A Prize of Gold

A pragmatic Master Sergeant stationed in postwar Berlin who is drawn to Maria. He wrestles with the pull between his duty and his growing love, driving him to challenge Hans’s authority. His decisions propel the hijack plan and its dangerous consequences, culminating in a return to Berlin for a court-martial. Despite the flaws exposed, he remains fiercely determined to protect those he cares about.

Caretaker of the German orphans who dreams of taking them to Brazil for a fresh start. Her relationship with Joe complicates her obligations to her employer, Hans Fischer. She eventually becomes a symbol of hope for the children, even as the path to Brazil remains fraught with danger. Her choices reflect resilience in a fractured postwar world.

A successful German contractor who employs Maria and orchestrates aspects of the travel plan. He urges Joe not to return and resists involvement, serving as a practical antagonist to the hijacking scheme. Hans embodies the postwar capitalist opportunist who navigates power and influence in a shattered landscape.

Semi-retired crook who wants to dispose of the stolen gold through the hijack. He pushes the plan forward but later shows regret for returning to crime, signaling the pull between gain and conscience. His involvement ties the plot to a human cost, as trust frays and alliances shift.

Ex-RAF pilot enlisted to safeguard the plan, willing to murder to secure the gold. He is a major obstacle to the protagonists and plays a pivotal role in the pursuit's escalation. After being faced with a new arrangement, he engages in a fatal attempt that ends with his death during the final chase.

British Military Police sergeant who hints at stealing a fortune and becomes entangled in the scheme. He participates in the plan but meets his end in the climactic confrontation as the operation spirals out of control. His presence highlights the blurred lines between duty and desire for personal gain.

Dan acts as a conduit between the criminal circle and the plan to hijack the gold. He provides connections that move the plot forward but remains more a facilitator than a primary driver. His involvement underscores the film’s theme of how family ties can entangle people in dangerous schemes.