Querelle

Owner of La Feria, Lysiane runs the bar and brothel that serves the sailors' needs and secrets. She maintains control through alliances with Nono and the underworld, while harboring a private romance with Robert. Her world begins to crack as Querelle's schemes intersect with her own ambitions and heartbreak.

A Belgian sailor who navigates crime, desire, and manipulation. He murders Vic Rivette to secure drugs, deliberately loses a dice game to sleep with Lysiane, and then falls for Gil, while orchestrating plans that betray those around him. His charm masks a ruthless, calculating nature, and his bond with Gil complicates loyalties.

A shipbuilder who murders his coworker Theo after being harassed, and who becomes the object of Querelle's affection. Gil's vulnerability and quiet resolve contrast with the violence around him, and Querelle's desire to protect him clashes with the law.

Lysiane's lover and Querelle's brother in the film's web of relationships. The two brothers share a complicated bond that is tested by conflict, deceit, and the truth that they may not actually be brothers.

An accomplice who collaborates with Querelle in drug dealings and who is murdered by Querelle during the course of the plan. Vic's fate highlights the film's themes of loyalty and betrayal.

Lysiane's husband, who works behind the bar and oversees La Feria's illicit affairs with Mario's help. He wields a privileged role in the sexual and criminal economy of the port and is a central facilitator of the underworld.

The corrupt police captain who assists in the illicit operations surrounding La Feria. He embodies the confluence of law and crime in this port town.

Theo is a fellow worker on the ship who harassed and sexually assaulted Gil, provoking Gil to murder him. Theo's presence underscores the volatile power dynamics and the violence that erupts from harassment and fear.