Even though I’m writing a paper about it, I chose to do this as I see connections with characters from BoJack Horseman to the Great Gatsby. Most of the connection are similar and have both characters be connected one way or another, but we must also state the differences in it.
BoJack:
One of the obvious connection is Gatsby as they’re both wealthy and are clinging to the past. BoJack is idealizing his past of being a popular actor back in the 90s while Gatsby is idealizing his lost love, Daisy. They also throw parties to fill the void of loneliness as they are disconnected from reality. I also see some Tom Buchanan in him as his reckless behavior causes to hurt the people around him and also emotional manipulate people, even in relationship. However, what makes him different from Tom is that he’s self-aware of his actions and feels guilty and wanted to do redeem himself.
Diane Nguyen:
Another connection is Nick Carraway. Even though Nick was the main character of the novel, he was the observer of the story. It’s the same for Diane as she is BoJack’s ghostwriter for his autobiography book. Both of them believe there’s goodness of the main character even though they’re disappointed with their actions. There’s also a bit of Daisy Buchanan in her as she had her own problems with romantic relationship, Daisy’s marriage was built on security but Diane’s relationship felt shallow and ended in a divorce. They’re also symbol in one’s eye, like how Gatsby sees Daisy as a key to happiness. What’s different for BoJack is that he sees Diane as someone who truly understands him, but rather be a true friend than a symbol.
Todd Chavez:
This connection is a bit strange but there’s a connection with Owls Eye. Similar to Diane and Nick, they’re outside observer, except Todd and Owls Eyes are observing the chaos around them, however, it doesn’t affect them. Todd doesn’t chase wealth and fame as he’s unaffected and wanted find his own happiness in a different way. Beside his care-free nature and his “laziness”, he’s also the voice of reason as he call out BoJack for his action, which is why I see some Nick Carraway in him.
Sarah-Lynn:
This character Sarah-Lynn is completely different for the character I connect with Myrtle Wilson. Sarah-Lynn was a former child star that follows in the child star curse while Myrtle Wilson was a lower class women that had an affair with Tom. However, what they both have in common is that they’re both tragic characters and how their death could’ve been prevented. Myrtle died from getting hit by Daisy and it could’ve been prevented if there wasn’t a lot of miscommunication. Sarah-Lynn died from an overdose in arms of BoJack and it could’ve been prevented if she didn’t relapsed and have BoJack get to hospital on time. What is also different from Myrtle is that Sarah-Lynn’s death play a key role in the final season.
Mr. Peanutbutter:
“What is this? A crossover episode?” There are connection to Tom Buchanan despite their differences. They’re both wealthy as Tom Buchanan inherited the money while Mr. Peanutbutter earned the money. They’re both charismatic but the differences is that Tom is entitled while Peanutbutter is likeable and happy go lucky. They’re a rival and obstacle to the main character with Gatsby vs. Tom for Daisy and BoJack vs. Peanutbutter for Diane. Tom was controlling in his relationship while Peanutbutter keeps being in relationship without understand his partner’s need, causing him to repeat the same mistake. They both don’t grow and question their behavior as it causes a cycle without a reflection.
