Mystery Street

Massachusetts State Police Detective Peter Moralas leads the case, coordinating with medical examiners and witnesses. He is methodical, patient, and persistent, gradually peeling back layers of deceit. His steady approach contrasts with the more volatile actions of others, guiding the investigation toward the truth.

A brassy, alluring B-girl whose disappearance triggers the murder investigation. Vivian’s social maneuvering and ambiguous loyalties push others to react—sometimes to their detriment. She embodies the film’s theme of appearance versus reality.

Harkley is the reluctant beau whose actions and denial draw investigators into a web of suspicion. He untreatedly clashes with the truth, and his alibi is scrutinized as part of the case. His reactions reveal the pressure of being caught in a compromising situation.

Shanway appears as an innocent man entangled in the crime via his stolen car and involvement with Vivian. He is portrayed as naïve and overwhelmed by events, ultimately vindicated as the real circumstances come to light. His experience anchors the human cost of the investigation.

The conniving landlady who blackmails and meddles, seizing the gun and manipulating others. Her scheming widens the conflict and raises stakes for everyone involved. Her eventual confrontation with Harkley heightens the narrative tension.

A forensic doctor at Harvard Medical School who analyzes the skeleton and helps identify Vivian. His work provides the scientific backbone of the investigation and seals the link between bones and truth. He represents the era’s rising reliance on medical expertise in crime solving.

Vivian’s housemate and friend who eventually reports Vivian missing, contributing crucial information to the case. Her involvement underscores how personal networks influence the flow of evidence. She acts as a bridge between the victims and investigators.

Grace Shanway is the wife recovering from a miscarriage, whose existence frames the investigation’s emotional stakes. Her presence adds human tragedy to the procedural drama and connects personal loss to the public investigation.