My Common Application essay about a character in fiction that has had an influence on me was about a Sailor Moon character named Rini.
So far with that essay, I've gotten into Grinnell with their highest merit scholarship as well as Miami (OH), and a letter from the College of William and Mary stating how much they liked reading it.
If it doesn't frazzle too many nerves, I'd say go for it! You never know what may happen.