Paulie

A blue-crowned conure who speaks with surprising clarity. He starts as a sharp-tongued captive at the American institute and resists being treated as laboratory property. His journey with Ivy, Misha, and others reveals his longing for freedom and for a true home with Marie. The emotional arc centers on his evolving understanding of loyalty, family, and self-determination.

A Russian immigrant who works at the institute and befriends Paulie. He is moved by Paulie’s story and ultimately aids in freeing him and pursuing Marie. He shows moral courage by resisting the system when Reingold's deception is revealed. His unlikely alliance anchors the human side of Paulie's voyage.

Widowed artist who buys Paulie to reform his behavior, becoming his caretaker and companion. She shares her own vulnerability and helps him navigate the road to Marie. She forms a strong bond with Paulie and sacrifices her safety for him. Her kindness catalyzes Paulie’s growth and his decision to seek Marie.

Marie's father and a returning soldier who initially doubts Paulie's influence on his daughter. His protective instinct leads him to separate Paulie from Marie, believing the bond may mislead her reality.

Head of the research institute; a skilled but unscrupulous scientist who treats Paulie as property. He hides Marie's whereabouts to keep Paulie in the lab, revealing his manipulative motivations when Paulie confronts him. He becomes an antagonist whose cruelty motivates the rescue.

Marie grows from a stuttering child to a young woman living in Los Angeles. She becomes the person Paulie longs to reunite with, her identity tied to the song her mother sang. The reunion scene emphasizes the power of memory and recognition across years.

Mexican migrant musician who owns a group of conures; he offers Paulie temporary belonging in East LA's bird performances. He later becomes entangled with Benny's plot but remains a kind mentor figure and facilitator for Paulie's new path.

Shady buyer who believes Paulie's talking ability can be monetized. He kidnaps Paulie during a performance and later abandons him, contributing to Paulie's imprisonment and escape.

Marie’s mother; referenced through memories and songs, her presence shapes Paulie and Marie's emotional landscape even when she is not on screen.