From the Life of the Marionettes

A married man tormented by homicidal thoughts and tensions around his wife. He confesses to the coroner about his fantasies targeting Katarina and, in a moment of breakdown, murders a prostitute named Ka. The crime triggers a legal and psychological unraveling, ending with his confinement to a mental institution. His inside life reveals a volatile mix of desire, jealousy, and repressed anger.

A career-oriented wife who keeps an open relationship, seeking others while remaining married to Peter. She dismisses warnings about Peter's dangerous thoughts and focuses on work during a busy season. Her volatile dynamic with Peter and her aggressive approach to the marriage contribute to the emotional climate that leads to tragedy.

Peter's friend who is shocked by the murder and reveals Peter's admission of homicidal thoughts to the coroner. He advised Katarina to leave town, and his cautious interpretation stands in contrast to the dramatic outcome. His perspective highlights how easily perceived signs can be overlooked in a volatile marriage.

Katarina's business partner and friend who acknowledges his own desires for Peter and admits his role in introducing Peter to Ka. He grapples with guilt over the consequences and a complicated dynamic of affection and manipulation within the group. His actions illuminate how hidden longings can contribute to a chain of tragic events.

The coroner who interrogates Peter's circle to uncover motive and truth behind the murder. He methodically questions Tim and Jensen, building a case from conflicting testimonies. His examination reveals how personal histories and relationships intersect with crime and punishment.

A prostitute whom Peter murders; she initially tells Peter her name is Katarina, mirroring Peter's wife and triggering a fatal emotional breakdown. Her presence externalizes Peter's conflict between fantasy and reality and becomes the catalyst for the tragedy.