Legionnaire

A French boxer who refuses to throw a fix and instead fights to win. His decision sparks a chain of betrayal and pursuit that leads him into the French Foreign Legion. Across the film, he evolves from a fleeing lover into a hardened survivor who must confront both enemies and the consequences of his past.

Alain’s former fiancée who forgives him and schemes to flee to America together. Her alliance with Alain reflects themes of partnership and longing for a freer life, even as danger closes in around them.

A mobster who coerces Alain into a fixed fight and sends hired thugs to capture him. His influence creates a perpetual threat, illustrating how crime and power manipulate vulnerable men.

A former British Army major with a gambling past who is secretly sent to eliminate Alain to reimburse his father’s debts. His revelation and remorse add a moral conflict to the pursuit, highlighting the cost of debts and loyalty.

An African-American recruit fleeing injustice in the United States, seeking a better life in Africa. He forms bonds with the others, infiltrates the Berber camp on a dangerous mission, and ultimately sacrifices himself in the defense of his comrades.

An Italian recruit eager to return home as a hero. His naive enthusiasm contrasts with the brutal realities of desert warfare, culminating in tragedy during the ambush.

Leader of the Rif Berber resistance who embodies the fight against colonial domination. His presence frames the conflict as a struggle for autonomy and dignity against overwhelming odds.

Group of hired men sent by Lucien Galgani to track down Alain within the Legion, representing the reach of organized crime into military life.