillainTeamUp.
* TheSyndicate: A of very organized criminals that are very common in real life. They are likely to be behind many of the other villains and criminals, and they will utilize HiredGuns to take care of threats.
** There can also be a GrayAndGrayMorality version of them, offering bounties on local criminal like other cartels, local poachers, or general outlaws. This doesn’t mean they are good guys though.
* TinTyrant: Possibly a SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology robot, a armored leader of the VestigialEmpire or a CyberneticsEatYourSoul EvilColonialist.
* VestigialEmpire: A lost jungle dwelling superpower, and potentially a AncientAdvancedAcropolis. They are usually evil.
* ThoseWackyNazis: A must for any World War II or Dieselpunk story. They could also be a LostColony in the Amazon Rainforest, as many Nazis fled to South America following the war.
** If the story is set during World War II, expect them to be part of an ArchaeologicalArmsRace.
* TinTyrant: Having an EvilColonialist or an employer of the Evil Colonialist, who is more machine than man, might be interesting.
* ToxicInc: Obviously risky and seen as lazy for a GreenAesop, but a deeper political motive, as a decoy to wipe out some indigenous villages, can be interesting.
* TragicVillain: This is far less risky if you have a controversial antagonist.
** By no means does this mean their crimes have to be justified, and contrasting honest alternatives to dealing with their circumstances, or a theme of redemption is more than welcomed.
** This trope works best for small time criminals, henchmen and nooks rather than the BigBad themself.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Can be from an enviromental crisis of releasing disease and displacing animals or it might involve something more fantastical like accidentally activating an ancient LostSuperweapon, these are very much on the grey side of the spectrum and don't necessarily need to appear in person.
* TheWarlord: Likely a former colonial or indigenous leader who is hellbent on control and genocide, who will forcibly take over local power. They also have no regard for the rainforest and will rule it with a mind of metal to build up their armies and gain more power.
* WitchDoctor: An evil counterpart to the Shaman, this character is often a very manipulative and likely to be the leader of the ReligionOfEvil who cares only about their influence over the tribe rather than their tribesmen. They are likely to engage in activities such as, fulfilling ancient prophecies, a brutal ImperfectRitual or any form of HumanSacrifice. They are also very likely to be an EvilChancellor to the chief.
** As mentioned before, this genre is a subgenre of ScienceFiction, and the theme of science vs superstation was played a lot more straight in this genre. The Witch Doctor usually didn't have any actual abilities in older media and was merely superstitious, being angered or confused by the technology and medicine of MightyWhitey. While you obviously might want to avoid this portrayal, you can still make this character an excellent villain without actual magic, as simply making them an actual cult leader who manipulates and abuses their tribesmen with fear, guilt and pleasure is a welcomed subversion. The dynamics of real cults is often far more horrifying than any curse or monster in fiction.
** Having them actually use science and build machines to give an appearance of supernatural abilities or curses is also a welcomed subversion for them to manipulate their tribe. Making them intelligent in general instead of superstitious is a must as it is not only less risky, but it also makes them far more terrifying. Also making this character [[KungFuWizard good at combat]] is still welcomed.
** In more recent media, they might practice actual dark magic. Depicting them as an EvilSorcerer is also more than welcomed welcomed. Just make sure they are still manipulative and intelligent. Abilities and practices include practice TheDarkArts, AllianceWithAnAbomination, {{Necromancy}}, MindControl, and Divination. Just be sure to [[{{Worldbuilding}} Worldbuild]] a real system of evil spirits or use an [[EldritchAbomination Eldritch Abominations]] rather than relying on HollywoodVoodoo.
** WeCanRuleTogether, where this character tries to convert enimies instead of killing them, is an excellent subversion.
** They don't have to be tribal. Having them in the government forming a BananaRepublic, working with {{Outlaw}}s and smugglers to their own ends, secretly operating as an EvilSorcerer for their own ends is also welcomed. They also don’t have to be indigenous. Having the colonial EvilOverlord of TheEmpire be a wicked sorcerer or an EvilutionaryBiologist who is messing around with dangerous forces of the jungle beyond their comprehention are both more than welcomed.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: The evil counterpart to LeResidence.
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Plant and Animal Coordinator]]
The jungle is by its nature filled with countless species of animals and plants. Because these plants and animals can usually be allies, antagonists or even the McGuffin, it seemed like they deserved their own folder. Weather the story leans more towards InHarmonyWithNature or NatureIsNotNice is a decision only the author can make.
* Animals in general of course.
** Subvert HerbivoresAreFriendly. Many authors tend to depict all herbivores as peaceful and all carnivores as dangerous man eating predators and depict killing a herbivore in self defense as evil, while fighting a carnivorous animal is perfectly fine, it can be unrealistic or risky if poorly researched. Many herbivores can be more dangerous than many predators because they are very territorial and powerful. On the other hand just because an animal is carnivorous, that doesn’t mean they are automatically going to kill humans as most have a very specific diet. Many animals only attack humans in self defense as well. As always, killing an animal as a last resort is always less risky. In general, please do your own research.
** Don’t limit them to gorillas, monkeys and big cats. The Amazon alone already has nightmares like stingrays, sharks, electric eels, alligators, scorpions. As well as the bullet ant and executioner wasp, which both deliver the most painful stings known to man. There is a lot of variety and hazards, so have fun with these.
** AlienAnimals: Are more than welcomed, especially on earth ironically. Having an animal look just like an earth equivalent is okay, but admittedly unrealistic in space, but finding something that looks normal and harmless, but turns out to be dangerous and unnatural in the Amazon or Congo could be very fun. They might have ties to the magic of the setting or a fictitious disease.
* ActionPet: A must for any TarzanBoy or Jungle Princess. Especially because raising, taming and training a dangerous animal to fight at your side is demanded by the RuleOfCool, and is much better than FriendToAllLiving, where nothing will attack you your character.
* AllAnimalsAreDomesticated: Avoid this. Allow your characters to actually be in danger unless they can befriend an animal over time.
* AnimalAssassin: Having a pet to kill for you.
* AnimalisticAbomination: At least somewhat resembles regular jungle fauna, but is bizarre, otherworldly, and unnatural. Perfect for the alien ecosystems of a LostWorld or jungle planet.
* AntAssault: A common danger in this genre.
* AttackAnimal: The pet of the BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* BigCreepyCrawlies: big bugs for mounts and monsters.
** The Giant CreepyCentipedes is a common RealLife example.
* BizarreAlienBiology: works well for any alien ecosystem.
* BotanicalAbomination: At least somewhat resembles regular jungle flora, but is bizarre, otherworldly, and unnatural. Perfect for the alien ecosystems of a LostWorld or jungle planet.
* ClockRoaches: If a time travelling [[TheProfessor Professor]] isn't careful, he might run into these monsters.
* ClockworkCreature: Obviously in a {{Steampunk}} story you would want cool automata, but this is theoretically another piece of BambooTechnology; a robot running on warden pulleys and rope.
* DoAnythingRobot is a perfect companion for ActionSurvivor or EvilColonialist in a [[Steampunk steam]] or DieselPunk setting or even in a normal setting for the EvilutionaryBiologist or TheProfessor.
** A NatureLovingRobot is always welcome in this genre.
* FantasticFlora: A must for any LostWorld or jungle planet.
* GeneticAbomination: Likely a product of the EvilutionaryBiologist
* GiantSquid: This and other tentacled monsters are classic.
** Keep in mind underrated aspects of biology here. Octopuses for example have blue copper based blood.
* {{Golem}}: Either animated by the WitchDoctor or Shaman, or an InNameOnly [[SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology Ancient Robot]] mistaken for magic.
* GreenGators: A classic. Sometimes also a villains pets or means of execution.
* HorseOfADifferentColor: Mounts of any kind weather alien, prehistoric, giant or fantastic are more than welcomed.
** Elasmotherium, a unicorn like creature related to the rhinoceros could look cool.
* HypnoticCreature: Common for snakes, but can be intiresting for other animals like bugs.
** They can simply make your character hallucinate rather than hypnotize them.
** Making it a property of venom rather than HypnoticEyes or song is a more realistic variation.
* InsectoidAliens: Can be interesting natives or animals.
* KidnappingBirdOfPrey: Even birds will try to kidnap you in this genre.
* {{Kaiju}}: Monsters are already common, but you can have a really big one.
* KillerSpaceMonkey: In the case of a SingleBiomePlanet, and can be in any form.
* KingKongCopy: A big gorilla is common in this genre.
* LightingBug: Fireflies make great ambience.
* LivingDinosaurs: as mentioned before. You can even use ArtisticLicenseBiology to give them interesting abilities or make it so the DinosaursAreDragons.
** This is complicated as our knowledge of dinosaurs historically is always changing and might very depending on the author’s worldview. Doing your own research is recommended as always, but it’s also okay to have ArtisticLicenseBiology for the RuleOFCool. Just make sure to include {{Worldbuilding}} around them, like what do they eat, how do they act, are they territorial, how do they communicate etc.
** DomesticatedDinosaurs: are also welcomed for an AttackAnimal or cool mount. Just please go with the more realistic and appropriate How To Train Your Dragon approach where you’re rider actually befriends the animal rather than the questionable (and highly illegal) Methods of Avatar.
* [[ManEatingPlant ManEatingPlants]] are another staple of this genre. You can even make them sentient.
** BotanicalAbomination is a good alternative.
* ManiacMonkeys: If you want an animal antagonist, you can't go wrong with a chimpanzee. While most people would think of the gorilla, and have done so for years, it is actually the chimpanzee that is the dangerous one.
** In an AnimalIsTheNewMan scenario, the chimpanzees could exhibit many of the characteristics shown by the genre's human villains.
* MechanicalAnimals: Surprisingly common in this genre. Big ones make great weapons of the villains.
* MosquitoMiscreants: Very annoying or dangerous Mosquitoes. This is why you should dress modestly in the jungle.
* MixAndMatchCritters: Having hybrids can be interesting in a LostWorld. It’s not entirely implausible in RealLife either, as this was essentially the discovery of the Platypus.
* NatureLovingRobot: Possibly a piece of SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, a creation of the professor or a personal RobotSoldier of the EcoTerrorist.
* NobleWolf: A classic for stories set in Asia. Even in South America and Africa there are wolf like creatures.
* NotSoExtinct: A good option for using extinct animals. Scientist have often found living fossils of various kinds in the wild.
* OurWerebeastsAreDifferent: Creatures such as werehyenas can be formidable antagonists, thus bringing the supernatural into the mix. Also, [[PantheraAwesome Wear Big Cat.]]
* OurCryptidsAreMoreMysterious: Of course some dangerous prehistoric or unknown animals can be excellent threats. Classics include dinosaurs, man eating plants, zombies. You can even try something in the snowy mountains like a yeti if you are feeling particularly adventurous.
** Do some research into other aspects of prehistoric animals and Cryptozoology. You could have a megalodon, with sharks already in the Amazon River. Also the Elasmotherium, a cousin to the rhino, is the perfect way to incorporate unicorns. Just remember these are definitely more likely to trample or stab you than have magic, but that just makes them cooler.
* OurHydrasAreDifferent: a good monster to guard temples.
* PantheraAwesome: Could be an ally, enemy or even sometimes a mount.
* ParasitesAreEvil: There are several parasitic creatures in the jungle in RealLife, but they are somewhat underrated in this genre.
* Planimal: This might be interesting as a monster or regular wildlife.
* PiranhaProblem: Obviously in the Amazon, but a classic.
* ProudPeacock: A very pretty and arrogant bird.
* PsychoElectricEel: These actually live in the Amazon river.
* PrehistoricMonster: A common antagonist, but prehistoric creatures and plants are also very common here.
* RaisedByWolves: Normally the origin of the Tarzanesque, if they aren’t RaisedByNatives.
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: This is a must for the jungle.
* RobotSoldier: A new toy after the EvilColonialist realized his men couldn't hit the broad side of a barn. Might be a very terrifying threat though if it is evil.
* RocBirds: Big predatory birds.
* ScaryScorpions; even if they are small, their stings can be painful or even deadly. Common in most every jungle.
* ScaryStingingSwarm: There are a lot of stinging insects in the jungle.
* SnakesAreSinister: Snakes are usually big and have a DeadlyHug. They also sometimes have HypnoticEyes.
** Consider giving them hypnotic or hallucinogenic venom.
** The GreatSerpent could be an interesting monster.
** Making them actually sinister is common but not required.
* SpidersAreScary: Spiders are a common danger in all jungles.
* SinisterStingrays: Another Amazon river monster.
* StarfishAliens: Perfect for an alien ecosystem.
* ThreateningShark: Bull sharks live in the Amazon.
* [[HedgeOfThorns Thorny Plants]], thorn trees, tree cacti, wait a minute (thorny) vines, stickers and other similar hazards are considerably criminally underrated in this genre.
** There are also toxic plants that burn to the touch that are common in the jungle.
* TalkingAnimal: This is very different from the FriendToAllLivingThings, as it gives the animals their own agency. The problem is that this can often come off as too silly or cartoony. If the animals are given their own worldbuilt cultures and are made into good characters with good chemistry, like in ''Literature/TheJungleBook'', then this trope is more than welcome.
** Try to make the animals talk with the mind of the actual animal. ''Disney's Up'' understood that a dog will be obsessed with sent, squirrls and praising their master.
** A common variation from the RuleOFCool is when the Tarzanesque can understand the characters perfectly by tones and body language. (See SpeaksFluentAnimal in the Stunt Department)
** The prfessor making machines that allow for this is more than welcomed.
** Maybe the trope is played straight as a property of the LostWorld, similar to Narnia.
* VileVulture: Likely to hover over a LockedUpAndLeftBehind victim dying ExposedToTheElements
* WarElephants: A cool option at least the villains.
* WickedWasps: A must for the jungle.
* ZebrasAreJustStripedHorses: This is also more than welcome, but not entirely plausible.
** Ostriches are not only a good mount, but also the second fastest land animal.
** Quaggas used to be extinct but are theoretically an easier mount than a zebra.
** Giant birds are also a great option when they aren’t kidnapping you.
** BigCreepyCrawlies also can make an in interesting mount.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Stunt Department]]
The JungleOpera genre is full of daring feats,, acrobatics and dangerous stunts already, but a little bit of deconstruction or martial arts choreography would be a welcomed addition. Unfortunately, many aspects of these stunts have been used for AuthorAppeal or can be risky. It’s important to remember as a writer or director, that what is left unsaid or proper deconstruction can really intensify the danger of some of these stunts without appearing too problematic. Weather a stunt is utilized is ultimately up to the individual author and writer.
* AnimalAura: Great for a Shaman or even a Tarzanesque or BadassNative.
* AnimalTalk is common in this genre.
** Having characters understand animals or even humans though body language is always more than welcomed.
* AnimalThemedFightingStyle: Is required for the Tarzanesque. It makes a lot of sense in this setting o in general. For sure use some form of indigenous martial arts, and make it cool.
* AntiRegeneration: A good idea if you have NotQuiteHuman fantasy races with a HealingFactor. The villain might also refuse to regenerate [[SpitefuSuicide so the hero can’t save them.]]
* UsefulNotes/{{Archery}}: a common hunting and combat practice of the BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* AlwaysKnowAPilot: Common for a lot of characters in this genre, especially AdventurerArchaologist if they aren’t a pilot already.
* AllianceWithAnAbomination: The WitchDoctor is most likely to do this, but the EvilOverlord, EvilutionaryBiologist might try it as well. Even TheProfessor might have made this mistake.
* AwesomeByAnalysis: A must for any good JunglePrincess or TarzanBoy. Having them use their intellect, combined with their jungle hero standard issue hightened senses like enhanced smell, touch, hearing and sight are demanded by the RuleOfCool.
* [[PrefersGoingBarefoot Barefoot Running]] is almost considered an unwritten rule for any good TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess.
** It’s also an unwritten rule to use HandyFeet if you go this direction.
** For any frequent barefooter like the Tarzanesque, the sense of touch would actually become more acute due to the nerves being used constantly. So it pairs very nicely with AwesomeByAnalysis.
** Remember to use AgonyOfTheFeet if there is a change in lifestyle, as the jungle floor certainly has hazards like thorns, rocks, roots and insects and any barefoot runner can tell you that it takes months in a safe environment building up strength and thick skin before one can go barefoot consistently; possibly a year or more to endure such a hostile environment like a jungle properly.
** CombatStilettos: Should be Averted for a JunglePrincess dressing up for western society, as she is definitely spent her whole life as wearing very light footwear if not a full on barefooter. Therefore she would have trouble walking, much less running and fighting in high heels.
* BattleCry: The classic Tarzan yell has really lost its cool factor after the original novels, where it was a victory cry of a bull ape, but a more than welcomed alternative is to play this trope straight. Give your characters, especially the Tarzanesque and BadassNative an actual battle cry.
** Consider other subversions too. A JunglePrincess squealing with delight during a VineSwing for example.
* BattleInTheRain: It’s called the rainforest for a reason.
* BilingualBonus: A must due to the different languages and cultures.
* BoundAndGagged; Due to the theme of hunting fitting the aesthetic, the jungle is an excellent place to get captured or kidnapped, so this trope is pretty standard to happen to any Tarzanesque, AdventureArchaeologist or even TheMissionary.
** Due to the reality of human trafficking this trope can be very risky, so it’s best to be careful how scenes are framed in visual mediums and keep general descriptions brief.
** This is played pretty straight when a character is captured by the {{Outlaw}}.
** For a hostile tribe, it’s common for them to bind and publicly display a protagonist to interrogate them, [[StockPunishment for public humiliation or torture]] or simply for HollywoodNatives who have ComeToGawk.
** Another favorite in this genre is the TribalCarry.
** One interesting approach is to acknowledge real effects of being restrained. Side effects include, Constipation, Circulatory problems, Muscle Atrophy, Urinary Tract Infections, immobilized without bonds from being tied for so long and Depression.
** Consider alternatives. An EvilutionaryBiologist might use a CryoPrison Some RealLife cannibals broke limbs instead of bonding them.
** Please no AuthorAppeal. HumanTrafficking makes this trope risky enough.
* BottomlessBladder; (Subverted) Despite the name, this refers to the lack of bodily necessities in general that most fictional characters experience, such as no need for food, water, and sleep. Due to themes of survival in this genre, it’s basically an unwritten rule is that this should be subverted in this genre, as staying hydrated, finding food, finding a place to sleep without getting eaten and the like, are all interesting to explore in this genre.
** The extent to which a character, especially a Tarzanesque, hunts depends on both the personal beliefs of the author and the character. A character [[RaisedByWolves raised by animals]] might refuse to kill entirely and live off of plants seeing animals as equal to them, some might make exception for KillingInSelfDefense, others might hunt only out of necessity, others, especially a Tarzanesque like the animals around them, might hunt only for food, and others will hunt for money, usually morally grey and villainous characters. If your character lives off of plants, real world survival tips like rubbing a plant against the skin and waiting for an itch or rash to test for poison, or identifying different flora might be interesting.
** Quick survival tips include, drink long and deep like Kipling said; possible ways to get clean water are from streams, collecting rain or collecting dew, shelters should be built on elicited ground, campfire generally keeps predators like big cats away or even dangerous insects depending on fuel, This list goes on and is far too deep to cover here, so independent research is advised.
** Even the more literal subversion, the PottyEmergency, has been PlayedForLaughs in this genre; usually with a character who doesn’t understand survival skills yet.
* BreakingTheBonds: Is common, due to how common bonds are in this genre. Make sure there is a good amount of time between a character getting captured and escaping though. If the character is a PlayAlongPrisoner, they need to give the impression that they really are helpless, and if the character is BadassInDistress, they should actually be helpless for a while, so having them think their way out is much more exciting than them overpowering their bonds through brute force.
** You might opt for a ConvenientlyPlacedSharpThing instead.
** PetGetsTheKeys, is a welcomed alternative if your character has an ActionPet.
* BringHimToMe: A villain capturing the hero to bring them to their hideout, often as a plot device.
* [[BambooTechnology Bushcraft]]: Any good TarzanBoy, JunglePrincess or ActionSurvivor must be able to craft whatever tool they need by hand.
** Don’t be afraid of BambooTechnology. People have built some pretty insane things by hand in RealLife, much more so in fiction.
