Ransom!

A wealthy, protective father who initially handles the crisis within the family circle. He makes a bold choice on live television to refuse the ransom, turning the case into a public moral test and ultimately banking on the kidnapper being captured. His emotional arc centers on fear for his son and a willingness to risk financial loss for justice.

The anxious, determined mother who fights to protect her son. She reacts with fury to threats against Andy and the idea of paying the ransom, revealing a fierce protective instinct. Her turmoil underlines the domestic strain caused by crime and the limits of control.

A resourceful, adventurous boy who becomes the kidnapping's focal point. He demonstrates courage and resilience, building a fort with friends and managing to survive the ordeal. His safety is the emotional center for the family’s crisis.

A bold newspaper reporter who pushes for access to the Stannards' story. His presence in the home adds tension and external scrutiny, highlighting media intrusion into private tragedy. He embodies a restless, opportunistic press persona.

The police chief who balances the urgency of rescue with caution about ransom strategies. He represents procedural discipline and concern about encouraging further abductions. His involvement anchors the decision-making process in law and order.

A matriarchal figure within the Stannard family circle, often expressing concern for the well-being of Andy and the family’s privacy amid the public spectacle. Her presence reinforces the domestic stakes of the crisis.

Dave’s brother and business partner who stands by the family during the crisis. He provides practical support and reinforces the sense of a tight-knit, protective business-family unit.

A law-enforcement figure who participates in the hunt and the investigation. He embodies a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to the case and the attempt to avert further risk to the boy.

A familial connection who appears in the broader circle of Andy’s world, representing extended family ties and the social network surrounding the Stannards during a crisis.