Prison Song

A bright, perceptive 10-year-old living in New York who loves drawing and asks questions about the world. He navigates poverty with curiosity and resilience, forming a close bond with his fiancé-to-be Cee through hardship. His intelligence and sensitivity hint at the adult artist he will become.

An aspiring artist who dreams of attending a prestigious art school but struggles to afford tuition. He discovers painting as a means of escape and self-expression while facing confinement and moral conflict. His journey from prisoner to gallery-worthy work underscores the power of art to survive oppression.

A hard-working mother who toils in night classes with the goal of becoming a lawyer, raising Elijah with resolve despite financial hardship. Her ambitions reflect a belief in education as a route out of poverty. After a violent incident, she is swept into a mental institution, illustrating the personal costs of systemic stress.

A photographer and devoted partner who supports Elijah and anchors the family during tough times. His arrest marks a turning point, underscoring how external judgment and policing alter lives. He remains a symbol of care and complexity in Elijah’s world.

Elijah's best friend who navigates juvenile life with the hope of a better future. His relationship with Elijah is pivotal, and his subsequent fate in prison highlights the fragility of friendship under pressure. He embodies loyalty and tragedy within the system.

A foster brother figure whose presence underscores the vulnerability of Elijah’s circle. His death on the subway tracks becomes a catalyst for remorse and a turning point in Elijah's moral calculus. The character serves as a stark reminder of costs of the streets.

An inmate who plays a volatile role in the escape plan, driven by a mix of loyalty and resentment. His actions intensify the danger inside the jail and accelerate the climactic confrontation. He embodies the volatile, survivalist mindset present in the prison environment.