* TheCavalry: When the heroes friends, animal or human arrive at the last minute.
* ChainedToARock: This is everywhere in this genre. As mentioned before, getting captured is inevitable in the jungle so the BadassInDistress being fed to a hostile animal, monster, volcano or some other threat is very common. The purpose depends on who what villain is doing it to a captive.
** The EgomaniacHunter often uses this to turn people into bait, usually to lure out a rare animal or the local Tarzanesque.
** This is a common method of execution or HumanSacrifice for hostile tribes or any VestigialEmpire.
** It can also be use for BreadAndCircuses of a Corrupt Tribe or [[VestigialEmpire Lost Empire.]]
** It doesn’t always involve a dangerous animal attaching the protagonist. Villains often opt to let their captives [[ExposedToTheElements bake out under the hot equatorial sun]] This might even be a DeathTrap, in which case the hero will escape shortly after the villain Leaves.
* ChasedByAngryNatives: Why they are angry is totally up to the author, but avoiding risky stereotypes is strongly advised.
* CombatParkour: A must for any Tarzanesque or BadassNative. Might involve ArtisticLicensePhysics.
* CaughtInASnare and the InescapableNet is a common trap for unsuspecting adventurers.
* ColdBloodedTorture (and its many variations): Common by villains for various reasons. An {{Outlaw}} might interrogate the Tarzanesque for the location of something valuable like the AncientArtifact, a lost treasure or a rare animal. Tribal cults might use this on outsiders to convert them, to make the Tarzanesque kneel to a manipulative WitchDoctor cult leader or to punish those who speak out against him. Agents of TheEmpire like EvilColonialist and BananaRepublic have also been known to utilize this trope.
** This is very risky, but remember to tell not show here. This is especially effective as what is left unsaid or offscreen can be far more terrifying and interesting than anything shown directly.
** For mentioning things rather than showing them, authors commonly like to mention that this process involves as little physical harm to the victim as possible, allowing the villains to keep the victim alive completely or at least to kill them far slower. Authors will also sometimes mention that this can last for days or even weeks. These techniques are used to generate sympathy for the victim, however putting a time limit on how long it will be before the victim dies is a welcomed alternative to raise the stakes.
** Don't be afraid to get creative with this even if you leave things off scream. CreepyCrawlyTorture is fitting and terrifying for this genre. A character might eventually be [[AndIMustSCream And I Must Screamed.]] You WitchDoctor or EvilColonilaist might interrogate someone with an EldritchAbomonation to make them go insane. One might be tied to a fast growing tree in a way that slowly pulls them apart. Someone might be tied up under the hot sun to die slowly ExposedToTheElements. A WitchDoctor or similar character can use magic to trap their victim in a nightmare, slowing down their perception of time with the convenience of them being unconscious rather than bound. This can also be interesting since the torture continues after the rescue if the victim can't be awakened. Then there are all of the [[ATorturedIndex other tropes of psychological ways to torment characters]]. Again, there is more said when things are left unsaid, but don't let that stifle your creativity.
** Authors also have time to allow characters to heal after an escape. You can [[BigDamnReunion use hugs liberally]] to make this very wholesome.
** A villain can use this to lure out the Tarzanesque. Using their friends as bait as they are InterrogatedForNothing.
* ClothingDamage is very likely either early on in the story or for an EleventhHourCostumeChange..
* CryoPrison: The EvilutionaryBiologist probably uses this to preserve or even torture specimens. Also a common way for preserving the FrazettaMan from millennia or even eons in the past.
* TheDarkArts: The WitchDoctor obviously might dabble in this if they aren't merely manipulative, though no less terrifying.
* DeadlyHug: Primarily from, but not limited to, large snakes.
* DodgeTheBullet: Usually the Tarzanesque or BadassNative can do this because of the RuleOfCool.
* DualWielding: A possible fighting style that looks cool.
* DuelToTheDeath: Either between knives: and spears Tarzanesque vs. an evil BadassNative, Guns: {{Ranger}} vs. {{Outlaw}} or even [[WizardDuel Magic]]: Shaman vs. WitchDoctor.
* DragonRider: If you have DomesticatedDinosaurs or DinosaursAreDragons, this trope is more than welcomed, but please keep it a realistic and ethical relationship with an ActionPet [[HorseOfADifferentColor Mount]] Think How To Train Your Dragon, not James Cameron's Avatar.
* DramaticWind: RuleOFCool says use it liberally. Deconstructing it and adding the sound of wind in the trees to your NoisyNature is welcomed.
* [[EscapeArtist Escapology]]:You will want a little bit of this for at least your TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess. Most likely acquired through experience rather than official training.
* EleventhHourCostumeChange: When the Tarzanesque needs mobility for the battle in the third act.
* ElementalPowers can work well here, especially GreenThumb or {{Animorphism}}.
* EscapedAnimalRampage: A great plot device. Stampedes are also pretty dangerous.
* ExposedToTheElements: A general version of being exposed to the sunlight and insects is a common method of torturing and killing in this genre, but the cold aspect of this trope also applies. As mentioned before, the temperature of the jungle itself drops at night, more drastically the higher the elevation. Additionally, being from such a hot climate makes a Tarzanesque or Native character more vulnerable, as what we would consider room temperature would be very cold for them. Additionally, rain and streams would drop their temperature much more quickly.
* [[ScarilyCompetentTracker Extreme Tracking Skills]] for the [[GreatWhiteHunter Great White]] or EgomaniacHunter, but especially a must for any BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* FakedKidnapping: An interesting subversion in this genre, likely used to lure out or capture the Tarzanesque.
* FantasticSlurs: Might be really fun to play with. Even OhMyGods makes sense for the BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* GladiatorGames: Having a fight to the death is a common form of BreadAndCircuses by a Hostile Tribe, VestigialEmpirer or even the EgomaniacHunter engaging in [[HumanTraffickers human trafficking]], but and it’s common for one’s opponent to be an regular innocent person. Sometimes in this genre, the two fighters will even [[FightingYourFriend know each other as friends from work.]]
* GladiatorRevolt: This is a possibility if your characters end up in the BreadAndCircuses of a VestigialEmpire.
* GunTwirling: a must for any good {{Outlaw}}, [[HiredGuns Hired Gun]] or a {{Ranger}} with a Big Iron on his hip.
* HeroesFightBarehanded: empty hand martial arts are more than welcomed.
* HiddenSuplies: If a Tarzanesque knows that particular part of the jungle well enough, having them hid weapons, tools and armor to use later could be cool.
* HollywoodVoodoo: Obviously for the WitchDoctor, but you might want to Avert this, as Worldbuilding a unique magic system with dangerous effects and monovalent entities is always more interesting and less risky.
* HappilyMarried: This is a much better alternative to the classic mates, as tribal communities not only have sexual taboos, but also marriage traditions like any other culture. Exploring these adds to their {{Worldbuilding}}.
* HarbingerOfAsskicking: There are many cool ways to set up a fight scene.
* HostileWeather: The jungle is known for this, especially during monsoon season.
* [[BigDamnReunion Hugs]]: For themes of loyalty friendship and family and a nice contrast to NatureIsNotNice.
* KidnappedByTheCall: While kidnapping is everywhere in the jungle itself, it might be used to bring the protagonist there.
* KidnappedForExperimentation: A favorite of the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* LanguageBarrier: This is important to take into account in this genre. Additionally, showing characters overcome this through observation is always interesting.
* LeParkour: Use it liberally as dictated by the RuleOfCool, but a more forest based version. Of course this include VineSwing and the previously mentioned CombatParkour. Also note that in the original Tarzan novels, the Lord of the Jungle was swinging from branch to branch rather than vine swinging. Might involve ArtisticLicensePhysics.
* LockedUpAndLeftBehind; A common means for disposing of a character leaving them BoundAndGagged to the mercy of the HungryJungle.
* LostLanguage: Commonly found written in the runes of the TempleOfDoom or RuinsForRuinsSake, or even spoken by the LostTribe.
** PrimordialTongue is a possible find in a LostTribe closely related to AncientAdvanceHumans, if not the ancient advanced humans themselves.
* HulkSpeak: is very risky. If the natives speak a language from RealLife, it should be translated completely, use subtitles, or use an authentic accent when speaking to non-native speakers. Accents involve much more than skipping pronouns and articles.
** This trope can be forgiven if utilized for {{Talking Animal}}s.
** A good subversion is to create your own fantasy language, like [[Franchise/TheLordOfTheRings Elvish]] or [[Franchise/StarTrek Klingon]].
** Another possibility is an English dialect, which is now a whole independent language, left over from the colonial age. Think Hawaiian Pigeon.
* HumanSacrifice: As well as VirginSacrifice, AppeaseTheVolcanoGod and every other subtrope are all common in this genre.
* InstantSedation because people get kidnapped so often, getting knocked out is also common. This is also a more welcome approach for a hunting character.
** They don’t have to knock people out. Temporarily paralyzing a victim would also be interesting.
** Try deconstructing this trope. The side effects of being knocked out can be pretty intense, and interesting to explore. As always, independent research is advised.
* KnifeFight: A must for any Tarzanesque.
* KnowTheRopes: Also a must for a Tarzanesque.
* KiteRiding: If you are using a lot of Bamboo Technology, a personal glider could be cool.
* KungFuWizatrd: Making your Shaman or WitchDoctor good at combat is more than welcomed.
* MacGyvering: A good choice for TheProfessor.
* MartialArtsAndCrafts: This is more than welcomed. Ranchers might use farming based martial arts for example.
* MeditatingUnderAWaterfall: or praying in the case of TheMissionary.
* MidairRepair: An AcePilot will probably attempt this.
* MindOverMatter: A good option for the Shaman, especially if the SpacePlane gets stuck somewhere.
* MindControl: The WitchDoctor might have some ability to do this.
* Necromancy: Another power the WitchDoctor might have.
* NeverLearnedToRead: This is common among members of the LostTribe, and possibly the BadassNative, but not limited to them.
** Just remember that literacy doesn't corollate to intelligence. If a character can't read, they should have other forms of intelligence like being very ingenuitive or AwesomeByAnalysis are excellent.
** Averting this with by {{Worldbuilding}} a complex tribal writing system with unique characters and phonetics, is more than welcomed.
* OldSchoolDogfight: If you have more than one CoolPlane, expect this to come up.
* ParachuteInATree: If an adventurer exits a flight early, they will probably end up like this.
* PistolWhipping: A form of InstantSedation likely used by villains when capturing a protagonist.
* PowerGlows like InstantRunes, VolcanicVeins, GlowingEyes and BattleAura are more than welcomed for the Shaman.
** They might even have PowerFloats.
* SaveTheVillain: Demonstrates the heroes' moral compass and can make a controversial villain far less risky by demonstrating their humanity.
** Just make sure the hero didn't kill outside of self defense or protecting others earlier in the plot, otherwise this comes off as out of character.
* SendInTheSearchTeam: NatureIsNotNice, so this is a really good idea for a stunt.
* SkyHiest: An adventurous outlaw will proably attempt this.
* SignatureMove: A cool way to make characters more unique is to give them their own fighting styles and preferred moves.
* SlaveLiberation: If you have human traffickers or a revolution plot, this will probably work well.
* SolveTheSoupCans: A must for any TempleOfDoom or AncientTomb.
* SpeaksFluentAnimal: A classic among Tarzanesque characters. RuleOfCool dictates that understanding an animal through body language and tone is best. Not only does this play into your Tarzanesque AwesomeByAnalysis, but it's much more realistic as many pet owners gain a similar skill through experience.
** This can be accelerated, if your character is scientifically minded, studying the mannerisms of his or her companions, like a stranded zoologist or something.
** TalkingAnimal is also common, but be careful not to make it too cartoony.
* SpectacularSpinning: This is welcomed by the RuleOfCool for fighting, traveling or in general making cool stunts. Just be careful not to overdo it.
** Yes, you can let the {{Ranger}} use a RoundhouseKick.
* SpitefulSuicide: Heroes killing a villain can be complicated, especially if they are part of a political Aesop, but sometimes the villain kills themself to win against a hero trying to SaveTheVillain.
* StarfishLanguage: Other languages are inevitable, but playing around with how weird they can get is welcomed.
* SuperSenses: This is a standard among the Tarzanesque. It plays into their AwesomeByAnalysis and is also a JustifiedTrope in several ways. Constant different smells will make their sense of smell more acute to detect danger, the various textures and shapes of the jungle floor would make their sense of touch more acute to avoid hazardous or unstable terrain, and their sense of hearing would become more acute to detect danger. As the old saying goes, “If you don’t use it, you loose it”, which applies to senses in RealLife.
** Keep in mind that this is a little bit of a curse rather than a blessing. Acute hearing means that loud or sudden sounds would be more uncomfortable, acute touch could make you more sensitive to temperature changes, and we can all guess the problems that come with acute smell. Exploring these negative side effects can be very interesting.
* SuperStrength: This is a classic ability among the Tarzanesque, but it’s best downplayed to peak human strength, since the Tarzanesque character often has to rely on their brain more than their bran, and giving these characters no actual supernatural abilities is much more exciting when danger strikes.
** This is especially true of the JunglePrincess. Giving her less brute force is not a weakness, but an obstacle to overcome through her mind and strategy, making her more interesting.
* SwordFight: This can play out in different ways. In an earlier colonial setting, you might get classic fencing from pirates or the evil colonialist. In an indiginous culture, this can involve actual swords like the Khmer Dha or Nigerian Ida. Even machetes have a blade on blade marital art, and of course the LaserBlade is a go to for more advanced technology.
** Remember to avoid {{Flynning}} in choreography. Of course you want it to look cool, but if the element of danger is lost in the process, it will probably have the opposite effect. Flourishes, WeaponTwirling and a SpinAttack are all still welcome, but when they are justified and make sense in real swordplay.
** ParryingBullets looks cool, so it might be forgivable, but use it sparingly.
** Do your own research and get inspiration from RealLife. {{Kenjutsu}} is one option for inspiration.
* TraintopBattle: A must if there are trains.
* TribalCarry: Commonly used by a LostTribe to transport prisoners, but there are variations to it.
** Consider alternatives, like marching the character bound at spear or gun point, forcing them to ride a mount, canoe or wooden cart back to the village, carrying the captive in general without tying them to a pole, carried in a large wooden frame over land or between canoes instead of tied to a pole, having them DraggedByTheCollor and even having a character’s arms [[CrucifiedHeroShot outstretched and tied to a wooden yoke or beam]] but letting them still walk so the character can be paraded through a village in front of their enemies (like in Tarzan’s Fight For Life), all are more than welcomed alternatives.
** They might opt for ShippedInShackles, either by trade or metallurgy. Many African tribes for example, were actually the first humans to use iron, so this makes sense.
** Having a group of EgomaniacHunters use the TribalCary instead is also welcomed.
* UnwillingSuspension: Because of the RuleOFCool, having the wrists or the entire body suspended is very common for a HumanSSacrifice, ChainedToARock, for displaying a character for [[StockPunishment Public Humiliation]], or even just keeping a character BoundAndGagged,
** This is often used to lower characters into lava, acid or piranha infested waters.
** Usually asphyxiation or other problems this trop presents don’t apply, but subverting or justifying this trope is more than welcome.
** One possibility is actual crucifixion, as a method of execution. It can also be implemented by the evil colonialists to execute people for treason.
* VineSwing: This and swinging from branches in general is a common way for the Tarzanesque to get around the jungle quickly.
** Try [[SpectacularSpinning spicing it up with some flips]]
** Alternatives are always welcome. Indiana Jones used his whip for example.
** If you play this trope straight, think more Spider-Man stunts than Tarzan ones.
** Expect ArtisticLicensePhysics, which is more than welcomed.
* WallCrawl: Running across a wall is part of parkour.
* WaterfallShower: Cleaning oneself under a waterfall.
* WeCanRuleTogeather: This is a more than welcomed subversion for the WitchDoctor. Instead of kidnapping and torturing a character like the Tarzanesque, they might offer them a place at their side subtly with a promise of power to help those they care about and LetMeTellYouAStory.
* WeaponTwirling: A character fidgeting with their weapons in a cool looking way.
* WithMyHandsTied: Fighting with hands restrained must for a Tarzanesque BadassInDistress and can be cool for the ActionSurvivor.
* ZombifyTheLiving: Another evil scheme or ability of the WitchDoctor.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Director's Chair]]
* AfricanChant: (Or something similar) is great for an epic soundtrack, but can also be sung in tribal traditions.
* BackgroundMusic: It's important to take the score seriously and use meaningful motifs and themes in an auditory medium. This is also one of the first things you will want to focus on when trying to make your work distinct, as music is a powerful part of storytelling that can connect with the audience in a much more meaningful and emotionally rich way. While JungleJazz is common, you will want to pick instruments and styles that focus less on fitting the setting and more on properly conveying emotions like isolation, terror, grand scale and the like.
** You can see the significance of music in other genres compared to this genre. If one were to mention a tight knit earthy community, you probably wouldn’t think of the lost tribe, but [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL_3mlOPnGI&pp=ygUVY29uY2VybmluZyBob2JpdHMgb3N0 The Shire]] might give you the warm and fuzzies. If one were to mention oppression, tyranny, taking land by force, your mind might go to [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7HF4JG1pOg&pp=ygUSaW1wZXJpYWwgbWFyY2ggb3N0 this march]] instead of The British Empire, the Spanish Empire or perhaps even the Nazis, despite all of their atrocities. No one remembers even the name of the Shaman that raised Sheena, but you probably know [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9C8J-jhMtRA&pp=ygULeW9kYXMgdGhlbWU%3D this mentor]]. You probably don’t know any of the countless witch doctors and cultists Tarzan has battled, but you if someone mentioned manipulation, dark magic, without mercy, you might think of [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvMtMfIr-sU&pp=ygUVcGFscGF0aW5lJ3MgdGhlbWUgb3N0 this instead.]] While Professor Porter was much more enjoyable in the Disney adaptation, he’s probably not who you would think of if one were to mention [[https://youtu.be/komb7TaF-6o?si=chXNe3ckl-YIrPjo quick witted adventuring scientist.]] This is because of how these tracks are used as themes. They connect with the audience in a very unique way through repetition and tone.
* [[SceneryPorn Detailed Beautiful Scenery]]: Tropical rainforests are some of the most beautiful locations on earth. Utilize romantic and descriptive imagery.
** Utilize AwesomeByAnalysis as a means of immersion in the beautiful setting.
* BulletTime: A possible way to invoke the RuleOfCool in a fight scene. Although matrix parodies got old very quickly by the late 90s, to this day next to no one has used this in this genre.
* ISpeakFluentAnimal: Although this was already mentioned in the Stunt Department, there is also an out of universe aspect that applies. If your Tarzanesque can understand animals, than those animals should be allowed to be expressive enough so that the audience can understand them completely too without subtitles or voice over.
** WesternAnimation/{{SpiritStallionOfTheCimarron}} did this so well, the human voiceover is often view as a flaw that takes away from the expressive animals.
* JungleDrums: can often be heard in the background.
* JungleJazz: This can work in the background of certain places like the LocalHangout.
** Jazz in general should be present in a DieselPunk story.
* FolkMusic is actually a deeply complex and culturally rooted thing, It's also an often neglected, but very important factor in {{Worldbuilding}}, which is why Kipling had so many songs to flesh out his cultures in the Jungle Book. This trope is a must for any LostTribe or even for their descendants in a local small town. Usually these are used to for conveying history, legends or culturally significant stories. They also might be about the hope and dreams or religious beliefs of a culture.
** JobSong: This is great for fleshing out the employees of EvilColonialist, the lives of slaves or even the life of a VenturousSmuggler or {{Pirate}} group. People often used music historically correlating to their professions, such as the sea shanty.
** It can also be used to flesh out a character. The VenturousSmuggler might be a Music lover like Peter Quill for example or TheMissionary might have a favorite hymn.
** Even TheMusical can work well in this genre, but it's a complicated and very hit or miss, so if the director doesn't take it seriously or doesn't work in music seamlessly, it's going to be a miss. See ''WesternAnimation/{{TheLionKing1994}}'' for an example of singing animals done well, for an example of singing jungle dwelling humans done well, see ''WesternAnimation/{{Moana}}'
** Some areas in the Amazon and Congo close enough to civilization might have local radio. This can be an interesting to play around with.
