The Vicious Kind

Peter is a naive and earnest young man returning home for the holidays, eager to share his feelings for his girlfriend, Emma. His innocence places him at odds with his troubled brother, Caleb, highlighting his desire for a genuine connection. Throughout the film, Peter's sincerity is juxtaposed against Caleb's skepticism, making him a center of emotional contrast.

Caleb is a deeply troubled older brother dealing with the aftermath of his ex-girlfriend's betrayal and chronic insomnia. His conflicts with Peter are fueled by his turbulent emotions and unresolved trauma, leading him to act out violently at times. Despite his flaws, Caleb experiences moments of vulnerability and insight that reveal a complex character struggling for redemption.

Emma is portrayed as a seemingly innocent figure caught in the tumult of the brothers' rivalry. However, as the story unfolds, layers of her past are revealed, complicating her relationship with both Peter and Caleb. Her interactions with Caleb are particularly intense, highlighting the tension between her desire for love and the shadows of her history.

Donald, the father of Peter and Caleb, is depicted as flirtatious and crude, often exacerbating the tension within the family. His character represents the flawed patriarch whose infidelities and emotional distance contribute to the brothers' struggles. Donald's interactions often reveal deeper issues of guilt and regret in the family dynamic.

Hannah is Caleb’s deceased ex-girlfriend whose memory haunts him throughout the movie. Her past relationship with Caleb plays a crucial role in shaping his current emotional state and his distrust of Emma. Hannah symbolizes the pain of betrayal and loss that Caleb must confront.

JT is Caleb's coworker who provides moments of comic relief amidst tension. His interactions with Caleb illustrate the everyday struggles of young men navigating relationships. He serves as a sounding board for Caleb’s insecurities throughout the film.