The People Next Door

Anna's mother, a stern but protective matriarch who disapproves of Anna's choices yet remains focused on her grandchildren's safety. She pushes Anna to confront her life, pursue stability, and cooperate with authorities while the search continues.

Anna's neighbor and the film's antagonist; a controlling, violent man who schemes to snatch the children and manipulate those around him. He hides his past crimes and creates danger for the family, ultimately facing law enforcement.

A recently separated mother who moves with her three daughters to start over in Albuquerque. She remains resourceful and determined to protect her kids, orchestrating contacts and strategies to uncover the truth about her neighbors and bring her children home.

A police investigator who digs into the couple's past and the girls' disappearance; initially skeptical of Anna, he uncovers a history of crime and coordinates a cross-state search with involvement from higher authorities.

Oldest daughter who is abducted and later rekindles a bond with her mother, expressing a desire to be herself again. Her experiences become a central emotional thread for the family’s pursuit.

Youngest daughter who is renamed by the kidnappers and eventually reunites with her mother, symbolizing hope and the possibility of normalcy returning.

Middle daughter who initially remains at the park, later part of the broader mystery; her fate propels the mother's relentless search and the tension of the case.

Garrett's wife who appears fearful and conflicted; she hides her husband's crimes for a time but ultimately reveals that Garrett killed Megan, adding moral complexity to the case.

Neighbor with a minor role who contributes to the social environment surrounding the central family.