* NoisyNature is a must. (Not the misplaced JunglesSoundLikeKookaburras) Using the sounds of real tropical birds, insects, growls and rustling waterfalls is very mesmerizing and fits perfectly with the scenery.
* NoSuchThingAsDehydration: (Subverted) If you are a game designer, adding thirst is a realistic and interesting limitation for the player. Also allowing water to be poisonous or hazardous can help add difficulty.
[[/folder]]
* AlternateHistory: Where the colonial age is still in effect in modern day, where we never left the technology of the 20th century etc. AlienSpaceBats might help here.
* A crashed CoolStarship or plane that CameFromTheSky
* AbandonedMine: Possibly more dangerous than an active one.
* AlienLandmass: For LostWorld or PlanetaryRomance stories ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin.
* AcidPool: Can come from ToxicInc, but it’s also okay to have it occur naturally.
** GrimyWater is also a good idea for a setting.
* AdvancedAncientAcropolis: A city of precursors with SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, MagicFromTechnology, Afrofuturism, or CrystalSpiresAndTogas.
** The inhabitants might have been whipped out by their own technology, but this is not required.
* AdventureFriendlyWorld: The jungle is this by default.
* Amazon Rainforest, a classic nightmarish, but beautiful area.
* AfterTheEnd: A post apocalyptic jungle, similar to Planet Of The Apes.
** UrbanRuins and UsedFuture are welcomed here.
* AgeOfReptiles is often good for a time travel story.
** It has even overlapped with AdventuresInTheBible obviously before Noah’s Flood.
* [[VestigialEmpire Ancient Empire]], similar to the RealLife Inca, Aztecs or Khmer, likely the Precursors of the various tribal cultures if fallen.
* AncientTomb: Related to, but distinct from the TempleOfDoom.
* Arena of Death: A place where a corrupt VestigialEmpire or LostTribe displays BreadAndCircuses and possible gladiatorial combat.
* TheArk: A spaceship likely to contain a jungle.
* BambooTechnology: This can look really cool in the background or used as an aesthetic in general akin to {{Steampunk}}.
* BioPunk: This aesthetic could really work if you have an EvilutionaryBiologist.
* BoomTown; A colony or new town, with large bustling industries and possibly some factories.
* BananaRepublic: A fictional equatorial dictatorship, and a non colonial version of TheEmpire.
* {{Bulungi}}: A fictional sub-Saharan African country.
* A cabin or shack where an action survivor lives.
* CityOfGold: classic.
* ConvenientlyEmptyRoads: Ancient roads created long ago or clearings used by ancient tribes or used by colonialists.
* CoolTrain: Many railroads ran through Africa and South America.
* CloseKnitCommunity: standard for any small town or friendly tribal village.
* A crashed Plane or CoolStarship that CameFromTheSky
* CreepyCave: Again classic.
* DangerousTerrain: Make sure to use loose or hazardous objects on the jungle floor, as some others leave their jungle floor rather bland, or just use grass, which is fine in clearings, but not under the thick canopy away from sunlight. Due to the RuleOfCool and real life tribal cultures, it’s possible that a highly trained character like a Tarzanesque will still be able to navigate subconsciously and easily, but despite the name not all the terrain should be hazardous either. Flowers, damp leaves, grass (in clearings) and other pleasant terrain features would also exist.
** In general, sticks, dead leaves and roots can be found on the jungle floor.
** Loose rocks are common in tribal villages, near rivers and on rocky terrain in general, especially volcanic soil.
* DarkestAfrica: It's an old one, but a good one.
* DieselPunk: Another genre and aesthetic born from pulp that often overlaps here.
* Dystopia: Either the colonial power of TheEmpire themselves or a subversion of the CannibalTribe. FalseUtopia is also welcomed.
* ElephantGraveyard: A graveyard of large animals like elephants, rhinos or even dinosaurs.
* EldritchLocation: A good place to find ancient primordial gods and monsters.
* EndlessWinter; The Amazon jungle has the Andes Mountains; The Congo has the Virunga Mountains, which are both most always covered in snow.
** The jungle itself gets cold at night with the degree dependent on elevation. On a high lush mountain, the temperature will drop significantly more than at sea level.
* ExtranormalPrison: Perfect for holding an eldritch abomination. Likely an ancient temple.
* {{FloatingContinent}}: Large lush floating islands suspended in mid air. Waterfalls coming off the sides are common because of the RuleOFCool.
** A floating city so civilization is in the sky and wilderness is below would be an interesting subversion.
* GlowingFlora: because BioluminescenceIsCool
* HollowWorld: Down where prehistoric life dwells, people included, as well as your odd Bronze age civilization, Barbary pirates, what have you!
* InjunCountry: A territory belonging to native peoples. Can be taboo.
* LavaAddsAwesome: Volcanoes are always welcome in a hungry jungle, especially if there is going to be a lost civilization or battle there.
* Lush Caves BeneathTheEarth
* LostWorld: A normal location, pocket dimension or even another planet that is completely inaccessible under normal circumstances. Sometimes in the GrimUpNorth.
* LocalHangout: a cantina is a good choice in south American settings. Possibly has the SaloonOwner and JungleJazz. If it's in BoomTown on another planet, a BarFullOfAliens is welcomed.
* MerchantCity: Bustling cities and trading post of bustling markets, usually including slave auctions, and even possibly a brawling cantina. Also likely to be a CityOfSpies.
* OrphanageOfFear: Usually appears in backstories.
* OutcastRefuge: A good place to find TheMissionary.
* OutlawTown; a small settlement absolutely crawling with {{Outlaw}}s. It could even be merely a camp of rogue soldiers.
* {{Prison}}: Dangerous due to more hostile conditions and inmates.
* QuicksandSucks, of course
* RetroUniverse: Of course this trope was most popular in the early to mid 1900s, so expect that asthetic.
* RopeBridge: A classic long narrow path to hand over a deep lush canyon.
* [[DownOnTheFarm Ranch]]: Home of the Vaquero and common in South American countries. Also perfect for a more WildWest tone.
* RuinsForRuinsSake: A classic here as well. AlienGeometry is also welcomed here.
* [[KirksRock Rock Formations]]: beautiful rocky terrain to contrast the lush green jungle.
* ScavengedPunk: A welcomed aesthetic in poor towns or among {{Outlaws}}.
* SecretRoom: Great for hiding an AncientArtifact to set off the plot.
* TheShangriLa: An oriental jungle location.
* Ships or Submarine: You will spend a lot of time here if you are or you are with [[RuthlessModernPirates River Rats]], a Venturous Smuggler or a simple River Merchant.
* SmallTowns: Many exist in Central and South America. Small settlements with smaller populations. Setting wise, they are halfway between the village of the LostTribe and the BoomTown.
** DyingTown
** SmallTownRivalry might occur
* ShrinesAndTemples: Ancient, though still used, temples are good places to be mentored or trained.
* SingleBiomePlanet: a jungle planet, expect AlienSky.
** An artificial RingWorldPlanet can also work.
* SpiritWorld: Depends on the author and tone. Might to anything from simply the afterlife like WarriorHeaven or actual heaven, to things like a pocket dimension.
* {{Steampunk}}: Usually it has themes of exploration and adventure, and sometimes overlaps with this genre, but is also generally a good aesthetic.
* SwampsAreEvil: “What are you doin' in my swamp!?”
* TempleOfDoom: This is somewhat of a must have if you have an AdventurerArchaeologist.
** AlienGeometry and BiggerOnTheInside is welcomed here.
* ThirstyDesert: Of course the savanna or similar dry grassland is likely to appear, but the jungle is hot and can be treated this way if the water is not drinkable. Kipling made drinking long and deep part of the Law of the Jungle for a reason.
* TreehouseOfFun: A must have for any good TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess. Just make sure to load it with BambooTechnology.
* TreetopTown: You know what’s better than one one Treehouse of fun loaded with BambooTechnology, rope swings and zip lines? Why a whole village of them interconnected obviously.
* [[TropicalIslandAdventure Tropical Island]] An easy to use classic in this genre.
* UndergroundCity: Another classic here.
* UsedFuture: Old technology often works well in the jungle, and the same applies when this genre is mixed with PlanetaryRomance, DieselPunk, {{Steampunk}} or other forms of ScienceFiction in general.
* WhenItRainsItPours: Especially true in the Jungle.
* WorldOfSymbolism: An interesting variation on the LostWorld.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Prop Department]]
* AncestralWeapon: A weapon passed down through generations.
* AncientArtifact: Usually a powerful relic left behind by a magical ancient culture AdvancedAncientHumans or even AncientAstronauts.
* AlienBlood: For BigCreepyCrawlies if not actual aliens.
* Axes: The axe has a place in the jungle, both as a tool and as a potential weapon.
* BambooTechnology: Very underrated. Look at Website/YouTube videos to see what someone can build with just a stick in the middle of a jungle.
* BattleBoomerang: A possible hunting tool of the BadassNative that can be adapted for combat.
** A DeadlyDisc could also be used.
* BlowGun: A common hunting tool.
* BolderBludgeon: Rocks make great improvised weapons.
* BoomStick: likely used by a lost empire.
* BowsVersusCrossbows: Crossbows not only existed in Africa, but this is also a good choice for a JunglePrincess, as normal bows require a lot of upper body strength to use, but a Crossbow is often more powerful with less required force from the wielder. It also highlights her intelligence, sense her weapon would be more mechanical.
** An AutomaticCrossbow is also a possibility with BambooTechnology.
* Canteen: (normal or handcrafted) is a good idea due to how important hydration and access to clean water is in the jungle.
* CoolAirship: a must in a {{Steampunk}} story.
* CoolBoat: A must for pirates and river merchants.
* CoolBike: Motercycles look cool in any jungle.
** HoverBike is also welcomed, especially due to it’s utility on uneven or hostile terrain.
* CoolCar. You need something stylish and capable of handling all terrain for navigating the jungle. A vehicle that has a mounted gun or is amphibious, is really cool.
** A hover vehicle is more plausible for the rough terrain.
** HoverBike it looks cool fits perfectly in a [[{{Steampunk}} Steam]] or DieselPunk setting.
** An actual hovercraft is also a great alternative from RealLife, as they are often used for harsh terrain.
* CoolGuns, of course a must for any heroic ranger or egomaniac hunter.
** Try some subversions like an arm cannon.
** Bladed weapons are more fitting underbrush when navigating the rainforest, in addition to protecting oneself.
* CoolPlane: A great choice for any AcePilot and some VenturousSmugglers.
** Even in a space setting, a SpacePlane would be very fitting.
* CoolStarship: Probably loaded with SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, and tied to the AncientAstronauts.
** EldritchStarship is a welcome alternative.
* DeviousDaggers, even for the JunglePrincess or TarzanBoy.
** Unarmed combat entirely like extreme matinal arts, can be impractical, but the RuleOfCool often makes it forgivable.
* DoubleWeapon; Usually impractical in any genre, but forgiven by the RuleOFCool.
* EveryDeviceIsASwissArmyKnife: A do anything tool, even a standard Swiss Army Knife works well in this survival setting.
** A SwissArmyWeapon would also be a welcomed addition.
* EnergyBow: Probably a piece of SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* FlareGun: A common tool used by stranded or lost characters.
* GRatedDrug: Drug trafficking is common in rainforests, but a more fantastical illegal substance might be less risky.
* [{{BFG Guns}}]: Usually more common among villains. RevolversAreJustBetter are a good option for the Big Iron used by the {{Ranger}}. Criminals like the EgomaniacHunter or {{Outlaw}} can use far less orthodoxia and less legal weapons though, like the SawedOffShotgun.
** Give them to your hostile tribes, as some tribes historically traded for firearms, and if their evil anyway, what’s to stop them from illegal arms trading.
* HazardousWater: Hydration is extremely important for survival in the jungle. Kipling even made drinking long and deep part of the law of the jungle. So you can easily see how this can be a problem.
* InstantSedation: In whatever form will likely be a common tool by the villains.
** Chloroform is classic here.
** You can use toxins of a dart frog for something more unique to the jungle.
** The heroes can use this too, if they want to avoid killing. SaveTheVillain. This is also less risky for a hunting protagonist.
* JungleDrums: Often used for communication between tribes. Giving specific patterns meaning is an interesting possibility for {{Worldbuilding}}.
** Ecploring other forms of low tech long range communication are more than welcomed. These can be anything classic smoke signals to a RealLife form of whistle based language that allowed farmers to communicate well over a mile.
* LostSuperweapon: A powerful MacGuffin that can instantly destroy either the jungle or the whole planet.
* LaserBlade: This elegant weapon for a more civilized age is likely an invention of TheProfessor or a piece of SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology wielded by the Tarzanesque or BadassNative.
* MagicStaff; Common for a Shaman or WitchDoctor and a must for a WizardDuel.
* MartialArtsStaff; A simple but efficient weapon.
* {{Mecha}}: Either a piece of lost SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, an invention of TheProfessor or an extreme example of BambooTechnology, likely an AnimalMecha or HumongousMecha.
* MixAndMatchWeapons: More than welcomed especially for a Tarzanesque crafting it by hand.
* NightVisionGoggles: Possibly used by soldiers.
* [[KiteRiding Personal Gliders]]: If you have bamboo technology.
* PoisonedWeapons: Any form of poisoned weapon is welcomed. At the very least, poisoned arrows are a must BadassNative or Tarzanesque using bows or crossbows.
* PrimitiveClubs; Very common for FrazettaMan.
* RayGun: Welcomed in a PlanetaryRomace, or {{Steampunk}} setting or even SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
** You can still give them to hostile tribes dealing in arms trading.
* RetractableWeapon: Pairs nicely with BambooTechnology.
* RopeBridge: Very likely to be unstable.
* [[SuperCallRecepttion Sat lite Phone]]: Great for a BoldExplorer to carry.
** A ham radio is also a great option.
** Other communications tech like two-way radios are a must if there is a team.
* [[LuckilyMyShieldWillProtectMe Hide Shields]]: Welcomed for any BadassNative.
* ShockStick; An EgomaniacHunter might use this on animals, but he might also use it for ColdBloodedTorture.
* Spears: A common and effective weapon in this genre, and in real life. They are often supirior to a sword in one on one combat.
** NaginatasAreFeminine; It’s perfectly fine for characters like the JunglePrincess to be physically weaker than their male counterparts, but less brute force shouldn’t correlate to less capable in combat. Therefore using pole weapons with more leverage makes a lot of sense.
* SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology as well. AdvancedAncientHumans always pair nicely with an AdventurerArchaeologist.
** You can even utilize some of the 70/30Rule, especially if your work overlaps with [[{{Steampunk}} Steam]] or DieselPunk. If you want to give your TarzanBoy a HoverBike or give your JunglePrincess a LaserBlade, go ahead.
** It doesn’t even have to be explicitly another science fiction trope, as having a high tech AncientArtifact, a high tech lost empire or an intelligent LostTribe that reverse engineered technology from ThePrecursors is more than welcomed.
* SufferTheSlings: Slings are an underrated and highly effective ranged weapon that can be found in the Amazon and Congo.
* Superweapon: The new toy of the EvilColonialist and TheEmpire they work for, to take care of those "pesky savages" so they can plunder what is left of the jungle.
** A SyntheticPlague is a good option here.
* [[{{BFS}} Swords]]: From the Khmer Empire’s [[KatanasAreJustBetter katana-like Dha]] blades, to the Aztec Empire’s obsidian shard lined clubs, to the Ida of Africa, most tropical societies had functional machete like swords. Expect SwordFight.
** At the very least, machetes are a must. They even have a martial arts system similar in some ways to fencing.
** You can even take this further with a FlamingSword, WhipSword or LaserBlade.
* A TimeMachine is perfect for the inciting incident sending the protagonist back to the AgeOfReptiles, back to an ancient jungle empire, the colonial period or forward to an AfterTheEnd jungle. Even the TARDIS had a JunglePrincess passenger.
** You can even have an [[SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology ancient temple]] with several [[PortalToThePast Portals To The Past]], or a gateway to a PortalCrossroadWorld.
* TreasureMap: A map to the AncientArtifact.
** Or a MagicCompass.
* WantedPoster: used by HiredGuns, and identify {{Outlaw}}s
* Whip: A classic weapon for the AdventurerArchaeologist and a good choice for the EgomaniacHunter on animals or even the EvilColonialist.
** A LightningLash would also work.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Character Artist and Costume Designer]]
The costumed are pretty iconic in this genre. Jungle explorers usually wear breathable clothing with lots of pockets, tools and boots, while jungle dwellers are typically scantily clad in animal skins. It’s far better to make the designs as distinct as possible. A simple AdventurerOutfit or FurBikini isn’t going to cut it. Instead opt for a MeaningfulAppearance, with small details or outfit subversions will both make your characters stand out and signal to the audience who your characters are. Also keep in mind practicality and RuleOFCool rather than RuleOfSexy.
* MeaningfulAppearance: If you want your characters to look unique, than starting here is an absolute must. Make sure you make costumes fit the characters rather than the other way around.
* AdaptationalModesty: It’s more than welcomed to subvert the classic FurBikini or {{Loincloth}} as alternatives are far less risky than the FanService everyone else uses. Even for RealLife cultures with looser modesty standards, going for modesty is seen as far more respectful than objectifying people based on the cultural dress. It also helps avoid AuthorAppeal dragging down the plot and characters. Additionally, many tribal cultures do have very strict sexual taboos and traditions involving modesty and protecting oneself from the sun and insects. This can also be a great asset to {{Worldbuilding}}.
** Take inspiration from real life.
** Make your costumes distinct from those of previous characters. You can include things like accessories and weapons of choice really come in handy here.
* AdventurerOutfit: Standard for the BoldExplorer or AdventurerArchaeologist. You can also try making it more modest as most explorers in real life had to have more protection from the sun and insects. BootsOfToughness and fingerless gloves are often used here.
** Make sure the outfit is still unique and reflects the characters’ personalities.
** BareMidriffsAreFeminine is common among female explorers. Although it can be a JustifiedTrope for heat and mobility, there is far less protection from sunlight or insects, so it’s best to avert this unless your adventurer is accustomed to the climate, including local diseases.
** A BadassLongcoat, albeit a much more breathable version or a some kind of raincoat could be interesting.
** CoatHatMask or GasMaskLongcoat would be excellent subversions here, even if a bit impractical.
** Ponchos are also welcomed.
** Don't be afraid to incorperate CraftedFromAnimals, especially for villains and {{Outlaw}]s.
* AmuletOfConcentratedAwesome: A good choice for your Shaman or WitchDoctor.
* ArmedLegs: A good choice for a {Steampunk}} or DieselPunk story is weaponized shoes.
* ArtificialLimbs: The jungle is a very dangerous place where one can easily loose a limb to man or beast, so this trope is welcomed in character design, especially in a {{Steampunk}} or DieselPunk story.
** Obviously, ArtificialLimbsAreStronger robotic limbs are a great option for TheProfessor and their friends or the EvilutionaryBiologist, but are far from limited to them. They might even have a SwissArmyAppendage. ArmCanon is also welcomed.
** Robotic limbs can even work really well on the AdventurerArchaologist {{Ranger}}, {{Outlaw}} or even just an ActionSurvivor. They might end up with a hook, pegleg, or even an EyepatchOfPower from their adventures.
** This could even be extreme BambooTechnology.
** CyberneticsEatYourSoul would be very interesting for the EvilColonialist. They can even be a TinTyrant.
* AwesomeAnachronisticApparel: Becouse this genre is often set in the past, this is more than welcomed no matter the time period.
* AwesomeBackpack: Standard for any BoldExplorer, their associates or their guides.
* BadassBandolier: a good choice for HiredGuns and rebel soldiers.
* BadassCape: The temperature in the jungle does drop at night, especially in higher elevation, so a handcrafted cloak or cape might make sense on occasion.
* BadassesWearBandanas: Cloths and bandanas are practical to clean sweat, collect dew or even conceal one’s identity.
* BadassLongRobe: Probably for a shaman, or [[BadassNative Badass Natives]] in general. Long and loose clothing is often used to protect against sunlight and insects by indigenous cultures.
