The Guardian

A seemingly kind English nanny who is actually an ancient Hamadryad. She infiltrates the Sterling household, feigning warmth while exploiting the family's trust. She wields supernatural forest powers, using the living tree to kill intruders and threaten the family, including a kidnapping attempt on Jake. She ultimately dies when the tree is felled and her form disintegrates.

A Chicago transplant turned Los Angeles advertising executive who juggles a demanding career with family life. He grows wary of Camilla, becomes fiercely protective of Kate and Jake, and confronts the threat head-on. His determination and quick actions help guide the family through the crisis. He learns to rely on courage and partnership with Kate to keep his family safe.

A pregnant wife who remains resourceful and resolute as danger encroaches. She collaborates with Phil to safeguard Jake and faces Camilla’s true nature when the threat becomes undeniable. Kate's courage and motherly instinct anchor the family’s response to the supernatural invasion. She emerges as a steady, protective force for her husband and son.

The Sterlings' neighbor and designer of their home who first notices oddities and warns of unseen danger. He becomes entangled with Camilla and ultimately meets a violent end as the danger closes in. Ned serves as the human connector between the suburban world and the forest’s peril.

The Sterlings’ relative who previously endured the disappearance of her infant and later identifies Camilla as a false identity. She provides crucial insight into Camilla’s past and helps trigger the couple’s investigation. Her experience underscores the film’s themes of loss and vigilance.

The Sterling child who becomes the central target of Camilla’s predatory power. He experiences a frightening illness and a perilous kidnapping attempt, driving the parental defense. His health crisis and ultimate safety frame the emotional stakes of the family’s battle.

The initial nanny candidate who dies in a bicycle accident, removing a potential threat and setting the stage for Camilla’s hiring. Her death catalyzes the shift to Camilla’s presence in the household. Her memory foreshadows the looming danger.

The investigator who probes Camilla’s case and discovers there is no conventional evidence of her existence. His findings highlight the film’s supernatural core and the limits of ordinary inquiry. He provides an external, rational counterpoint to the unfolding horror.