Angel

Fifteen-year-old honor student by day, Molly becomes Angel at night, a streetwise prostitute on Hollywood Boulevard. She navigates a dangerous world while balancing school and family obligations, and her resilience drives her to seek justice for Mae. Her love for her makeshift family keeps her tethered to a dangerous city, even as she hardens to survive.

An aging film cowboy who acts as a surrogate mentor within the street family. He provides protection, street wisdom, and a sense of history, even as he struggles with aging and hardship. He teams with Lt. Andrews to track the killer while looking out for Molly and her friends.

The landlady and eccentric painter who offers shelter to Molly and her friends. She forms part of the emotional core of the street family, providing warmth and a home base amid danger. Her presence anchors Molly’s sense of belonging on the shifting streets.

An aging drag performer and landlady-like figure who acts as a motherly guide for Molly. She provides humor and care within the street family, ultimately sacrificing herself in the struggle against the killer. Her death marks a turning point that strengthens Molly’s resolve.

A Los Angeles police lieutenant assigned to the case who pursues leads and tries to keep Molly safe. He represents the law and moral gravity in a city where justice is hard-won. He collaborates with Molly and Carson to bring the killer to justice.

A street performer who forms part of the street family, providing entertainment and a sense of communal belonging. His quirky presence adds color to the group and helps show the variety of street life. He shares in the dangers and camaraderie of their world.

A fellow prostitute who shares a room with Angel and contributes to the group’s dynamics. Her presence underscores the competition and peril of street life, and she becomes a victim of the killer like Crystal later in the story.

Molly’s teacher who worries about her extracurricular life and tests Molly’s pull between school and street existence. She represents the external pressure that pushes Molly toward secrets and danger. Her visit to Molly’s apartment heightens the confrontation with the killer.