* BarbarianLongHair: is usually welcomed for a TarzanBoy.
** WildHair downplayed to just ratty hair, can work excellently for the JunglePrincess.
** Subvert PermaShave, for example, a BeardOfBarbarism, albeit a much lighter version as well as CarpetOfVirility could really follow the RuleOfCool.
** ManlyFacialHair can work well for explorers and Egomaniac Hunters alike.
** TimePassageBeard is common for stranded o characters who GoMadFromTheIsolation.
* BeautyIsNeverTarnished
** Subverting this to add dirt, stains, battle scars and the like, follow the RuleOfCool.
** Making outfits more modest and less sensual as well, far less risky and makes sense with the elements of sunlight and insices. You don't have to use hijabis, tunics and robes, nor do you reed a FurBikini for heat and mobility.
* BattleBallgown: Likely to appear in a {{Steampunk}} setting.
* CoolHelmet: As well as CoolMask are welcomed for the army of the EvilColonialist or even an EgomaniacHunter trying to distinguish themself.
* CoolShades: They look cool, but protection from the sun is also important in the rainforest.
* CraftedFromAnimals: Exotic pelts and teeth for clothing is common in this genre and RuleOfCool demands it be used liberally.
** Other natural materials, like linen and burlap or even a more BoHo looking style is welcomed.
** It's okay to avert using furs and leather for primary dress, as they don't keep well in the jungle and would likely be very unconformable. Per the RuleOfCool, using pelts for outerwear and ornamentation is welcomed.
** It’s okay for you do have outfits CraftedFromAnimals as a trophy of the character's prowess, but KillingInSelfDefense or to protect someone else would be far less risky.
** Additionally, outfits CraftedFromAnimals would be interesting for HiredGuns, an EgomaniacHunter and various {{Outlaw}}s.
* FedoraOfAsskicking: Mot only is this an iconic piece for an AdventurerArchaeologist, but it’s also a great option for the jungle in general to protect from sunlight.
** Alternatives like a regular cowboy hat would provide the same function. You could also try something handcrafted like [[AllAsiansWearConicalStrawHats A Rice Concial.]]
* [[MeaningfulAppearence Fingerless Gloves of Edginess]] are a practical and cool addition to any outfit and generally always appear at some point in jungle opera stories.
** You can even utilize them, or at least HandwrapsOfAwesome, for a jungle dweller instead of just the BoldExplorer, as it makes more sense to protect the hands if a character is often climbing trees a lot. Adding claws or blades can easily invoke the RuleOFCool.
* FurBikini: or {{Loincloth}}: Although averting this is more than welcomed, these tropes are okay if you keep it appropriate, if it’s used to emphasize the jungle hero’s physical prowess and fearlessness, and if it fits the {{Worldbuilding}} of a character’s culture.
** Try using more than just a bikini. Take inspiration real cultural dress; for example, you could have a longer authentic loincloth, a bandeau top, a wrapped top, a sarong etc. Maybe add some accessories as well like wearable weapons, holsters, warpaint, HandwrapsOfAwesome, jewelry, the previously mentioned expect CraftedFromAnimals etc. The RuleOfCool demands it.
** Pieces of naturally crafted armor like a handcrafted pauldron, shin or arm guards {{Sarashi}} armor etc. are more than welcomed.
** Don’t forget to worldbuild your culture’s modesty standards. Just because they wear less doesn’t mean that they have no concept of modesty. Tribal cultures in RealLife have often have very strict sexual taboos so it's important to acknowledge this in your worldbuilding. For example, a bare midriff might be normal, but [[https://youtu.be/Fs72G3fIlog?si=MHCZ78IjQLBzzkfC the face is scandalous]]
** Use other materials. Fur and leather wouldn’t keep as well in the jungle, and it’s another way to make your costumes distinct.
** Don't be afraid to modernize the concept. Shorts or torn pants due to ClothingDamage are welcomed alternatives. The character might also opt for a classic AdventurerOutfit entirely, from trading. This is also more than welcomed, but make sure they still have a jungle dwelling survivalist aspect such as handcrafted jewelry, hand wraps, war paint and of course going barefoot.
** Please avoid Author Appeal It will drag down your plot and characters.
* GadgetWatches: A good choice for TheProfessor or the BoldExplorer he is working with. Having a walky talky is a great option for keeping in contact.
** A SuperWristGadget or TrickedOutGloves can also work.
* GogglesDoSomethingUnusual: More than welcomed for TheProfessor.
* GoodColorsEvilColors: can be played with a lot, especially given the vibrant styles of various tribal cultures.
* HairOfGoldHeartOfGold: A classic for the JunglePrincess. Usually the second part is left out for a flat MightyWhitey who thinks she is a queen or goddess. This can be interesting if the trope was played but straight.
** Of course there is no limit to hair color here. If you want a WorldOfTechnicolorHair, that's perfectly fine. It might even be an interesting JustifiedTrope if it hair dying tied into an ancient tribal tradition.
* HiddenWeapons: Would work very well for a Tarzanesque.
* EverythingsSparklyWithJewelry: this is a must for a JunglePrincess TarzanBoy or BadassNative. Things like earrings, necklaces, bracelets and anklets can add to a unique character design.
** MagicalAccessory is more than welcomed AncientArtifact.
** Using a kind of GlowingGem is more than welcomed, especially if you have a MagicalAccessory, but not necessarily limited to it.
** Even the men wear jewelry in many jungle cultures.
* LabcoatOfScienceAndMedicine: Might be used by an EvilutionaryBiologist or even TheProfessor.
* [[SwordAndSandal Light Sandals]]: (Or foot wraps) Depending on character preferences or how extremely hazardous the jungle floor actually is with scorpions, insects and thorny plants etc. It's perfectly understandable why one would subvert the classic EarthyBarefootCharacter trope. In such cases however, you might opt to go with footwear that's common for indigenous cultures of the jungle in RealLife.
** Moccasins have been used for the Tarzanesque before, but they aren’t recommended. They are more associated with temperate cultures and might look out of place on jungle dwellers.
* MartialArtsHeadband: Can work for some warrior characters.
* MaskOfPower: Either used by an {{Outlaw}} to conceal their identity or MaskingTheDeformity, used to protect the GasMaskMooks of ToxicInc., or it can even be used by the Tarzanesqque.
** The DominoMask is a bit overrated, so it makes sense to opt for something more practical like a gas mask, a ninja cloth or bandana, which can be more effective.
** CoolMask is also welcomed.
* MinidressOfPower: A fur, leather or vegetation variation has been used for the JunglePrincess before and the added modesty makes it a good alternative to the FurBikini.
** Most artists and writers still forget to add details and accessories to make the outfit distinct. Taking inspirations from real tribal dress is an excellent way to avoid this problem. In general, remember to use the RuleOFCool and make outfits fit the character rather than making the character fit the outfit.
** ShortsOfModesty are obviously a good idea here.
* PrefersGoingBarefoot: This practically a staple of this genre for jungle dwelling characters, especially for the TarzanBoy and JunglePrincess. [[JustifiedTrope Justified]] for traveling through the trees, It typically demonstrates to the audience how knowledgeable the characters are about the hostile environment, It’s not unrealistic as since RealLife jungle dwellers manage to navigate barefoot without much problem, even in the Amazon with bullet ants and scorpions. It would be unrealistic to ignore the shift in lifestyle for someone who is used to shoes. Independent research is recommended.
** Avoid the risky MagicalBarefooter as it involves stereotypes related to animism or primitiveness. As one of the editors of this article who grew up in the country and near the ocean can tell you, rural or coastal dwelling people often go barefoot all the time, even in western societies, but it’s purely out of preference and comfort and has nothing to do with a mystical connection to the earth. Additionally, making it a quirk can really add to a character.
** HandwrapsOfAwesome are still a great option here. If you spend a lot of time in the trees, you need you feet to be flexible agile and have a better grip, however a little hand protection makes sense. It also looks cool.
** Also, you should subvert BeautyIsNeverTarnished, as habitual barefooters, especially in the jungle, will have scars and dirt from their lifestyle and more spread out toes. The probably won’t have as many calluses though, because as the skin becomes thick and supple like leather, most dead calluses usually wear away.
** For Kipling's sake avoid AuthorAppeal. Just PLEASE NO!
* RaceLift: Use it liberally, as virtually all classic characters of this genre can work with any ethnicity or even as NotQuiteHuman.
** The race of your indigenous population also varies depending on where your story is set.
* [[ManInAKilt Sarong]]: (skirt like garment) is pretty standard for a BadassNative, but would also be a unique and practical costume for the TarzanBoy.
* {{Sarashi}}: In RealLife, similar tight wraps were used as armor by some African cultures, because the layers of cloth offered protection against melee attacks without being as uncomfortable as metal. This makes it a great choice for a BadassNative or Tarzanesque warrior.
** Normal armor like paulsrons, shin guards or bracers made from leather, wood r other natural materials are welcomed as well.
* ScavengedPunk, (aka Salvagepunk) for poor small towns and or designing costumes for of HiredGuns, rebel soldiers or the {{Outlaw}} in general.
* SexyVillainsChasteHeroes: would be an interesting subversion in general due to all of the Fanservice associated with this genre.
** Keep in mind though that modestly also means humility, so just making evil outfits more expensive, shiny or attention grabbing would also work. This is especially good to contrast with humble handcrafted clothing.
* ShouldersOfDoom: A Pauldron would be a piece of armor light enough to use without being too hot for the climate.
* StaffOfAuthority for chiefs and shamans.
* ThisMeansWarpaint: A must for a BadassNative, and more than welcomed for a Tarzanesque.
* UnorthodoxHolstering: Having various visible sheaths and holsters are more than welcomed on any outfit. Don't limit it to the belt though. Items and weapons carried on the back or legs can also look cool.
* UtilityBelt: Standard for an AdventurerOutfit, but also welcomed for the Tarzanesque.
* WeaponBasedCharacterization is a good way to keep your characters distinct. Giving your EgomaniacHunter use something other than a simple rifle, or giving your BadassNative and Tarzanesque something other than a simple hunting knife and bow is more than welcomed.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Casting Director for Heroes and Protagonists]]
The characters are pretty classic in this genre, such as the BoldExplorer, GreatWhiteHunter, TarzanBoy and JunglePrincess. Of course these characters are usually outsiders as the protagonist, exploring the jungle with the audience or feeling just as much of an outcast to the setting as the audience. Don’t let this mean that your characters are MightyWhitey. Mowgli was an outsider to his wolf family despite being native to India. PowerFantasy can also easily take away from the thrill of adventure and danger this genre is iconic for. Another trap an author might fall into is using an {{Expy}}, either of a preexisting characters, stock character or throwing in a crossover because the base characters have been recycled so many times. The rainforests of RealLife have seen every kind of person imaginable, so it’s not hard to find inspiration in history or present day. Additionally, {{Deconstruction}} and {{Reconstruction}} of classic tropes can make for intriguing versions of previous concepts. As for the {{Crossover}}, of course it is welcomed in this genre, but only when it comes organically from the themes and tone the author is trying to explore.
--> See Also: SoYouWantTo/MakeInterestingCharacters
--> Many of these have evil counterparts that will be explored in the “Villains” folder.
* TheAce: A leader of a team of explorers.
* AcePilot: A classic for taking people to and from the jungle, weather through the atmostphere or space.
* AdvancedAncientHumans: always welcomed to subvert HollywoodNatives. They will obviously have SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* AdventurerArchaeologist: Of course, but they don’t have to be an archeologist. They can be a paleontologist, anthropologist or any other kind of adventuring scientist, and they can come from any background.
* {{ActionGirl}}s: Why do you think the Amazon rainforest is named after the warrior women of myth?
* ActionSurvivor: This is less of a BoldExplorer, and more of your average audience insert, who is resourceful, and quick to adapt to the alien situations, and likely to become a love interest.
* [[BadassCrew Adventurer Team]]: A team of skilled and combat ready conservationists, anthropologists archeologists search team, explorers, missionaries or even venturous smugglers. A basic team set up probably would include, TheProfessor (a DoAnythingRobot if he has one_, TheAce, an ActionPet, CunningLinguist, an ActionPet and a standard Tarzanesque.
* AncientAstronauts are another interesting way to add lore and [[JustifiedTrope justify]] SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* AntiHeroTeam: Vigilantes devoted to a task, with some GreyAndGrayMorality.
* ArtificialAnimalPeople: A possible sick product of experiments by the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* [[BadassNative Badass Natives]]: Of course having skilled and intelligent natives is a must. Be sure they don’t become
[[NobleSavage Noble Savages]] or simply childish people. As characters, they should have their own motivations and personalities. Distinguishing them from each other is crucial. Don’t forget to [[{{Worldbuilding}} Worldbuild]] their culture.
* BadassBookworm: A must if you have TheProfessor and works very well with the Tarzanesque.
* BadassBureaucrat: A political leader who actually does good.
* BarefootLoon: A character who was likely stranded and isolated in the jungle for decades in which period he will GoMadFromTheIsolation. He also likely has a TimePassageBeard.
* BarbarianHero: A similar aesthetic in and cousin trope trope to the Tarzanesque. They likely live nearby in the snowy mountains. {{Worldbuilding}} their culture and making them distinct from thee Tarzaneque is a must. They are likely going to have different languages, modesty standards, diets, spiritual beliefs etc.
** You can also make them more suited to their environment with heavy armour, plenty of clothing, or [[TheOneWhoWearsShoes The Boots Of The Barbarian]]
* BoldExplorer: A classic here, but can also come from any background.
* BountyHunter: They can bring you in warm or they can bring you in cold and are usually anti-heroic HiredGuns.
** Because most are [[OnlyinItfortheMoney Only in It for the Money]], they can also be [[PunchClockVillain just as villainous]] as the usual {{Outlaw}}, if not [[PsychoforHire even worse]].
** An IdealHero version is also okay, but they still need to navigate their more lawless adversaries.
* TheChiefsDaughter: similar to the JunglePrincess, just less of an outsider and more of an actual Princess.
* CunningLinguist: A must for any Adventurer Team. Most always the AdventurerArchaeologist, Tarzanesque and TheMissionary will be one of these.
* {{Cowboy}}: More accurately the Vaquero, who drove cattle in tropical areas of Central America. Possibly a DeterminedHomesteader.
* DamselInDistress: (Or DistressedDude) The jungle is a great place to get captured. This is kind of required in the job description of any Tarzanesque, to be a BadassInDistress or at least a DamselOutOfDistress..
** Make sure that there is a good sense of danger. The character has to be actually powerless, at least for a little bit, but they never should become passive because they are helpless. They can try to trick or persuade the villain to give them something, think of a way to escape, [[PlayAlongPrisoner get captured for a higher goal]], [[TakeMeInstead be captured willingly to save someone else]], or just simply have good chemistry with their captor.
** BadassInDistress is a classic in this genre.
** JunglePrincess characters should always be at least a DamselOutOfDistress.
--> If your kidnapped individual can be replaced by a bag of gold than you are doing it seriously wrong.
* TheDrifter: a character who has survived in the wilderness and is good with weapons and often drifts from town to town, and village to village, fixing local problems in exchange for lodging or for help on his quest; most likely also happens to be the Tarzanesque character.
* HeelFaceRevolvingDoor: Many of these character have evil counterparts, and because many have an OnlyinItfortheMoney or PunchClockVillain nature, traditional villains like HiredGuns, the EgomaniacHunter, RuthlessModernPirates, many {{Outlaw}}s, or even the SinisterMinister can be allies when it suits them or assist as PsychoforHire.
* ForestRanger: More likely an AntiHero, this character is fully devoted to protecting their forest home. Not to be confused with the {{Ranger}}, who is further down.
* GreatWhiteHunter: They goes out looking for adventure involving capturing or killing game. They can be of any background despite the name. This character is highly risky due to controversy around hunting. Not all hunters are malicious though, and some do a lot of good unrelated to hunting, but because of how risky and dull this character is today, you should consider the following subversions.
** They might be a hired to protect a character from dangerous wildlife, or to capture a foreign animal to prevent it from spreading disease and overpopulating, for research purposes, or they might be hired to stop a dangerous monster attacking a village or town. The less risky InstantSedation is more than welcomed here.
** A good modern approach is making him a YouTuber, filming their adventures and discoveries in the rainforest.
** They could also primarily work as a BountyHunter.
** They could also be a straight up criminal like a RoguishPoacher, but this is very risky and depends on the author. See VenturousSmuggler below.
--> (Please do your own research as these controversial aspects as they will not be explored in this article, but ideas are welcomed in the discussion tab).
* TheGoodKing: A good chief who cares for their people is a must.
** Their tribe itself can still be hostile if the WitchDoctor has magical influence over them, similar to Theodin of Rohan in The Lord of the Rings.
** You can also use this trope to subvert the EvilColonialist, as a couple kings in the age of colonialism did go out of their way to provide humanitarian aid or ensure the indigenous population was treated well, often failing to do so because of corruption among their men and distance. Of course this doesn’t mean that colonialism should be justified, but it is an great opportunity for nuance. As always, character arc is welcomed.
* {{Hobbits}}: Using classic pigmies would be very risky, but a fantasy race instead might work.
* IdealHero: A classic in this genre, especially for characters like the Tarzanesque, the NatureLover, TheMissionary and the {{Ranger}}. Usually this is the main cast in the less intense Saturday morning stories, but in a more mature or realistic setting, they are likely going to be The TheDeterminator trying to navigate on the strait and narrow in such a lawless and hostile environment. Be sure to explore their moral compass and values rather than simply making them the good guys.
* LaResistance: Perfect for apposing the BananaRepublic or TheEmpire colonialists. In the less intense Saturday morning GreenAesop story, expect them to be YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters in more mature works.
* MageSpecies: Not quite human or alien creatures with strange abilities.
* TheMissionary: A religious character, most likely to be a BadassPreacher or BoldExplorer combined with RealMenLoveJesus, where he (or she) is a person of principals who fights for those principles with their life; very present historically, often stopping slavers and providing humanitarian aid. They are likely to be an AllLovingHero or something of an IdealHero, but they don’t have to be the only character like this.
** A good version of this to use is someone like the Circuit Riders of the Old West, who were less connected to colonial powers, operated relatively independently were usually good with weapons, traveled often and were known for adapting to different circumstances quickly.
** Also this character can justify a Tarzanesque, if they are survived by their child who is taught the tribal traditions of martial arts and hunting, but still maintains their parents' faith and principals. As an adult, these [[RealMenLoveJesus expect some overlap.]] Even if not a parent, a mentoring figure or teacher of languages is also welcomed.
** It's also worth mentioning that this character does not have to be a Christian. They might be of a more fantasy religion. They could be promoting a faith or tradition indigenous to the area. CrystalDragonJesus is useful here, but not required. (They definitely do not have to be white) Maybe they will be more focused on other forms of missions work like medical missions or education instead.
** They are more than welcomed to not be white. Many missionaries in RealLife are surprisingly local Also Fantasy races are interesting as always.
** You can also give them another profession on the side, as it is not only common in real life, but also make this character more distinct. They might be an Ecologist, Anthropologist, AdventurerArchaeologist, or even a regular BoldExplorer. There is a lot to play with here.
* MountainMan: A character who lives off the land alone away from society; often somewhat unstable. Maybe a victim of prejudice.
* NativeGuide: Someone indigenous to the continent or planet to guide the BoldExplorer, and by extension the audience through the new and dangerous setting. Of course, this character is often relegated to a forgettable side role unfortunately, but if he or she is handled right and the author takes care not to appropriate any real-world cultures, this character can make an excellent mentor or tutor for the protagonist.
* NatureHero: Also known as the Conservationist. Usually an ecologist or sometimes Tarzanesque characters themselves.
** Remember, it is not only welcomed, but most logical for them to be often threatened by a criminal who isn’t hurting the environment. The jungle is a dangerous place to people in general, especially with the criminals that inhabit it.
** It’s also ok for them to still have to deal with the [[NatureIsNotNice hostile nature]] around them rather than making them a FriendToAllLivingThings.
** A regular NatureLover or AnimalLover is more than welcomed.
** There is a danger of stereotypes around indigenous people and their beliefs. Instead of having your NobleSavage paint with all the colors of the wind, give them a more relatable less abstract motive, like how the resources they use being exploited by someone else will hurt their tribe.
