Heartbeat

A runaway from reform school who uses clever theft to survive, Arlette schemes her way into high society by posing as a baron’s niece. She is audacious, resourceful, and willing to bend rules to secure a future, though her heart remains tied to Pierre. Her street-smarts clash with formal etiquette, driving much of the film’s tension and charm.

A charming, impulsive man who falls for Arlette despite his initial jealousy. He is guided by a mix of romantic longing and concern for reputation, which creates tension when Arlette’s schemes intersect with his ambitions. His affection grows, culminating in a grand, committed proposal.

Runs the Paris school for pickpockets and tests his pupils’ honesty with calculated elegance. He is controlling, perceptive, and his expertise in deception shapes the world Arlette navigates. He embodies the fine line between pedagogy and criminal craft.

A sophisticated aristocrat who collaborates with the ambassador to stage a niece-claim and navigate social scheming. His presence signals the elite’s complicity in manipulation and his influence helps propel Arlette’s plans. He embodies old-world privilege used to advance personal schemes.

A pupil of Aristide's school who later serves as a butler in Geneva, using his wit to support Arlette’s plan. He represents the cunning helpers behind the scenes who keep the deception moving. His role highlights the border between servitude and agency in the plot.

Pierre’s penniless friend who becomes a faux-husband to Arlette in a bid to secure money. He embodies willingness to participate in social gambits for survival, creating humorous and tense moments. His schemes test the limits of loyalty and love.

A well-dressed diplomat whose interests intersect with Arlette’s deception. He orchestrates or tolerates the arrangement at the receptions and tests his wife’s patience, providing a backdrop of power and influence to the plot. His presence reveals the thin line between charm and manipulation in diplomacy.

A social figure who senses trouble when her husband’s secrets and Arlette’s presence complicate the diplomatic circle. She confronts the possibility of infidelity or deceit at the ball, highlighting the fragility of reputations in high society. Her reaction helps drive the tension at the reception.

A government official who is charmed by Arlette at the final embrace of the plot, lending legitimacy to the marriage and ending the web of tricks. He serves as the symbol of authority that is won over by love and sincerity. His presence closes the circle of diplomacy and personal risk.