The Taking of Pelham One Two Three

Blue is the leader of the hijackers, a former British Army colonel turned mercenary. He communicates with cold precision, coordinating the plan and projecting confidence over the radio. His ruthlessness is tempered by a calm, analytic demeanor, making him difficult to predict until the moment of violence.

Green is a former motorman who lost his job after a drug bust, bringing a street-smart but jittery presence to the crew. He is pragmatic and loyal to the plan, yet his nervous tic—sneezing—betrays the pressure he’s under. He remains suspicious of Grey and plays a key role in keeping the operation moving.

Grey is volatile and feared within the group; his erratic temper leads to lethal violence when he shoots a supervisor. He clashes with Blue's control and ultimately tries to assert his own authority, sealing his fate in the stand-off.

Brown is a calm, composed member of the hijacking trio who helps maintain control inside the train. He is quickly killed by police fire, highlighting how precarious the hijackers’ victory is and how quickly the balance can shift under pressure.

Garber is the transit police lieutenant coordinating the response. He remains cool under pressure, using strategic bluff and close observation to draw out the hijackers. His rapport with other officers and his dry wit help him navigate a tense, dangerous situation.

Patrone is Garber's handler on the ground, providing experience and steady support to the operation. He balances skepticism with pragmatism, helping to coordinate the checkpoint and pistol-wielding negotiation under the city’s watchful eye.

Daniels is the senior ground official who works with Garber from above ground, piecing together the hijackers' intentions. He brings authority and a cool, methodical approach to the crisis, contributing to the larger investigation once the train is brought to a stop.