* NobleSavage: A classic in this genre, but you might want to avert this. Real tribes are composed of people with very complicated cultures, and reducing it to being InHarmonyWithNature and painting with all the colors off the wind will really hinder your worldbuilding.
** These are people, so they should have their own motives and personalities. This isn't to say that cultural values are unwelcomed, as these are important to worldbuilding any culture. Something like Kipling's Law of the Jungle is always interesting. These values should not start with InHarmonyWithNature, because that can be seen as stereotypical and risky. Instead focus on things like loyalty to the tribe, respecting elders, respecting ancestors and traditions, storytelling, cleaning and sanitation, their diet, being resourceful, how to track, staying hydrated etc. These more grounded cultural values will make them feel more grounded and realistic. Environmental values are also more than welcomed, but they should be based around the tribe’s way of life and how the have learned to use and rely on the rainforest around them, rather than just being morally superior. Also, be sure to allow some people to be ignore taboos be hypocritical or even be malicious. Every culture has good and bad people in it.
** Their culture might also might vary in morality like any other culture. Tribes are small countries essentially, and some are peaceful and friendly, while others are dictatorial or invade neighboring tribes. Even a peaceful tribe will probably end up called to war eventually. Exploring how tribes interact with other cultures, especially other tribes, really adds to the {{Worldbuilding}}.
** It's actually a stereotype that all indigenous people worship nature, when in reality they use and rely on the rainforest around them for food, clothing and tools and this often effects their culture. Going with the latter approach will actually reinforce a GreenAesop, because when people exploit the rainforest around them, their people and way of life will actually suffer rather than merely being offended on the rainforest's behalf.
** While typically applied to non-white ethnic groups, the first examples of the trope originate in AncientRome and were applied to the very white Germanic tribes. With this in mind, they do not necessarily have to be non-white.
* NotQuiteHuman: Fantasy races and aliens for both a heroic LostTribe or Hostile Tribe are welcomed in this genre, and are generally less risky than classic human natives.
* NonPoweredCostumedHero: This is a must for the Tarzanesque, as apart from limited powers from an ancient artifact, they work best with a very vulnerable human aspect to them, but this trope is not limited to them, as even Batman met Tarzan once. Having a roguish hero protecting people in the jungle with epic skills and no superpowers, apart from or in addition to the Tarzaneesque, is more than welcomed.
* NubileSavage: Not recommended, but can be forgiven.
* PoliticalHostage: A possible DesignatedVictim or target of outlaws, terrorists, a corrupt cooperate executive, an obstructive bureaucrat or even an evil colonialist.
* TheProfessor: Usually an AbsentMindedProfessor or a BadassBookworm who is known for MacGyvering and being AwesomeByAnalysis. They are also the one whole builds most of the gear the explorer team world use. They might be a zoologist or botanist studying wildlife, an ecologist studying or protecting the ecosystem or a doctor trying to FindTheCure. They might even be a physicist who either invented a CoolStarship or TimeMachine that brought them to the LostWorld, or they are still in the ordinary world conducting experiments away from civilization that would make Nicola Tesla himself proud.
** He doesn't have to be white or even human.
* {{Ranger}}: with a [[RevolversAreJustBetter big iron on his hip]] and a mean RoundhouseKick, is an excellent law man for this genre.
** Remember, he will have the responsibility of stopping nature threatening and human threatening outlaws alike. If he doesn’t have enough funding to effectively stop poachers, he also doesn’t have enough funding to effectively stop TheSyndicate or RuthlessModernPirates.
** Having him recruit or deputize other characters like the Tarzanesque is far less risky. Making them close friends is more than welcomed.
* TheRepublic: Either a the protagonist ruling entity before they become a BananaRepublic dictatorship, or they are the good counterpart to TheEmpire, being a large country that will step in to help the local power because they have very good relations, the latter is most likely to be neutral. If they are more malevolent, they might turn turn the former into a PuppetState.
* RetiredBadass: Likely a soldier or Tarzanesque who has long feared that his sins would return to visit him.
* SamuraiCowboy: A very skilled warrior combined with TheDrifter. Likely the Tarzaneque character themself or the BadassNative.
* SuperSoldier: Can be an IdealHero, a villain or AntiHero. This is a mutant with actual superpowers, likely a experiment of the EvilutionaryBiologist or humane experiment of TheProfessor. It could have been discovered to be inhumane but the golden hearted volunteer probably insisted they keep going.
** AnimalIsTheNewMan is another alternative, but it can be flipped on its head if humans are viewed as animals.
** If they are heroic, playing down their powers really adds to the sense of danger. Inversely, evil super soldiers can have more exaggerated powers, really playing into the terrifying side of them as a jungle monster.
* SendInTheSearchTeam; A search and rescue unit.
* Shaman: Can be a unique mage or MentorArchetype. He is likely to be a BarefootSage. Sometimess they don't use magic functioning as just aa sage or philosopher, possibly with knowledge of local medicines or science that can be shared with outsiders as part of the tribe’s trade, but that's not as fun as making them an actual wizard, uusually with ElementalPowers like GreenThumb or Animorphism. They probably carry a MagicStaff. There are several ways to improve them from their hollow predecessors.
** They shouldn’t be more powerful because they are more InHarmonyWithNature. Not only is this stereotypical and risky, but magic by it definition is something that changes nature and is above it. Additionally if you make modern medicine and science look full by comparison it might come off as contrived. Make sure to make your own magic system rather than using HollywoodVoodoo, and remember [[FunctionalMagic magic limits]] are always more interesting than abilities.
** Weather magic is spiritual or [[ScientificallyUnderstandableSorcery connected to the laws of the universe]] depends on the author, their beliefs, and the tone of the story. Some might think that MagicIsEvil because of religioous convictions or simply want to make their magic stand out more, so such authors should consider using ScientificallyUnderstandableSorcery, and [[SufficientlyAnalyzedMagic Thaumaturgy]] and SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology. DoingInTheWizard.
** "Magic" as a word might be dull due to how often it is used in fiction. In some cases it might also be risky due to personal religous convictions or some people who have had bad experiences with the occult (especially in the jungle), therefore alternative names as well like Bending, The Force, Energy or any other form of MagicByAnyOtherName is more than welcome.
** Another possibility is that this is an angelic being who lives in the jungle to guide mortals, referee to as a Shaman by mortals who don’t understand their nature, similar to how Gandalf was seen as a Wizard in Middle Earth.
** KungFuWizard is more than welcomed.
** Make sure they have some limits to their abilities.
** This kind of character can overlap with TheMissionary, especially [[ReligionIsMagic if they are part of a fantasy religion]] as part of the Worldbuilding.
** They might also overlap with TheProfessor as a ScienceWizard.
* [[FamilyBusiness Small Business Owner]]: An honest business owner to contrast the CorruptCorporateExecutive, who might be their primary enemy, but they are also likely to be harassed {{Outlaw}}s intentionally trying to drive them out of business. They might end up looking for the AncientArtifact or lost treasure to save their FamilyBusiness.
* Tarzanesque: Of course the classic TarzanBoy, but this includes his more popular DistaffCounterpart the JunglePrincess. Whoever they are, they are likely an outsider usually orphan, though backstories can vary, who grew up in the jungle, and understands it intimately, as well as its various cultures and languages. They are normally good at CombatParkour traveling by VineSwing, have tat least one ActionPet. They are generally an EarthyBarefootCharacter and BadassNative who travels from town to town or village to village as the KnightErrant or even TheDrifter, and they often end up a BadassInDistress hunted or captured by enemies.
** Using the JunglePrincess is more than welcomed, but due to the horrible realities around human trafficking, objectifying someone of another culture and good character writing in general, please don’t make her MsFanservice. Just PLEASE NO! The same applies to the TarzanBoy, but he rarely suffers from the same problems as his DistaffCounterpart. AmazonianBeauty is more than welcomed, but by the RuleOfCool rather than RuleOfSexy.
** Personality is crucial. If they can't laugh, apart from pride at the defeat of an enemy, or can't weep (when it's appropriate at least) than you are doing something seriously wrong. Things like quirks, hobbies, desires, fears and friendships or phycological factors like their Dominant Sense or personality type are all means to make this character unique. Don’t simply use the classic Tarzan or Sheena template.
** Make their backstory unique. Seriously ask yourself questions about them and think outside of the box. Where do they come from? (Are they even human? Who were their biological parents? Do they come from a legacy of similar warriors? Are they a lost native? Are they the [[LastOfHisKind Last of Their Tribe/Kind]] after ThePurge? Do they come from a legacy of [[EvilColonialist Evil Colonialists]]? Were they foretold by a TheProphecy. Are they acctually orphaned, simply lost or are their parents evil?) How did they end up in the jungle? (Was it a magical, technological or criminal means? Did they willingly leave society or were they brought there against their will. Were they raised from infancy or are they a Robertsonade? (Are they trained or self taught? Who raised and who trained them?) How is their relationship to the local tribes and the jungle itself? (Do they experience prejudice? Did they have to gain their tribe's respect as an outsider? Do they see themselves as one of the tribe or animals that raised them? Are their biological parents potentially still alive?)
** Give them a unique Design and MeaningfulAppearance, because a simple FurBikini is not going to cut it. AdaptationalModesty, ornaments and acessories and [[WeaponBasedCharacterization unique weapons of choice.]] Are all more than welcomed. Making them another ethnicity or even NotQuiteHuman are more than welcomed. You should also try deconstructing the classic trope by giving them more skills in martial arts and stealth. In general think more GratuitousNinja than Ape Man or MsFanservice.
** Avoid PowerFantasy. Many characters here end up being a MartyStu or MarySue, where they can easily break out of any bonds, defeat any opponent, are worshipped as a ruler or deity, and why worry about the JunglePrincess with the dangerous animals if she can [[FriendToAllLivingThings Control Them?]]. True agency in a story includes the ability to fail and making hard moral choices.
** Also avoid MightyWhitey. Any ethnicity and background is welcomed for this character, and it's more than welcome for them to be a indigenous BadassNative, despite being an outsider to their families like Mowgli or to even be NotQuiteHuman entirely. No matter what the case, they should see themselves as one of the natives rather than superior to them. Humility is often considered a mark of a true hero.
** No HulkSpeak. Hulk Hate Hulk Speak, Hulk Speak used too much and make people look dumb. The better and less risky approach is having the character AwesomeByAnalysis, able to read animals and even people like a book through body language. They should also be very quick to pick up on languages, especially if they come from a tribal culture surrounded by tribes with other languages. It also makes sense for them to learn a few more foreign languages from TheMissionary. Also, an authentic unique accent local or foreign is a welcomed alternative to simple American.
** Although the IdealHero is common for this character, you should seriously consider their moral compass. Having a classic ideal hero who is compassionate, has close friends, mentors young warriors, protecting those that hate them, saving their enemies and general personal convictions are welcomed, but you still have to consider things like do they follow an ancient code from the tribe or the jungle and its beliefs tied to the {{Worldbuilding}} or did The Missionary have a [[RealMenLoveJesus big impact on them?]] Do they hunt because they see themselves as part of the food chain or do they refuse because they see themselves like the animals that raised them? Are they a heroic character that has a price on their head or are they merely an outcast? If you make them morally ambiguous, then are they an AntiHero or VigilanteMan? Would they work as a BountyHunter or are they an actual {{Outlaw}}?
** Don’t be afraid of their gender. If you have a JunglePrincess it’s okay for her to be compassionate, nurturing and good at multitasking, if you have a TarzanBoy, it’s okay for him to be actively heroic. It’s also okay to subvert them as well, but be sure it ties into a more complex character. Making a JunglePrincess masculine by making her stoic and dominating is a common sin when writing her. Even a Tarzan boy wouldn’t be interesting with the same personality. Additionally, it’s okay for the JunglePrincess to be physically weaker. If she is using a crossbow, preferring a pole weapon, or utilizing a martial arts style focused on dodging attacks and using the opponent’s strength, then these can all be more interesting than super strength.
--> See SoYouWantTo/WriteAnActionGirl for more info.
** Giving them an actual profession or trade could be very interesting. They can gather resources gather from plants, trade in crafts, independently farm or even take up bounties on criminals. How they use what they get can also help expand on their character. Do they donate to the local ecologist or the local missionary? Do they support their tribe in some way? Might they trade what little they get for books or to buy back culturally or personally significant items. Are they willing to get their hands dirty as an {{Outlaw}}?
** Give them distinct friends, apart from Animals and the attractive BoldExplorer. Family and friends, and their relationships really will help strengthen any character. Tribes are also sometimes a very CloseKnitCommunity, so a strong value of loyalty makes sense.
** Making them a BadassBookworm is more than welcomed. It might also be interesting if they cited multiple facts they learned from reading.
** Give them a unique name. Just because it ends with the letter “A”, that does not mean it works. The name should express some aspect of their role or personality as with any character.
--> SoYouWantTo/DevelopCharacterPersonality
--> SoYouWantTo/WriteABadass
* TimePolice: If TheProfessor isn't careful when travelling to the AgeOfReptiles or an AfterTheEnd [[SingleBiomePlanet jungle Earth]], he might encounter these guys.
* VenturousSmuggler: This is the Heroic Counterpart to the {{Outlaw}}. He is most likely to be a RoguishPoacher, {{Pirate}} or AcePilot and a JerkWithAHeartOfGold, but they're definitely a LovableRogue akin to Eugene Fitzherbert, Jack Sparrow, Captain Jack Harkness, Peter (Star Lord) Quill, Han Solo etc.
** They tend to follow some CodeOfHonor despite their dishonest lifestyle. They are usefully highly charming and charismaticas well.
** They can also be of any background, but might take offense if you called them scruffy looking.
** Due to their charismatic and charming personalities, they should have fun chemistry with characters, especially if they have different worldviews. They might even tell the JunglePrincess, "Look, your worshipfulness, let's get one thing straight, I take orders from just one person: Me"
** Take advantage of EvenEvilHasStandards. Maybe the RoguishPoacher would shoot animals, but draws the line at people and will go out of their way to defend the natives. "Professionals have standards"
** They might even thrown into a dishonest lifestyle after rebelling against a corrupt government like TheEmpire based on their principles, like Jack Sparrow telling Beckett, "People aren't cargo mate"
** Another possibility is having them directly fight against an evil power like the [[TheEmpire Colonial Empire]] or BananaRepublic JustLikeRobinHood.
** You can also make him a ReformedCriminal. Redemption is always a good theme and works perfectly for this character, but if you go this route make sure to call out their evils for what they are. Excusing or not recognizing how a redeemed rogue has committed serious crimes like theft or assault to law enforcement is a common flaw for the LoveableRogue.
** They might even be a morally good character like TheMissionary or Conservationist, smuggling food, medicine censored goods to those that need them.
** Alternatively, they might be and stay a rogue entirely depending on the author.
* VillainProtagonist: Due to how many evil counterparts this genre has, a story told from a villain's perspective might work very well, especially in a place as lawless and unforgiving as the jungle.
* WastelandElder: Either living in the nearby savanna and grasslands or being a veteran survivor of the HungryJungle.
* NinjaPirateZombieRobot: Tarzan has met several characters and monster from outside the genre.Parodies or recreations can work very well.
** Of course, just because another work or character had a cameo, doesn’t mean it inherently makes sense for your work. It’s a good idea to connect it more to the genre.
*** Which is better: Classic Conan, or a Tribe of Barbarians in the mountains? Frankenstein’s monster or an EvilutionaryBiologist putting together a monster made from corpses in native burial grounds and animal parts trading with poachers? Wear wolves or wear big cats.
** RuleOFCool says merging different concepts that don’t make sense at first can really work. Does a Tarzanesque ninja cyborg sound ridiculous? Of course. Is it cool? Definitely with sufficient effort and careful writing.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Casting Director for Villains and Foes]]
This genre has threats more Predatory than a tiger. The villain is a very important aspect to any real jungle opera, even if the antagonist is simply the hostile environment itself. This genre does have a long history of stereotypical or controversial villains but many can be reworked to be intriguing. Remember a villain needs more than disagreeing with the author to be a compelling threat, and aspects like comedy, threaten9ing presence, history with the cast, potential for redemption etc. all add depth.
A big pitfall can be adding something outside the genre or supernatural simply because audiences supposedly don’t enjoy realistic villains. In reality people simply don’t enjoy being preached to, so villains centered around political corruption, hurting ecosystems or human trafficking can come off as a mouthpiece for the author’s worldview rather than a nuanced thought provoking character if an author isn’t careful. Additionally, the jungle is such a hub of corruption and crime that finding inspiration for a unique villain from history or present day is far from hard. Of course a good EldritchAbomination or crossover is welcomed in this genre, but they should be used because they fit the tone or themes of the story the author is trying to tell rather than simply trying to be original.
--> See Also: SoYouWantTo/WriteAVillain
* HungryJungle: To start off, the jungle is already full of enough threats that it can make a compelling antagonist for a survival story. You should generally have classic Big Cats and Gorrillas on occasion, but focus on other nightmares like, Bullet Ants, and the Executioner Wasp (both of which deliver the most painful stings known to man), sharks, stingrays, disease carrying mosquitoes or ticks, large snakes and spiders, scorpions and tree frogs capable of [[AndIMustScream paralyzing you]] before death.
** Also focus on the DangerousTerrain itself, like the lava and sharp glass and lava from volcanoes, QuicksandSucks, natural disasters etc.
** Also, have some dangerous plants, like poisonous plants that cause itching and chemical burns, thorny plants (like tree cacti, wait a minute vines, nettles etc.), and of course classic Man Eating plants.
** {{PrehistoricMonster}}s can also be antagonists.
** While not an antagonist, sea mines drifting into rivers can be a serious obstacle.
* EvilAllAlong can work due to the sheer amount of evil counterparts of the main cast, but it’s not always recommended.
--> "[[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSmcGuPQi0A&pp=ygUcc2NoYWZmcmlsbGFzIHR3aXN0IHZpbGxhaW5zIA%3D%3D “That was his mistake”]]
* AlwaysABiggerFish: There is a surprising amount of ways villains can be layered. A dangerous animal is being hunted by an EgomaniacHunter, who is employed by an EvilutionaryBiologist, who is employed by an EvilColonialist, who is under the authority of TheEmpire, who is being led by an ObstructiveBureaucrat working for an EvilOverlord, who is working with an EldritchAbomination.
* [[AliensAreBastards Aliens]]: A possible dangerous enemy in the jungle.
* AntiVillain: Can be common in the lawless HungryJungle.
* [[ArchaeologicalArmsRace Artifact Thief]] are a must have for an ArchaeologicalArmsRace. They can be an ordinary smuggler and EgomaniacHunter trying to steal an ancient artifact for a quick buck, or they can be employed by or one of ThoseWackyNazis. They could even be a WitchDoctor who has their sights set on an ancient ArtifactOfDoom or Superweapon built by the AdvancedAncientHumans, seeking to rule the jungle with it.
* ArmsDealer: A dangerous criminal, who has even more dangerous weapons. They might be supplying your villains, even the hostile tribe realistically, with [[BFG fire arms]] or even a [[RayGun laser guns]].
** They need not be there to sell arms, they may be there to retrieve arms instead. A lost missile would certainly be something to attract their attention.
* [[ImAHumanitarian Cannibal Merchant]]: In locations where humans were bought and sold as slaves cannibalism was likely more of an industry and trade than a "savage" tradition of a local tribe, contrary to popular belief. In some locations it was also possible to find humans being bought and sold for meat in markets. Horrifically they were also kept alive and immobile to keep the meat fresh.
** There were also several historical secret societies that practiced cannibalism as well. This could justify a HighClassCannibal.
* CargoCult: especially if you have SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology.
* CaughtInASnare: (Or an InescapableNet) or other trap left by a long inactive EvilPoacher or by a current hostile tribe.
* CorruptCorporateExecutive: This greedy ditbag cares little for the environment, much less his own employees. Of course he pollutes on purpose and uses under the table slave labor, but he might also compete for the AncientArtifact against the protagonists.
** Tip: Think less Captain Planet Villain, more Big Jack Horner.
* DecoyDamsel: Possibly hired to help lure out the Tarzanesque.
