None But the Lonely Heart

A restless, independent Cockney musician with perfect pitch. He seeks a life beyond being pursued or exploiting others, torn between love, duty to his dying mother, and the temptations of crime. His journey traces a fragile balance between personal integrity and desperation sparked by poverty.

The fickle former wife of a gangster who juggles romance with practical concerns. She resists Ernie’s advances at first, then makes choices that reflect a longing for security, even as she remains entangled with Mordinoy. Her presence catalyzes Ernie’s conflict between affection and pragmatic life choices.

Ernie’s mother, who reveals a cancer diagnosis and runs a pawnbroker shop. Her illness drives Ernie to reconsider his path and stay to help, ending tragically when she dies after being incarcerated. Her struggle anchors the film’s emotional core and highlights family duty amid hardship.

A fellow musician who appears outside a bar, representing a doorway to companionship and a different kind of connection. She becomes a fixture in Ernie’s life as he navigates choices between love, loyalty, and a safer path. Her presence culminates in a quiet, unresolved farewell as events unfold.

A gangster whose world entices Ernie to join criminal activity. He embodies the lure of quick power and wealth, challenging Ernie’s resolve and testing his moral lines. His influence catalyzes Ernie’s foray into theft and the ensuing consequences.

A pawnbroker friend with practical savvy who steps in to support Ernie and his mother. He acts as a stabilizing force, guiding Ernie toward family commitments and offering aid during crises. Ike’s pragmatic sense helps anchor the family when trouble arises.

A father figure whose memory looms large as a casualty of war. His presence is felt through the memorial in Westminster Abbey and the weight of his absence on Ernie’s choices. The war’s legacy shapes Ernie’s search for purpose and belonging.

A member of the London underworld whose presence underscores the criminal milieu surrounding Ernie. His role hints at the broader network of crime that threatens Ernie’s path, without detailing his exact actions in the narrative.

Duplicate entry retained for completeness with character Aggie Hunter, a fellow musician who becomes part of Ernie’s emotional landscape.