True North

A pragmatic crew member whose sense of responsibility drives him to confess the illicit plan and face the consequences. He remains a steady presence on board, navigating loyalty to Seán and the rest of the crew while contending with the ship’s deteriorating ethics. His actions reveal a quiet, protective resolve and a willingness to confront difficult truths.

The Skipper’s indebted son and a crew member who becomes entangled in the smuggling scheme to ease financial pressure. He reluctantly accepts the money to smuggle the refugees, driven by financial strain and concern for his family’s future. His arc traces a reluctant path from desperation toward the question of responsibility for the consequences.

Captain of the Providence, burdened by mounting debt and the bank’s pressure. He contemplates drastic action to save the boat and his livelihood, ultimately drowning the immigrants—an act that embodies the film’s darkest ethical breach. His authority collapses under the weight of financial and legal peril.

A local smuggler who offers a large sum to Seán for transporting a group of Chinese immigrants. He embodies the lure of easy money and the international reach of trafficking networks. Pol’s role triggers the moral crisis at the heart of the voyage.

A 12-year-old Chinese refugee who hides on board, stealing food and surviving in the ship’s shadowy world. Her presence exposes the vulnerability of the migrants and the humans responsible for their transport. The finale places her at the bus stop, carrying the money that arrived with the voyage.

The ship’s cook who discovers Su Li but chooses to keep her presence secret. He ultimately acts to protect those on board, participating in the grim confrontation that ends with the Skipper’s death. His silent, protective stance challenges the crew’s moral compass.

A ruthless smuggler who orchestrates the plan to bring Chinese immigrants into the UK, representing the international criminal network behind human trafficking. He embodies the origin of the film’s central ethical crisis from outside the ship’s crew.