* DangerousDeserter: Rogue or rebel soldiers using Guerilla warfare. You can even have a whole section of the jungle controlled by them. A camp of them can be an excellent alternative to the captured by cannibals trope.
* DirtyCommunists: If working with a Cold War setting. They need not be Russian, as they could be Chinese, North Korean or even from a Soviet-allied state such as Katanga or South Kasai. Common for a BananaRepublic.
* DirtyCop: The corrupt and evil counterpart of the {{Ranger}}, who is more than happy to let the wrong {{Outlaw}}s off for the right price, or to frame an innocent person for money or power.
* FindTheCure; disease is also another default danger of the rainforest.
** The SyntheticPlague is more likely if you have an EvilutionarilyBiologist.
* TheFundumentalist: An negative counterpart to the IdealHero. PrejudiceAesop is common in this genre, so a character fully set in their worldview and unwilling to listen to other points of view is likely to come up eventually. This character is likely not [[KnightTemplar actually villainous]], and they usually experience a character arc instead. If they are more extreme, they likely fit a more villainous trope.
** TheMissionary is the most likely to be this, but keep in mind that this is not limited to religion. The NatureLover, DirtyCommunist and even the Shaman could be this as well.
** Additionally worldviews and religions multiple facets, so the Shaman, the NatureLover or TheMissionary might end up confronting a negative version of their faith.
** As mentioned before, this character is typically more flawed than actually villainous, so they are still distinct from their evil counterparts like the SinisterMinister, EcoTerrorist and WitchDoctor. Additionally, because this charactter is more of a flawed character, they might bee driven to join forces with someone they disagree with in order to defeat the actual BigBad.
* EcoTerrorist, the evil counterpart to the conservationist, who loves or even worships nature and is willing to do whatever it takes to defend it, even if that means breaking laws, destroying property or taking lives. They are usually used for VigilanteInjustice.
** There are two variations of this character;
*** The first is the misunderstood AntiVillain, who is more likely to only destroy property than actually kill people and are more likely to be redeemable.
*** The other version is far more extreme, but are willing to stop when they can rest and watch the sun rise on a grateful jungle. They see humans as expendable or even cancerous and they are willing to [[ThePurge Execute Order 66]] in order to "save their jungle."
** This character can even be an evil version of the TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess.
** They could also be or be part of an AnimalWrongsGroup.
** They don't have to be from the jungle either. Having someone from a foreign country, who doesn't entirely understand issues like the jungle dwellers, or a mad alien on a quest to balance the universe are both welcome.
* EgomaniacHunter: They may or may not be insane and engage in an extreme hunting purely for fun, for greed and for pride, and they usually dabbles in a little bit of [[HuntingTheMostDangerousGame murder and kidnapping]] as part of their sport, because they enjoys a good challenge. This is a classic in this genre, and he works very well because of how much of a direct threat they are to the protagonist, but due to how often they have been used, consider the following subversions.
** Instead of having this character new to HuntingTheMostDangerousGame or simply disposing of whitenesses, this character a would make an excellent SerialKiller. They would still poach of course and they can still enjoy the chase of the hunt with their targets, but having them target and hunt down specific innocent people would be a welcomed subversion.
** A more than welcomed and realistic subversion is making them PsychosForHire using his hunting skills for making more cash than just poaching, especially if they hunt humans anyway. They might also be [[ImAHumanitarian cannibal merchant]], who enjoys the chase more than usual.
** Give them a hobby or aesthetic other than poaching, something they can use as a calling card for their big crimes.
** They can be hired to hunt people, either as one of many HiredGuns, for genocide (see ThePurge below) or to provide both animal and human specimens for the EvilutionaryBiologist. (See Also: HumanTraffickers)
** Remember there is more to hunt in the jungle than animals. An Egomaniac Gold Miner or Egomaniac Archaeologist and the like are all welcome subversions, distinct from regular outlaws by their still having a focus on instincts. Even the ordinary egomaniac hunter can engage in other crimes if they are really interested in money without caring about the law. They might even use forced labor.
** Does not have to be white or even human. Fantasy races are more than welcomed as always. This character has also been an evil TalkingAnimal, like Sheer Khan.
** Related to but distinct from the EvilPoacher, as the latter often uses different tactics and has different customers. Poachers generally use more traps, focus less on sport, might have more sympathetic motives and generally deal in other contraband. The EgomaniacHunter is focused on instinct and enjoying the hunt itself, they might use their prey’s friends for bait and they are almost always [[ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin insane.]]
* EldritchAbomination: These were used in this genre by Lovecraft himself and can serve as an interesting BigBad or GreaterScopeVillain that the evil WitchDoctor, EvilutionaryBiologist, or EvilOverlord either worships or is [[AlliancewithanAbomination working for]].
** Giving them an interesting personality is more than welcomed. Try making them an actual villain rather than a mindless monster.
** They might not even be necessarily evil, but rather operate on [[BlueandOrangeMorality Blue and Orange Morality]]. This can also overlap with ObliviouslyEvil and/or AffablyEvil.
** They might be a former partner/mentor of TheProfessor. This could explain how TheProfessor knows so much.
** Keep in mind that traditionally bizarre and alien abominations are always more than welcomed, but if you're worried about breaking the overall aesthetic of a Jungle Opera, yet want to keep the same otherworldly terror, you might want to consider making it an AnimalisticAbomination or BotanicalAbomination, which are both explored in the plant and animal coordinator folder below.
* TheEmpire: An often dictatorial and colonial power, so they are usually NazisByAnyOtherName Expect employees like the EvilColonialist, and soldiers from the ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy.
** They don’t have to be colonial. They can simply be a local dictatorship,
* EvilColonialist: He cares about nothing but resources and power and is likely a GratuitousNazi.
** He might be an evil counterpart to the AdventurerArchaeologist.
** You can contrast him/her with TheMissionary, unless that character is also an evil colonialist and a SinisterMinister.
** He doesn’t have to be white. China has been taking control in multiple parts of Africa recently, and some tribes to invade neighboring tribes for resources or to expand influence. As usual, be careful. {{Worldbuilding}} a fantasy race is much safer here.
** Colonialism often happened out fear of a more dangerous or antagonistic country colonializing first or colonizing the colonialist. Therefore, having your EvilColonialist fighting a more evil political power can add to the overall {{Worldbuilding}}.
** The character need not be there to actually colonize the land, but still be there to exploit the country and natives.
* EvilutionaryBiologist: An EvilCounterpart to TheProfessor or even them as DoctorVonTurncoat, They are sadistic and obsessed with progress and are likely to conduct experiments with human and animal specimens alike, courtesy of the local EvilPoacher and HumanTraffickers. Expect them to capture the Tarzanesque, if this character discovers them, and conduct horrible experiments, with the belief they are either the missing link or next stage in human evolution. They are also potentially another EvilColonialist employed by TheEmpire or part of the BananaRepublic.
** They can even be the WitchDoctor, conducting grotesque experiments because AlchemyIsMagic.
* EvilPrince: A brutal leader killing and torturing for the throne, can be tribal or colonial.
* EvilOverlord: The leader of TheEmpire.
* FakePrince: A chief who has stolen his position from a good chief.
* FallenHero: Many heroes in this genre have evil counterparts, so a story about the turn evil would be more than welcomed.
* FrazettaMan: Basically an EvilCounterpart to the Tarzanesque. The Frazetta Man is a staple of the Jungle Opera. They don’t have to be stupid or AlwaysChaoticEvil and can be individualized, but they are a good alternative to the CannibalTribe.
** They can be subservient to the WitchDoctor or failed creations of the EvilutionaryBiologist.
** Any form of HumanSubspecies is welcomed here, whether Prehistoric, Fantasy or Mutant. They might even be a HenchmanRace created by the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* GeneralRipper: They do not necessarily need to be Imperial German, Nazi or what have you. They do not even need to specifically be human. The setting could be a BananaRepublic with them being one of the local antagonists. Due to the fact that some real-world poachers are military, They might be one themselves.
* HiredGuns: Mercenaries are more common than most people realize in the jungle, and they can make great direct antagonists. They are likely to be only motivated by greed without regard for human life making them perfect threats, usually hired by greater antagonists.
** They may work as [[BountyHunter Bounty Hunters]]. After all, bounty hunters are often OnlyInItForTheMoney. They may hunt other villains and do the right thing for all the wrong reasons.
** They can be hired by illegal operations to kill the conservationist.
** They can be hired by a cultist or corrupt missionary to hunt down TheMissionary.
** They can even be allies on occasion if they are hired to take down a criminal. However, they may betray the heroes to either claim the bounty for themselves, or because cashing in on the heroes' bounty is much more profitable.
** They may overlap with EgomaniacHunter, being a [[PsychoforHire Psycho for hire]] who enjoys [[HuntingtheMostDangerousGame Hunting the Most Dangerous Game]].
* HornyVikings: A lost colony of Norsemen is a classic, even if it does not entirely make senses. Realistically, they would have integrated into the local peoples, so they will likely have combinations of attire, weaponry and even spiritual beliefs.
** Horned Helmets have not been found in Nordic countries, but are forgiven by the RuleOFCool, especially with local materials like Rhino horns.
* HumanTraffickers: They can be very risky, but make excellent antagonists if they catch a hero or a loved one. They also make an excellent supplier of fresh specimens for the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* [[TheSavageIndian Hostile Natives]]: Usually a CannibalTribe often kidnaps, tortures and even eats unsuspecting explorers. Although very risky, evil nations and culture exist, and the fact that they are human means that they have the potential for great good or great evil.. Additionally, depicting all natives as pure and harmonious with nature can be equally risky.
** A manipulative chief can make the tribe something like a small Dystopia or TheDictatorShip. Also, do some research into real evil cultures to extrapolate totalitarian philosophies from.
** Use {{Worldbuilding}} to give them their own detailed culture. Things like their actual ideology, religion, language, clothing, hunting strategies and diet, trade and political relations with other tribes or colonial powers can all make them feel far more grounded.
** Make them distinct. Make sure they of individuals with their own personalities and motivations. Making them collectivist is also welcomed, but only if there is a real reason like cultish manipulation or some kind of mind control. Even then, a couple of good ones are always welcomed.
** Picking up from the last point, make them an actual cult, where the leaders manipulate and abuse the people below them; A ReligionOfEvil with an interesting lore and understandable code can be interesting, especially if they tie into the fantasy gods or forces of the universe. The tribe can even be humane and helpful so the leader can try to manipulate the protagonist into joining them rather than kidnapping and torturing him for no reason. An evil variation of TheMissionary can work very well here.
** Give them political ties and trade including with the EvilColonialist. Some tribes were involved with slave trades historically.
** Give them guns. Several real and hostile tribes did trade for firearms.
** They don’t have to be indigenous either. A LostColony driven mad or Fantasy races are always welcomed.
** A good alternative is a band of rebel soldiers, who have created their own small society.
** Make it a polite culture that just doesn’t take kindly to trespassers, instead of Cannibals.
--> If you think that depicting a cannibal tribe is stereotypical, racist or you think it is unjust to depict anyone as evil enough to kidnap, torture and eat people, don't worry. Most every real cult in history is far far worse than anything you can remotely find in fiction. Do some research into real cults. Possible side effects include: nightmares and severe loss of faith in humanity.
* Illegal loggers and illegal mines work well in this genre, especially if they are threatening a cast member’s village or kidnapping one of the cast for forced labor.
** Consider some alternatives. An illegal archeology dig could be dangerous as well.
* Imperial Germans: If you are working with a World War I setting, kind of a precursor in pulp to ThoseWackyNazis.
* DarkActionGirl: An intiresting subvrsion for the JunglePrincess, but [[LadyLand Tribes of amazon warriors]] are very common in this genre, often as villains.
* LostColony: A classic in this genre, and can be anything from a leftover fragment from the colonial age, an excuse for {{Steampunk}} to even the Knights Templar after losing their way looking for the Holy Land. Not required to be evil, but usually are.
* MegaCorp: They are a giant heartless cooperate entity that doesn't care about the environment, their workers or their customers. Their only goal is power, to own and control everything.
** Making them a techno feudalist corporation or Corporatocracy is more than welcomed.
** Remember they are likely TooBigToFail. Having them DrunkWithPower instead of simply greedy, is a great alternative.
* MightyWhitey: This character can make for an excellent antagonist. An evil version of the Tarzanesque, who believes that they are the King or Queen of the jungle. Proud and arrogant. They still defend the tribes that recognize their authority, but they torture and kill anyone who apposes them. They could also be an EcoTerrorist.
* MonsterOfTheWeek: The jungle is full of dangerous creatures. This is especially the case if the [[EvilutionaryBiologist Evilutionary Biologist's]] experiments escaped, if AllMythsAreTrue, or in a LostWorld in general. These monsters might be magic ordinary, but still very dangerous, animals, might be alien, might be robotic or can even be humans with abnormal abilities.
* NephariousPharaoh: In cases of Ancient Egyptian-based lost cities, villains such as this may appear. Reflecting the real-world history, the pharaoh in question may be man or woman and they may even be an example of TheUsurper.
* NotQuiteHuman: As mentioned before, a fantasy race is a good alternative for a CannibalTribe or other potentially risky tropes where the characters are not acting human either. Classics here include LizardFolk and OurZombiesAreDifferent. Even FishPeople are welcomed here.
** They can also be a general race or faction adding to the overall {{Worldbuilding}}.
* NukeEm: When a villain is so despite for resources or so hellbent on destroying an indigenous population that they are willing to leave the jungle an inhospitable wasteland.
* ObstructiveBureaucrat: Politics are messy, so this guy (from any background) can play a big role in several problems. Typically the most they will get is a slap on the wrist, obviously because they are the senate.
** He might be funding the HumanTraffickers, if the victims are historical enemies of his people. He might be funding your EvilutionaryBiologist.
for a [[GeneticEngineeringIsTheNewNuke Bioweapon]].
** They can also play a large role in letting the right kind of people off the hook in order to further their political agenda, and then unjustly punishing political threats to them.
** He might willingly not provide enough funding to stop certain outlaws. He can also be bribed by wealthy human traffickers, gang leaders, warlords or criminals running big operations.
** He might hire an EgomaniacHunter to [[ThePurge Execute Order 66]]
** Due to the fact that some real-world poachers are corrupt officials, he might be one himself.
** Making them a HighClassCannibal would be a fitting subversion in this genre.
* OurGiantsAreBigger: Having the classic small people based on the pigmies is extremely risky, but going the opposite direction would be a welcomed alternative.
* {{Outlaw}}: There are many different variations, but whoever they are, they are breaking the law and they are willing to do whatever it takes protect their operations, including kidnapping or killing.
** While EvilPoacher is common, the character did not become common until late into the genre. This is because the jungle is filled with different kinds of criminals like organized crime syndicates, pirates, general smugglers, rogue military groups, mercenaries, commercial poachers/thieves for hire, bandits, highwaymen, serial killers, terrorists, corrupt officials etc., with an additional reason being there was little distinction between the Evil Poacher and the EgomaniacHunter. While most outlaws do engage in poaching due to the black market value of things like rare pelts and ivory, but they also deal in other illegal substances like stolen artifacts, weapons, counterfeit money, stolen ores or illegally mined precious metals, organs, drugs, slaves, children etc. If you have an outlaw, allow them to be a more specific kind of criminal. It’s okay to write them engaging in poaching, just make sure they aren’t only a simple poacher. Utilizing TheHighwayman, RuthlessModernPirates, TheAggressiveDrugDealer, the ArmsDealer, GangOfHats, HumanTraffickers and other criminal tropes for an EvilPoacher is a good way to make them more distinct and realistic.
** Although smuggling various things is common for the outlaw, consider some other alternatives. They could be hiding from the law. They might be a cyber criminal working remotely through satellites. They might rob a railroad or terrorize a small village or town. They might try to take private property by force to illegally use its resources. They might kidnap village elders to interrogate them looking for a lost artifact etc. “Allow most of them to have a more complex EvilScheme than capture/smuggle x”
** Remember, having them steal or kill people to protect their operations is one thing, but having them draw their skills for other crimes for hire, independent of their illegal operations, can make them more dangerous.
** They don’t have to be white. Fantasy races can equally work, many criminals in jungle countries are local.
** They don’t have to be criminals of the jungle. They might simply be [[ExactlyWhatItSaysOnTheTin hiding from the law]] for a crime they committed outside the jungle. They could even be a RetiredOutlaw, in which case they are probably less likely to be a villain.
** They could be a dangerous criminal banished from the LostTribe rather than an outsider.
* OutsideGenreFoe: As mentioned before, this genre commonly has NinjaPirateZombieRobot. Just make sure the crossover is organically related to the tone or themes you are going for as an author.
* ThePurge: Genocide is unfortunately very common in the jungle.
** Can be combined with the EgomaniacHunter as some marksmen were hired for genocide historically like the slaughter of the Tasmanian Aborigines.
* PredatorPastiche: A very formidable opponent if you want a science fiction element, especially for PlanetaryRomance.
* PoliticallyIncorrectVillain: Should be avoided. Again, if the audience should hate them because [[DesignatedVillain they disagree with your worldview]], then they need work.
* [[PsychoforHire Psycho for Hire]]: Many villains in this genre are OnlyInItForTheMoney, so they can preform brutal tasks for someone else if they are offered the right price.
* ReligionOfEvil: Can be very interesting as long as there is {{Worldbuilding}} around it. Make it tie into your lore and your fantasy evil gods.
** Many of the most barbaric societies in history were highly advanced, so utilizing a Fallen Empire or a VestigialEmpire could work very well.
* RenegadeSplinterFaction: A group of terrorists, more extreme then their predecessors.
* RuthlessModernPirates: commonly known to the people of the Amazon as River Rats. They likely engage in several crimes of smuggling and trafficking various contraband. They plunder and pillage and don’t give a hoot after all.
** SubmarinePirates, SkyPirates and SalvagePirates are also welcomed.
* {{Sadist}}: This is common for several villains in this genre like the WitchDoctor, the EgomaniacHunter, the EvilColonialist, the EvilutionaryBiologist etc. This trope is often used to emphasize the danger of the villains, as making them ruthless is one thing, but making them enjoy causing harm makes them more dangerous and their danger more exciting.
** Be careful not to use this in AuthorTract. While it is tempting to make the villain enjoy hurting children in a theme about human trafficking or having and to have an evil poacher enjoy hurting animals for a green aesop, it is going to come off as contrived rather than actually making a meaningful point. Instead focus on the hero’s resolve and values as this is a much better alternative for AnAesop.
** Also don’t let this trope get in the way of making the villain entertaining. Humor and charisma are still more than welcomed and they can actually make this trope even more effective if handled right. Expect dark humor in particular.
* SinisterMinister: TheMissionary can also be a good villain as a {{Cult}} leader, or working for or as an EvilColonialist. Equally present in history to the Heroic Counterpart.
* SmallTownRivalry: A tribal community might be threatened by another village they have bad blood with.
* SpacePirates: Could make an appearance in a PlanetaryRomance.
* SpreeKiller: Someone killing everything in a rampage.
** Could also be TheEmpire making a part of the jungle purposefully inhospitable with a {{Superweapon}} to plunder it for raw resources or to irradiate a political threat.
** They can go after other villains too.
* StandardEvilOrganizationSquad: Having a team of villains devoted to a specific task. If you already established multiple villains, this might result from a VillainTeamUp.
* TheSyndicate: A of very organized criminals that are very common in real life. They are likely to be behind many of the other villains and criminals, and they will utilize HiredGuns to take care of threats.
** There can also be a GrayAndGrayMorality version of them, offering bounties on local criminal like other cartels, local poachers, or general outlaws. This doesn’t mean they are good guys though.
* TinTyrant: Possibly a SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology robot, a armored leader of the VestigialEmpire or a CyberneticsEatYourSoul EvilColonialist.
* VestigialEmpire: A lost jungle dwelling superpower, and potentially a AncientAdvancedAcropolis. They are usually evil.
* ThoseWackyNazis: A must for any World War II or Dieselpunk story. They could also be a LostColony in the Amazon Rainforest, as many Nazis fled to South America following the war.
