Elisa Before the End of the World

Elisa is a resourceful teenager whose family is overwhelmed by debt. She steps into riskier schemes to help her family survive, showing determination but also a willingness to cross moral lines. Her arc culminates in a tragic act during a bank robbery, highlighting the cost of desperation.

Miguel is Elisa’s younger neighbor and friend who becomes swept up in her plans. He is loyal and curious, growing into a witness to the violence surrounding them. He survives the events but is left mourning the loss of his friends at the end.

Paco is a punk kid who hangs around the rooftop and becomes involved in Elisa’s schemes. He represents a reckless option and is ultimately killed during the bank robbery, marking the dangers of their improvised plans.

Gómez is a bank employee who visits Elisa’s family to discuss their debt, illustrating the power of financial institutions over personal lives. His presence foreshadows the collision between personal desperation and systemic pressure.

Elisa’s father is the driver of the family’s debt, explaining that debt and potential loss loom large if payments are not made. He sells the television and a gun to raise money, capturing the strain and fear impacting the family unit.

Elisa’s mother shares the burden of the family’s financial crisis, offering support while navigating the threat of losing their home. Her role anchors the emotional core of the family’s struggle and resilience.

Miguel’s mother is part of the surrounding family network, providing context for the community that supports Elisa and Miguel. Her presence helps ground the story in a broader social fabric.