Sweet 15

A teenage girl in a working-class immigrant family who is initially seen as spoiled and naive but remains fiercely determined to have her quinceañera. Her persistence drives the plot as she attempts to secure her father’s immigration papers. Her impulsive tampering with records tests family loyalty and foreshadows her growth as she learns the limits of what she can affect.

Marta’s father, a hardworking immigrant who works at a steel mill under the alias Arturo Montoya. He has earned citizenship by long, law-abiding service but remains undocumented, creating constant fear of job loss and deportation. He hopes to stabilize his family while balancing work and secrecy.

The next-door neighbor struggling to find work due to lack of papers. He briefly secures a warehouse job that is tied to deportation risks, highlighting the precariousness faced by undocumented workers. His fate underscores the broader impact of immigration status on the community.

Gabi’s older cousin, a shy young man who cannot read or write. He becomes a key player in Marta’s plan to gather signatures and later showcases his own growth as he learns to read, symbolizing personal development through adversity.

Marta’s friend who pushes the plan to secure signatures and has influence within their social circle. Her connection to Ramón adds depth to the group dynamics and the unfolding community story.

Another friend who participates in the social circle around Marta and helps shape the plan to pursue the quinceañera. Her involvement illustrates how peer networks influence decisions in adolescence.

Marta’s mother, a working-class figure who shares the family’s concerns about finances and immigration status. She embodies the balancing act between keeping the family afloat and safeguarding their future.

Marta’s younger brother, part of the close-knit family unit. His presence helps illustrate the impact of immigration and economic pressures on siblings and the household.

The boss at Samuel’s workplace, whose expectations and potential actions loom over the family’s security. His position represents the corporate pressure that intersects with immigrant workers’ lives.