** If the story is set during World War II, expect them to be part of an ArchaeologicalArmsRace.
* TinTyrant: Having an EvilColonialist or an employer of the Evil Colonialist, who is more machine than man, might be interesting.
* ToxicInc: Obviously risky and seen as lazy for a GreenAesop, but a deeper political motive, as a decoy to wipe out some indigenous villages, can be interesting.
* TragicVillain: This is far less risky if you have a controversial antagonist.
** By no means does this mean their crimes have to be justified, and contrasting honest alternatives to dealing with their circumstances, or a theme of redemption is more than welcomed.
** This trope works best for small time criminals, henchmen and nooks rather than the BigBad themself.
* UnwittingInstigatorOfDoom: Can be from an enviromental crisis of releasing disease and displacing animals or it might involve something more fantastical like accidentally activating an ancient LostSuperweapon, these are very much on the grey side of the spectrum and don't necessarily need to appear in person.
* TheWarlord: Likely a former colonial or indigenous leader who is hellbent on control and genocide, who will forcibly take over local power. They also have no regard for the rainforest and will rule it with a mind of metal to build up their armies and gain more power.
* WitchDoctor: An evil counterpart to the Shaman, this character is often a very manipulative and likely to be the leader of the ReligionOfEvil who cares only about their influence over the tribe rather than their tribesmen. They are likely to engage in activities such as, fulfilling ancient prophecies, a brutal ImperfectRitual or any form of HumanSacrifice. They are also very likely to be an EvilChancellor to the chief.
** As mentioned before, this genre is a subgenre of ScienceFiction, and the theme of science vs superstation was played a lot more straight in this genre. The Witch Doctor usually didn't have any actual abilities in older media and was merely superstitious, being angered or confused by the technology and medicine of MightyWhitey. While you obviously might want to avoid this portrayal, you can still make this character an excellent villain without actual magic, as simply making them an actual cult leader who manipulates and abuses their tribesmen with fear, guilt and pleasure is a welcomed subversion. The dynamics of real cults is often far more horrifying than any curse or monster in fiction.
** Having them actually use science and build machines to give an appearance of supernatural abilities or curses is also a welcomed subversion for them to manipulate their tribe. Making them intelligent in general instead of superstitious is a must as it is not only less risky, but it also makes them far more terrifying. Also making this character [[KungFuWizard good at combat]] is still welcomed.
** In more recent media, they might practice actual dark magic. Depicting them as an EvilSorcerer is also more than welcomed welcomed. Just make sure they are still manipulative and intelligent. Abilities and practices include practice TheDarkArts, AllianceWithAnAbomination, {{Necromancy}}, MindControl, and Divination. Just be sure to [[{{Worldbuilding}} Worldbuild]] a real system of evil spirits or use an [[EldritchAbomination Eldritch Abominations]] rather than relying on HollywoodVoodoo.
** WeCanRuleTogether, where this character tries to convert enimies instead of killing them, is an excellent subversion.
** They don't have to be tribal. Having them in the government forming a BananaRepublic, working with {{Outlaw}}s and smugglers to their own ends, secretly operating as an EvilSorcerer for their own ends is also welcomed. They also don’t have to be indigenous. Having the colonial EvilOverlord of TheEmpire be a wicked sorcerer or an EvilutionaryBiologist who is messing around with dangerous forces of the jungle beyond their comprehention are both more than welcomed.
* YourTerroristsAreOurFreedomFighters: The evil counterpart to LeResidence.
[[/folder]]
[[folder: Plant and Animal Coordinator]]
The jungle is by its nature filled with countless species of animals and plants. Because these plants and animals can usually be allies, antagonists or even the McGuffin, it seemed like they deserved their own folder. Weather the story leans more towards InHarmonyWithNature or NatureIsNotNice is a decision only the author can make.
* Animals in general of course.
** Subvert HerbivoresAreFriendly. Many authors tend to depict all herbivores as peaceful and all carnivores as dangerous man eating predators and depict killing a herbivore in self defense as evil, while fighting a carnivorous animal is perfectly fine, it can be unrealistic or risky if poorly researched. Many herbivores can be more dangerous than many predators because they are very territorial and powerful. On the other hand just because an animal is carnivorous, that doesn’t mean they are automatically going to kill humans as most have a very specific diet. Many animals only attack humans in self defense as well. As always, killing an animal as a last resort is always less risky. In general, please do your own research.
** Don’t limit them to gorillas, monkeys and big cats. The Amazon alone already has nightmares like stingrays, sharks, electric eels, alligators, scorpions. As well as the bullet ant and executioner wasp, which both deliver the most painful stings known to man. There is a lot of variety and hazards, so have fun with these.
** AlienAnimals: Are more than welcomed, especially on earth ironically. Having an animal look just like an earth equivalent is okay, but admittedly unrealistic in space, but finding something that looks normal and harmless, but turns out to be dangerous and unnatural in the Amazon or Congo could be very fun. They might have ties to the magic of the setting or a fictitious disease.
* ActionPet: A must for any TarzanBoy or Jungle Princess. Especially because raising, taming and training a dangerous animal to fight at your side is demanded by the RuleOfCool, and is much better than FriendToAllLiving, where nothing will attack you your character.
* AllAnimalsAreDomesticated: Avoid this. Allow your characters to actually be in danger unless they can befriend an animal over time.
* AnimalAssassin: Having a pet to kill for you.
* AnimalisticAbomination: At least somewhat resembles regular jungle fauna, but is bizarre, otherworldly, and unnatural. Perfect for the alien ecosystems of a LostWorld or jungle planet.
* AntAssault: A common danger in this genre.
* AttackAnimal: The pet of the BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* BigCreepyCrawlies: big bugs for mounts and monsters.
** The Giant CreepyCentipedes is a common RealLife example.
* BizarreAlienBiology: works well for any alien ecosystem.
* BotanicalAbomination: At least somewhat resembles regular jungle flora, but is bizarre, otherworldly, and unnatural. Perfect for the alien ecosystems of a LostWorld or jungle planet.
* ClockRoaches: If a time travelling [[TheProfessor Professor]] isn't careful, he might run into these monsters.
* ClockworkCreature: Obviously in a {{Steampunk}} story you would want cool automata, but this is theoretically another piece of BambooTechnology; a robot running on warden pulleys and rope.
* DoAnythingRobot is a perfect companion for ActionSurvivor or EvilColonialist in a [[Steampunk steam]] or DieselPunk setting or even in a normal setting for the EvilutionaryBiologist or TheProfessor.
** A NatureLovingRobot is always welcome in this genre.
* FantasticFlora: A must for any LostWorld or jungle planet.
* GeneticAbomination: Likely a product of the EvilutionaryBiologist
* GiantSquid: This and other tentacled monsters are classic.
** Keep in mind underrated aspects of biology here. Octopuses for example have blue copper based blood.
* {{Golem}}: Either animated by the WitchDoctor or Shaman, or an InNameOnly [[SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology Ancient Robot]] mistaken for magic.
* GreenGators: A classic. Sometimes also a villains pets or means of execution.
* HorseOfADifferentColor: Mounts of any kind weather alien, prehistoric, giant or fantastic are more than welcomed.
** Elasmotherium, a unicorn like creature related to the rhinoceros could look cool.
* HypnoticCreature: Common for snakes, but can be intiresting for other animals like bugs.
** They can simply make your character hallucinate rather than hypnotize them.
** Making it a property of venom rather than HypnoticEyes or song is a more realistic variation.
* InsectoidAliens: Can be interesting natives or animals.
* KidnappingBirdOfPrey: Even birds will try to kidnap you in this genre.
* {{Kaiju}}: Monsters are already common, but you can have a really big one.
* KillerSpaceMonkey: In the case of a SingleBiomePlanet, and can be in any form.
* KingKongCopy: A big gorilla is common in this genre.
* LightingBug: Fireflies make great ambience.
* LivingDinosaurs: as mentioned before. You can even use ArtisticLicenseBiology to give them interesting abilities or make it so the DinosaursAreDragons.
** This is complicated as our knowledge of dinosaurs historically is always changing and might very depending on the author’s worldview. Doing your own research is recommended as always, but it’s also okay to have ArtisticLicenseBiology for the RuleOFCool. Just make sure to include {{Worldbuilding}} around them, like what do they eat, how do they act, are they territorial, how do they communicate etc.
** DomesticatedDinosaurs: are also welcomed for an AttackAnimal or cool mount. Just please go with the more realistic and appropriate How To Train Your Dragon approach where you’re rider actually befriends the animal rather than the questionable (and highly illegal) Methods of Avatar.
* [[ManEatingPlant ManEatingPlants]] are another staple of this genre. You can even make them sentient.
** BotanicalAbomination is a good alternative.
* ManiacMonkeys: If you want an animal antagonist, you can't go wrong with a chimpanzee. While most people would think of the gorilla, and have done so for years, it is actually the chimpanzee that is the dangerous one.
** In an AnimalIsTheNewMan scenario, the chimpanzees could exhibit many of the characteristics shown by the genre's human villains.
* MechanicalAnimals: Surprisingly common in this genre. Big ones make great weapons of the villains.
* MosquitoMiscreants: Very annoying or dangerous Mosquitoes. This is why you should dress modestly in the jungle.
* MixAndMatchCritters: Having hybrids can be interesting in a LostWorld. It’s not entirely implausible in RealLife either, as this was essentially the discovery of the Platypus.
* NatureLovingRobot: Possibly a piece of SufficientlyAdvancedBambooTechnology, a creation of the professor or a personal RobotSoldier of the EcoTerrorist.
* NobleWolf: A classic for stories set in Asia. Even in South America and Africa there are wolf like creatures.
* NotSoExtinct: A good option for using extinct animals. Scientist have often found living fossils of various kinds in the wild.
* OurWerebeastsAreDifferent: Creatures such as werehyenas can be formidable antagonists, thus bringing the supernatural into the mix. Also, [[PantheraAwesome Wear Big Cat.]]
* OurCryptidsAreMoreMysterious: Of course some dangerous prehistoric or unknown animals can be excellent threats. Classics include dinosaurs, man eating plants, zombies. You can even try something in the snowy mountains like a yeti if you are feeling particularly adventurous.
** Do some research into other aspects of prehistoric animals and Cryptozoology. You could have a megalodon, with sharks already in the Amazon River. Also the Elasmotherium, a cousin to the rhino, is the perfect way to incorporate unicorns. Just remember these are definitely more likely to trample or stab you than have magic, but that just makes them cooler.
* OurHydrasAreDifferent: a good monster to guard temples.
* PantheraAwesome: Could be an ally, enemy or even sometimes a mount.
* ParasitesAreEvil: There are several parasitic creatures in the jungle in RealLife, but they are somewhat underrated in this genre.
* Planimal: This might be interesting as a monster or regular wildlife.
* PiranhaProblem: Obviously in the Amazon, but a classic.
* ProudPeacock: A very pretty and arrogant bird.
* PsychoElectricEel: These actually live in the Amazon river.
* PrehistoricMonster: A common antagonist, but prehistoric creatures and plants are also very common here.
* RaisedByWolves: Normally the origin of the Tarzanesque, if they aren’t RaisedByNatives.
* RidiculouslyCuteCritter: This is a must for the jungle.
* RobotSoldier: A new toy after the EvilColonialist realized his men couldn't hit the broad side of a barn. Might be a very terrifying threat though if it is evil.
* RocBirds: Big predatory birds.
* ScaryScorpions; even if they are small, their stings can be painful or even deadly. Common in most every jungle.
* ScaryStingingSwarm: There are a lot of stinging insects in the jungle.
* SnakesAreSinister: Snakes are usually big and have a DeadlyHug. They also sometimes have HypnoticEyes.
** Consider giving them hypnotic or hallucinogenic venom.
** The GreatSerpent could be an interesting monster.
** Making them actually sinister is common but not required.
* SpidersAreScary: Spiders are a common danger in all jungles.
* SinisterStingrays: Another Amazon river monster.
* StarfishAliens: Perfect for an alien ecosystem.
* ThreateningShark: Bull sharks live in the Amazon.
* [[HedgeOfThorns Thorny Plants]], thorn trees, tree cacti, wait a minute (thorny) vines, stickers and other similar hazards are considerably criminally underrated in this genre.
** There are also toxic plants that burn to the touch that are common in the jungle.
* TalkingAnimal: This is very different from the FriendToAllLivingThings, as it gives the animals their own agency. The problem is that this can often come off as too silly or cartoony. If the animals are given their own worldbuilt cultures and are made into good characters with good chemistry, like in ''Literature/TheJungleBook'', then this trope is more than welcome.
** Try to make the animals talk with the mind of the actual animal. ''Disney's Up'' understood that a dog will be obsessed with sent, squirrls and praising their master.
** A common variation from the RuleOFCool is when the Tarzanesque can understand the characters perfectly by tones and body language. (See SpeaksFluentAnimal in the Stunt Department)
** The prfessor making machines that allow for this is more than welcomed.
** Maybe the trope is played straight as a property of the LostWorld, similar to Narnia.
* VileVulture: Likely to hover over a LockedUpAndLeftBehind victim dying ExposedToTheElements
* WarElephants: A cool option at least the villains.
* WickedWasps: A must for the jungle.
* ZebrasAreJustStripedHorses: This is also more than welcome, but not entirely plausible.
** Ostriches are not only a good mount, but also the second fastest land animal.
** Quaggas used to be extinct but are theoretically an easier mount than a zebra.
** Giant birds are also a great option when they aren’t kidnapping you.
** BigCreepyCrawlies also can make an in interesting mount.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Stunt Department]]
The JungleOpera genre is full of daring feats,, acrobatics and dangerous stunts already, but a little bit of deconstruction or martial arts choreography would be a welcomed addition. Unfortunately, many aspects of these stunts have been used for AuthorAppeal or can be risky. It’s important to remember as a writer or director, that what is left unsaid or proper deconstruction can really intensify the danger of some of these stunts without appearing too problematic. Weather a stunt is utilized is ultimately up to the individual author and writer.
* AnimalAura: Great for a Shaman or even a Tarzanesque or BadassNative.
* AnimalTalk is common in this genre.
** Having characters understand animals or even humans though body language is always more than welcomed.
* AnimalThemedFightingStyle: Is required for the Tarzanesque. It makes a lot of sense in this setting o in general. For sure use some form of indigenous martial arts, and make it cool.
* AntiRegeneration: A good idea if you have NotQuiteHuman fantasy races with a HealingFactor. The villain might also refuse to regenerate [[SpitefuSuicide so the hero can’t save them.]]
* UsefulNotes/{{Archery}}: a common hunting and combat practice of the BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* AlwaysKnowAPilot: Common for a lot of characters in this genre, especially AdventurerArchaologist if they aren’t a pilot already.
* AllianceWithAnAbomination: The WitchDoctor is most likely to do this, but the EvilOverlord, EvilutionaryBiologist might try it as well. Even TheProfessor might have made this mistake.
* AwesomeByAnalysis: A must for any good JunglePrincess or TarzanBoy. Having them use their intellect, combined with their jungle hero standard issue hightened senses like enhanced smell, touch, hearing and sight are demanded by the RuleOfCool.
* [[PrefersGoingBarefoot Barefoot Running]] is almost considered an unwritten rule for any good TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess.
** It’s also an unwritten rule to use HandyFeet if you go this direction.
** For any frequent barefooter like the Tarzanesque, the sense of touch would actually become more acute due to the nerves being used constantly. So it pairs very nicely with AwesomeByAnalysis.
** Remember to use AgonyOfTheFeet if there is a change in lifestyle, as the jungle floor certainly has hazards like thorns, rocks, roots and insects and any barefoot runner can tell you that it takes months in a safe environment building up strength and thick skin before one can go barefoot consistently; possibly a year or more to endure such a hostile environment like a jungle properly.
** CombatStilettos: Should be Averted for a JunglePrincess dressing up for western society, as she is definitely spent her whole life as wearing very light footwear if not a full on barefooter. Therefore she would have trouble walking, much less running and fighting in high heels.
* BattleCry: The classic Tarzan yell has really lost its cool factor after the original novels, where it was a victory cry of a bull ape, but a more than welcomed alternative is to play this trope straight. Give your characters, especially the Tarzanesque and BadassNative an actual battle cry.
** Consider other subversions too. A JunglePrincess squealing with delight during a VineSwing for example.
* BattleInTheRain: It’s called the rainforest for a reason.
* BilingualBonus: A must due to the different languages and cultures.
* BoundAndGagged; Due to the theme of hunting fitting the aesthetic, the jungle is an excellent place to get captured or kidnapped, so this trope is pretty standard to happen to any Tarzanesque, AdventureArchaeologist or even TheMissionary.
** Due to the reality of human trafficking this trope can be very risky, so it’s best to be careful how scenes are framed in visual mediums and keep general descriptions brief.
** This is played pretty straight when a character is captured by the {{Outlaw}}.
** For a hostile tribe, it’s common for them to bind and publicly display a protagonist to interrogate them, [[StockPunishment for public humiliation or torture]] or simply for HollywoodNatives who have ComeToGawk.
** Another favorite in this genre is the TribalCarry.
** One interesting approach is to acknowledge real effects of being restrained. Side effects include, Constipation, Circulatory problems, Muscle Atrophy, Urinary Tract Infections, immobilized without bonds from being tied for so long and Depression.
** Consider alternatives. An EvilutionaryBiologist might use a CryoPrison Some RealLife cannibals broke limbs instead of bonding them.
** Please no AuthorAppeal. HumanTrafficking makes this trope risky enough.
* BottomlessBladder; (Subverted) Despite the name, this refers to the lack of bodily necessities in general that most fictional characters experience, such as no need for food, water, and sleep. Due to themes of survival in this genre, it’s basically an unwritten rule is that this should be subverted in this genre, as staying hydrated, finding food, finding a place to sleep without getting eaten and the like, are all interesting to explore in this genre.
** The extent to which a character, especially a Tarzanesque, hunts depends on both the personal beliefs of the author and the character. A character [[RaisedByWolves raised by animals]] might refuse to kill entirely and live off of plants seeing animals as equal to them, some might make exception for KillingInSelfDefense, others might hunt only out of necessity, others, especially a Tarzanesque like the animals around them, might hunt only for food, and others will hunt for money, usually morally grey and villainous characters. If your character lives off of plants, real world survival tips like rubbing a plant against the skin and waiting for an itch or rash to test for poison, or identifying different flora might be interesting.
** Quick survival tips include, drink long and deep like Kipling said; possible ways to get clean water are from streams, collecting rain or collecting dew, shelters should be built on elicited ground, campfire generally keeps predators like big cats away or even dangerous insects depending on fuel, This list goes on and is far too deep to cover here, so independent research is advised.
** Even the more literal subversion, the PottyEmergency, has been PlayedForLaughs in this genre; usually with a character who doesn’t understand survival skills yet.
* BreakingTheBonds: Is common, due to how common bonds are in this genre. Make sure there is a good amount of time between a character getting captured and escaping though. If the character is a PlayAlongPrisoner, they need to give the impression that they really are helpless, and if the character is BadassInDistress, they should actually be helpless for a while, so having them think their way out is much more exciting than them overpowering their bonds through brute force.
** You might opt for a ConvenientlyPlacedSharpThing instead.
** PetGetsTheKeys, is a welcomed alternative if your character has an ActionPet.
* BringHimToMe: A villain capturing the hero to bring them to their hideout, often as a plot device.
* [[BambooTechnology Bushcraft]]: Any good TarzanBoy, JunglePrincess or ActionSurvivor must be able to craft whatever tool they need by hand.
** Don’t be afraid of BambooTechnology. People have built some pretty insane things by hand in RealLife, much more so in fiction.
* TheCavalry: When the heroes friends, animal or human arrive at the last minute.
* ChainedToARock: This is everywhere in this genre. As mentioned before, getting captured is inevitable in the jungle so the BadassInDistress being fed to a hostile animal, monster, volcano or some other threat is very common. The purpose depends on who what villain is doing it to a captive.
** The EgomaniacHunter often uses this to turn people into bait, usually to lure out a rare animal or the local Tarzanesque.
