Mississippi Mermaid

A wealthy tobacco plantation owner on Réunion who becomes enthralled with Julie and then entangled with Marion’s scheme. His trust and romantic idealism drive the plot, yet he proves capable of violence in the name of protection—and of choosing love over safety. His health deteriorates as the chase intensifies, and he ultimately forgives Marion before they flee again.

The bride-to-be whose photo is used to win Louis’s trust. She embodies the glamorous dream of a life of luxury, yet remains mostly a catalyst for the plot’s deception. Her choice to pursue happiness under challenging circumstances tests moral boundaries and loyalty.

The impostor whose past as a prisoner and accomplice of a ruthless gangster drives the theft and deception. She professes love for Louis and contemplates a life of honesty, ultimately wavering between crime and redemption. Her evolving feelings form the emotional core of the second act.

Private detective hired to track down the impostor. He pursues truth through lies and red herrings, escalating the tension as Louis and Marion’s schemes spiral outward. His pursuit ends violently in a confrontation that accelerates the couple’s flight.

Julie’s sister who pushes for answers about Julie’s whereabouts, triggering the discovery of the impostor. Her insistence on the truth sets the chase in motion and complicates the lovers’ fragile arrangement.

Heartless gangster who collaborates with Marion in the original plot to replace Julie. He uses coercion and deception to secure wealth and power, then abandons Marion to her fate. His presence frames the moral stakes of Marion’s later choices.

Louis’s business partner who is unaware of the impostor’s plan until it reaches its climax. He represents the world of commerce that underpins Louis’s lifestyle and complicates the investigation through financial ties.

The detective pursuing the impostor, whose arrival on the trail adds pressure to the lovers’ flight. His presence enforces moral consequences even as the pursued characters seek sanctuary.