Hell on Frisco Bay

A former policeman who is released after an unjust manslaughter conviction. He relentlessly seeks proof to clear his name and restore his reputation, navigating mistrust from those around him. His stubborn sense of justice strains his marriage, yet he remains driven to confront the mob’s influence on the city’s docks.

A racketeering mob boss who controls the dock operations and tries to flee the country. Cunning and dangerous, he uses his power to manipulate people and cover his tracks. He becomes the central antagonist whom Steve must outsmart to restore justice.

Steve's wife who admits to infidelity during his prison absence. She explains her loneliness and attempts to justify her actions, creating tension between forgiveness and suspicion. Her choices impact Steve's trust as he pursues the truth.

Steve's loyal police friend who supports him in his quest for exoneration. He becomes a crucial ally and ultimately takes decisive action against the mob, including killing a key henchman. His steadfastness anchors Steve’s fight against corruption.

A henchman for Amato who is torn between following orders and his own emotions. He is in love with Kay Stanley and is angered by Amato's misconduct, ultimately becoming a catalyst for key violent events as he carries out dangerous tasks.

Amato's wife, who endures the turmoil caused by her husband’s criminal life. She provides Steve with crucial information about Amato, helping to guide the pursuit of justice. Her actions reflect the personal costs of crime within the mob’s orbit.

Amato's mild-mannered nephew who becomes a source of information for Steve. He represents a potential link to the mob’s inner workings but is ultimately targeted in the violent world his uncle dominates.

The dock leader who is being pushed out by Amato. His death, along with Rogani's, marks the brutal consequences of mob power in the waterfront world. He embodies the instability of leadership under criminal control.

One of Amato's henchmen who carries out orders with limited moral regard. He is killed during the climax, underscoring the lethal stakes of standing against organized crime.

A detective whose loyalty is compromised by Amato’s influence. His murder at the hands of Lye highlights the total reach of mob corruption and the danger faced by those who resist it.

A clergyman figure who anchors the community amid chaos. His presence adds a moral counterpoint to the violence surrounding the waterfront power struggles.

A member of the mob’s circle connected to the Pasmonick name. He is part of the wider web of relationships that sustain Amato’s operations.

An actress and the object of Lye’s affection, whose relationship with him is complicated by jealousy and danger. Her presence ties romance and crime together in the film’s social milieu.