** This is a common method of execution or HumanSacrifice for hostile tribes or any VestigialEmpire.
** It can also be use for BreadAndCircuses of a Corrupt Tribe or [[VestigialEmpire Lost Empire.]]
** It doesn’t always involve a dangerous animal attaching the protagonist. Villains often opt to let their captives [[ExposedToTheElements bake out under the hot equatorial sun]] This might even be a DeathTrap, in which case the hero will escape shortly after the villain Leaves.
* ChasedByAngryNatives: Why they are angry is totally up to the author, but avoiding risky stereotypes is strongly advised.
* CombatParkour: A must for any Tarzanesque or BadassNative. Might involve ArtisticLicensePhysics.
* CaughtInASnare and the InescapableNet is a common trap for unsuspecting adventurers.
* ColdBloodedTorture (and its many variations): Common by villains for various reasons. An {{Outlaw}} might interrogate the Tarzanesque for the location of something valuable like the AncientArtifact, a lost treasure or a rare animal. Tribal cults might use this on outsiders to convert them, to make the Tarzanesque kneel to a manipulative WitchDoctor cult leader or to punish those who speak out against him. Agents of TheEmpire like EvilColonialist and BananaRepublic have also been known to utilize this trope.
** This is very risky, but remember to tell not show here. This is especially effective as what is left unsaid or offscreen can be far more terrifying and interesting than anything shown directly.
** For mentioning things rather than showing them, authors commonly like to mention that this process involves as little physical harm to the victim as possible, allowing the villains to keep the victim alive completely or at least to kill them far slower. Authors will also sometimes mention that this can last for days or even weeks. These techniques are used to generate sympathy for the victim, however putting a time limit on how long it will be before the victim dies is a welcomed alternative to raise the stakes.
** Don't be afraid to get creative with this even if you leave things off scream. CreepyCrawlyTorture is fitting and terrifying for this genre. A character might eventually be [[AndIMustSCream And I Must Screamed.]] You WitchDoctor or EvilColonilaist might interrogate someone with an EldritchAbomonation to make them go insane. One might be tied to a fast growing tree in a way that slowly pulls them apart. Someone might be tied up under the hot sun to die slowly ExposedToTheElements. A WitchDoctor or similar character can use magic to trap their victim in a nightmare, slowing down their perception of time with the convenience of them being unconscious rather than bound. This can also be interesting since the torture continues after the rescue if the victim can't be awakened. Then there are all of the [[ATorturedIndex other tropes of psychological ways to torment characters]]. Again, there is more said when things are left unsaid, but don't let that stifle your creativity.
** Authors also have time to allow characters to heal after an escape. You can [[BigDamnReunion use hugs liberally]] to make this very wholesome.
** A villain can use this to lure out the Tarzanesque. Using their friends as bait as they are InterrogatedForNothing.
* ClothingDamage is very likely either early on in the story or for an EleventhHourCostumeChange..
* CryoPrison: The EvilutionaryBiologist probably uses this to preserve or even torture specimens. Also a common way for preserving the FrazettaMan from millennia or even eons in the past.
* TheDarkArts: The WitchDoctor obviously might dabble in this if they aren't merely manipulative, though no less terrifying.
* DeadlyHug: Primarily from, but not limited to, large snakes.
* DodgeTheBullet: Usually the Tarzanesque or BadassNative can do this because of the RuleOfCool.
* DualWielding: A possible fighting style that looks cool.
* DuelToTheDeath: Either between knives: and spears Tarzanesque vs. an evil BadassNative, Guns: {{Ranger}} vs. {{Outlaw}} or even [[WizardDuel Magic]]: Shaman vs. WitchDoctor.
* DragonRider: If you have DomesticatedDinosaurs or DinosaursAreDragons, this trope is more than welcomed, but please keep it a realistic and ethical relationship with an ActionPet [[HorseOfADifferentColor Mount]] Think How To Train Your Dragon, not James Cameron's Avatar.
* DramaticWind: RuleOFCool says use it liberally. Deconstructing it and adding the sound of wind in the trees to your NoisyNature is welcomed.
* [[EscapeArtist Escapology]]:You will want a little bit of this for at least your TarzanBoy or JunglePrincess. Most likely acquired through experience rather than official training.
* EleventhHourCostumeChange: When the Tarzanesque needs mobility for the battle in the third act.
* ElementalPowers can work well here, especially GreenThumb or {{Animorphism}}.
* EscapedAnimalRampage: A great plot device. Stampedes are also pretty dangerous.
* ExposedToTheElements: A general version of being exposed to the sunlight and insects is a common method of torturing and killing in this genre, but the cold aspect of this trope also applies. As mentioned before, the temperature of the jungle itself drops at night, more drastically the higher the elevation. Additionally, being from such a hot climate makes a Tarzanesque or Native character more vulnerable, as what we would consider room temperature would be very cold for them. Additionally, rain and streams would drop their temperature much more quickly.
* [[ScarilyCompetentTracker Extreme Tracking Skills]] for the [[GreatWhiteHunter Great White]] or EgomaniacHunter, but especially a must for any BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* FakedKidnapping: An interesting subversion in this genre, likely used to lure out or capture the Tarzanesque.
* FantasticSlurs: Might be really fun to play with. Even OhMyGods makes sense for the BadassNative or Tarzanesque.
* GladiatorGames: Having a fight to the death is a common form of BreadAndCircuses by a Hostile Tribe, VestigialEmpirer or even the EgomaniacHunter engaging in [[HumanTraffickers human trafficking]], but and it’s common for one’s opponent to be an regular innocent person. Sometimes in this genre, the two fighters will even [[FightingYourFriend know each other as friends from work.]]
* GladiatorRevolt: This is a possibility if your characters end up in the BreadAndCircuses of a VestigialEmpire.
* GunTwirling: a must for any good {{Outlaw}}, [[HiredGuns Hired Gun]] or a {{Ranger}} with a Big Iron on his hip.
* HeroesFightBarehanded: empty hand martial arts are more than welcomed.
* HiddenSuplies: If a Tarzanesque knows that particular part of the jungle well enough, having them hid weapons, tools and armor to use later could be cool.
* HollywoodVoodoo: Obviously for the WitchDoctor, but you might want to Avert this, as Worldbuilding a unique magic system with dangerous effects and monovalent entities is always more interesting and less risky.
* HappilyMarried: This is a much better alternative to the classic mates, as tribal communities not only have sexual taboos, but also marriage traditions like any other culture. Exploring these adds to their {{Worldbuilding}}.
* HarbingerOfAsskicking: There are many cool ways to set up a fight scene.
* HostileWeather: The jungle is known for this, especially during monsoon season.
* [[BigDamnReunion Hugs]]: For themes of loyalty friendship and family and a nice contrast to NatureIsNotNice.
* KidnappedByTheCall: While kidnapping is everywhere in the jungle itself, it might be used to bring the protagonist there.
* KidnappedForExperimentation: A favorite of the EvilutionaryBiologist.
* LanguageBarrier: This is important to take into account in this genre. Additionally, showing characters overcome this through observation is always interesting.
* LeParkour: Use it liberally as dictated by the RuleOfCool, but a more forest based version. Of course this include VineSwing and the previously mentioned CombatParkour. Also note that in the original Tarzan novels, the Lord of the Jungle was swinging from branch to branch rather than vine swinging. Might involve ArtisticLicensePhysics.
* LockedUpAndLeftBehind; A common means for disposing of a character leaving them BoundAndGagged to the mercy of the HungryJungle.
* LostLanguage: Commonly found written in the runes of the TempleOfDoom or RuinsForRuinsSake, or even spoken by the LostTribe.
** PrimordialTongue is a possible find in a LostTribe closely related to AncientAdvanceHumans, if not the ancient advanced humans themselves.
* HulkSpeak: is very risky. If the natives speak a language from RealLife, it should be translated completely, use subtitles, or use an authentic accent when speaking to non-native speakers. Accents involve much more than skipping pronouns and articles.
** This trope can be forgiven if utilized for {{Talking Animal}}s.
** A good subversion is to create your own fantasy language, like [[Franchise/TheLordOfTheRings Elvish]] or [[Franchise/StarTrek Klingon]].
** Another possibility is an English dialect, which is now a whole independent language, left over from the colonial age. Think Hawaiian Pigeon.
* HumanSacrifice: As well as VirginSacrifice, AppeaseTheVolcanoGod and every other subtrope are all common in this genre.
* InstantSedation because people get kidnapped so often, getting knocked out is also common. This is also a more welcome approach for a hunting character.
** They don’t have to knock people out. Temporarily paralyzing a victim would also be interesting.
** Try deconstructing this trope. The side effects of being knocked out can be pretty intense, and interesting to explore. As always, independent research is advised.
* KnifeFight: A must for any Tarzanesque.
* KnowTheRopes: Also a must for a Tarzanesque.
* KiteRiding: If you are using a lot of Bamboo Technology, a personal glider could be cool.
* KungFuWizatrd: Making your Shaman or WitchDoctor good at combat is more than welcomed.
* MacGyvering: A good choice for TheProfessor.
* MartialArtsAndCrafts: This is more than welcomed. Ranchers might use farming based martial arts for example.
* MeditatingUnderAWaterfall: or praying in the case of TheMissionary.
* MidairRepair: An AcePilot will probably attempt this.
* MindOverMatter: A good option for the Shaman, especially if the SpacePlane gets stuck somewhere.
* MindControl: The WitchDoctor might have some ability to do this.
* Necromancy: Another power the WitchDoctor might have.
* NeverLearnedToRead: This is common among members of the LostTribe, and possibly the BadassNative, but not limited to them.
** Just remember that literacy doesn't corollate to intelligence. If a character can't read, they should have other forms of intelligence like being very ingenuitive or AwesomeByAnalysis are excellent.
** Averting this with by {{Worldbuilding}} a complex tribal writing system with unique characters and phonetics, is more than welcomed.
* OldSchoolDogfight: If you have more than one CoolPlane, expect this to come up.
* ParachuteInATree: If an adventurer exits a flight early, they will probably end up like this.
* PistolWhipping: A form of InstantSedation likely used by villains when capturing a protagonist.
* PowerGlows like InstantRunes, VolcanicVeins, GlowingEyes and BattleAura are more than welcomed for the Shaman.
** They might even have PowerFloats.
* SaveTheVillain: Demonstrates the heroes' moral compass and can make a controversial villain far less risky by demonstrating their humanity.
** Just make sure the hero didn't kill outside of self defense or protecting others earlier in the plot, otherwise this comes off as out of character.
* SendInTheSearchTeam: NatureIsNotNice, so this is a really good idea for a stunt.
* SkyHiest: An adventurous outlaw will proably attempt this.
* SignatureMove: A cool way to make characters more unique is to give them their own fighting styles and preferred moves.
* SlaveLiberation: If you have human traffickers or a revolution plot, this will probably work well.
* SolveTheSoupCans: A must for any TempleOfDoom or AncientTomb.
* SpeaksFluentAnimal: A classic among Tarzanesque characters. RuleOfCool dictates that understanding an animal through body language and tone is best. Not only does this play into your Tarzanesque AwesomeByAnalysis, but it's much more realistic as many pet owners gain a similar skill through experience.
** This can be accelerated, if your character is scientifically minded, studying the mannerisms of his or her companions, like a stranded zoologist or something.
** TalkingAnimal is also common, but be careful not to make it too cartoony.
* SpectacularSpinning: This is welcomed by the RuleOfCool for fighting, traveling or in general making cool stunts. Just be careful not to overdo it.
** Yes, you can let the {{Ranger}} use a RoundhouseKick.
* SpitefulSuicide: Heroes killing a villain can be complicated, especially if they are part of a political Aesop, but sometimes the villain kills themself to win against a hero trying to SaveTheVillain.
* StarfishLanguage: Other languages are inevitable, but playing around with how weird they can get is welcomed.
* SuperSenses: This is a standard among the Tarzanesque. It plays into their AwesomeByAnalysis and is also a JustifiedTrope in several ways. Constant different smells will make their sense of smell more acute to detect danger, the various textures and shapes of the jungle floor would make their sense of touch more acute to avoid hazardous or unstable terrain, and their sense of hearing would become more acute to detect danger. As the old saying goes, “If you don’t use it, you loose it”, which applies to senses in RealLife.
** Keep in mind that this is a little bit of a curse rather than a blessing. Acute hearing means that loud or sudden sounds would be more uncomfortable, acute touch could make you more sensitive to temperature changes, and we can all guess the problems that come with acute smell. Exploring these negative side effects can be very interesting.
* SuperStrength: This is a classic ability among the Tarzanesque, but it’s best downplayed to peak human strength, since the Tarzanesque character often has to rely on their brain more than their bran, and giving these characters no actual supernatural abilities is much more exciting when danger strikes.
** This is especially true of the JunglePrincess. Giving her less brute force is not a weakness, but an obstacle to overcome through her mind and strategy, making her more interesting.
* SwordFight: This can play out in different ways. In an earlier colonial setting, you might get classic fencing from pirates or the evil colonialist. In an indiginous culture, this can involve actual swords like the Khmer Dha or Nigerian Ida. Even machetes have a blade on blade marital art, and of course the LaserBlade is a go to for more advanced technology.
** Remember to avoid {{Flynning}} in choreography. Of course you want it to look cool, but if the element of danger is lost in the process, it will probably have the opposite effect. Flourishes, WeaponTwirling and a SpinAttack are all still welcome, but when they are justified and make sense in real swordplay.
** ParryingBullets looks cool, so it might be forgivable, but use it sparingly.
** Do your own research and get inspiration from RealLife. {{Kenjutsu}} is one option for inspiration.
* TraintopBattle: A must if there are trains.
* TribalCarry: Commonly used by a LostTribe to transport prisoners, but there are variations to it.
** Consider alternatives, like marching the character bound at spear or gun point, forcing them to ride a mount, canoe or wooden cart back to the village, carrying the captive in general without tying them to a pole, carried in a large wooden frame over land or between canoes instead of tied to a pole, having them DraggedByTheCollor and even having a character’s arms [[CrucifiedHeroShot outstretched and tied to a wooden yoke or beam]] but letting them still walk so the character can be paraded through a village in front of their enemies (like in Tarzan’s Fight For Life), all are more than welcomed alternatives.
** They might opt for ShippedInShackles, either by trade or metallurgy. Many African tribes for example, were actually the first humans to use iron, so this makes sense.
** Having a group of EgomaniacHunters use the TribalCary instead is also welcomed.
* UnwillingSuspension: Because of the RuleOFCool, having the wrists or the entire body suspended is very common for a HumanSSacrifice, ChainedToARock, for displaying a character for [[StockPunishment Public Humiliation]], or even just keeping a character BoundAndGagged,
** This is often used to lower characters into lava, acid or piranha infested waters.
** Usually asphyxiation or other problems this trop presents don’t apply, but subverting or justifying this trope is more than welcome.
** One possibility is actual crucifixion, as a method of execution. It can also be implemented by the evil colonialists to execute people for treason.
* VineSwing: This and swinging from branches in general is a common way for the Tarzanesque to get around the jungle quickly.
** Try [[SpectacularSpinning spicing it up with some flips]]
** Alternatives are always welcome. Indiana Jones used his whip for example.
** If you play this trope straight, think more Spider-Man stunts than Tarzan ones.
** Expect ArtisticLicensePhysics, which is more than welcomed.
* WallCrawl: Running across a wall is part of parkour.
* WaterfallShower: Cleaning oneself under a waterfall.
* WeCanRuleTogeather: This is a more than welcomed subversion for the WitchDoctor. Instead of kidnapping and torturing a character like the Tarzanesque, they might offer them a place at their side subtly with a promise of power to help those they care about and LetMeTellYouAStory.
* WeaponTwirling: A character fidgeting with their weapons in a cool looking way.
* WithMyHandsTied: Fighting with hands restrained must for a Tarzanesque BadassInDistress and can be cool for the ActionSurvivor.
* ZombifyTheLiving: Another evil scheme or ability of the WitchDoctor.
[[/folder]]
[[folder:Director's Chair]]
* AfricanChant: (Or something similar) is great for an epic soundtrack, but can also be sung in tribal traditions.
* BackgroundMusic: It's important to take the score seriously and use meaningful motifs and themes in an auditory medium. This is also one of the first things you will want to focus on when trying to make your work distinct, as music is a powerful part of storytelling that can connect with the audience in a much more meaningful and emotionally rich way. While JungleJazz is common, you will want to pick instruments and styles that focus less on fitting the setting and more on properly conveying emotions like isolation, terror, grand scale and the like.
** You can see the significance of music in other genres compared to this genre. If one were to mention a tight knit earthy community, you probably wouldn’t think of the lost tribe, but [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CL_3mlOPnGI&pp=ygUVY29uY2VybmluZyBob2JpdHMgb3N0 The Shire]] might give you the warm and fuzzies. If one were to mention oppression, tyranny, taking land by force, your mind might go to [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7HF4JG1pOg&pp=ygUSaW1wZXJpYWwgbWFyY2ggb3N0 this march]] instead of The British Empire, the Spanish Empire or perhaps even the Nazis, despite all of their atrocities. No one remembers even the name of the Shaman that raised Sheena, but you probably know [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9C8J-jhMtRA&pp=ygULeW9kYXMgdGhlbWU%3D this mentor]]. You probably don’t know any of the countless witch doctors and cultists Tarzan has battled, but you if someone mentioned manipulation, dark magic, without mercy, you might think of [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvMtMfIr-sU&pp=ygUVcGFscGF0aW5lJ3MgdGhlbWUgb3N0 this instead.]] While Professor Porter was much more enjoyable in the Disney adaptation, he’s probably not who you would think of if one were to mention [[https://youtu.be/komb7TaF-6o?si=chXNe3ckl-YIrPjo quick witted adventuring scientist.]] This is because of how these tracks are used as themes. They connect with the audience in a very unique way through repetition and tone.
* [[SceneryPorn Detailed Beautiful Scenery]]: Tropical rainforests are some of the most beautiful locations on earth. Utilize romantic and descriptive imagery.
** Utilize AwesomeByAnalysis as a means of immersion in the beautiful setting.
* BulletTime: A possible way to invoke the RuleOfCool in a fight scene. Although matrix parodies got old very quickly by the late 90s, to this day next to no one has used this in this genre.
* ISpeakFluentAnimal: Although this was already mentioned in the Stunt Department, there is also an out of universe aspect that applies. If your Tarzanesque can understand animals, than those animals should be allowed to be expressive enough so that the audience can understand them completely too without subtitles or voice over.
** WesternAnimation/{{SpiritStallionOfTheCimarron}} did this so well, the human voiceover is often view as a flaw that takes away from the expressive animals.
* JungleDrums: can often be heard in the background.
* JungleJazz: This can work in the background of certain places like the LocalHangout.
** Jazz in general should be present in a DieselPunk story.
* FolkMusic is actually a deeply complex and culturally rooted thing, It's also an often neglected, but very important factor in {{Worldbuilding}}, which is why Kipling had so many songs to flesh out his cultures in the Jungle Book. This trope is a must for any LostTribe or even for their descendants in a local small town. Usually these are used to for conveying history, legends or culturally significant stories. They also might be about the hope and dreams or religious beliefs of a culture.
** JobSong: This is great for fleshing out the employees of EvilColonialist, the lives of slaves or even the life of a VenturousSmuggler or {{Pirate}} group. People often used music historically correlating to their professions, such as the sea shanty.
** It can also be used to flesh out a character. The VenturousSmuggler might be a Music lover like Peter Quill for example or TheMissionary might have a favorite hymn.
** Even TheMusical can work well in this genre, but it's a complicated and very hit or miss, so if the director doesn't take it seriously or doesn't work in music seamlessly, it's going to be a miss. See ''WesternAnimation/{{TheLionKing1994}}'' for an example of singing animals done well, for an example of singing jungle dwelling humans done well, see ''WesternAnimation/{{Moana}}'
** Some areas in the Amazon and Congo close enough to civilization might have local radio. This can be an interesting to play around with.
* NoisyNature is a must. (Not the misplaced JunglesSoundLikeKookaburras) Using the sounds of real tropical birds, insects, growls and rustling waterfalls is very mesmerizing and fits perfectly with the scenery.
* NoSuchThingAsDehydration: (Subverted) If you are a game designer, adding thirst is a realistic and interesting limitation for the player. Also allowing water to be poisonous or hazardous can help add difficulty.
[[/folder]]
