Dangerous to Know

A gangster and former bootlegger who wields city-wide influence over politics and business. He is ambitious to climb the social ladder, using bribery and threats to keep the mayor and bank in his pocket. He thrives on manipulation, playing competing interests against each other.

The city’s mayor who is deeply entangled with Recka’s criminal network. He is susceptible to bribery and political pressure, symbolizing the corruptibility of politics. He serves as both an ally and a pawn to maintain control over urban development.

An honest, incorruptible police inspector who pursues Recka’s eight murders despite weak evidence. He represents the moral counterweight to the criminal elite and him orchestrating the pursuit of truth.

A powerful figure whose criminal ingenuity fuels his ascent in politics. He uses charm and threats to manipulate others and implements schemes to consolidate control. He underestimates Lan Ying’s intelligence and ultimately meets a calculated downfall.

Hostess of Recka’s birthday party and a sharp observer of social dynamics. She warns Recka when his reach surpasses safe limits, and ultimately sacrifices her own safety to protect others.

A bond salesman whose trust is earned by Recka but who becomes a pawn in the deception. He is framed and later freed, representing the vulnerable middle-ground between crime and justice.

A member of the town’s first family who is drawn to Recka’s promises of social ascent, yet remains morally aware and vows contempt for him even as she accepts his help.

A city councillor who wants to become mayor, manipulated into writing a suicide note and later dies in a fall. His downfall underscores the perilous nature of political scheming.