Elizabeth is an idealistic 17-year-old high school senior who works at a local bookstore. She plans to study musicology at UCLA and dresses in a distinctive vintage style inspired by her late mother. The pair shared an obsession for classic romantic comedies before her mother died in a car crash. Elizabeth holds rigid expectations for a movie-perfect romance, often ignoring reality in favor of a curated fantasy.

Wesley is Elizabeth's 17-year-old next-door neighbor. He plays baseball and is popular among his classmates. He frequently clashes with Elizabeth over a shared street parking space. Despite his sarcastic exterior, he demonstrates unexpected attentiveness and agrees to help Elizabeth win the attention of her childhood crush in exchange for permanent parking rights.

Michael is a tall, blond high school student who moved away during elementary school. He returns to town after seven years and immediately catches Elizabeth's attention. He fits her ideal archetype of a dependable romantic hero. He views Elizabeth affectionately through the lens of their shared childhood memories, remembering her as a quirky young girl.

Jocelyn is Elizabeth's closest companion at school. She provides grounded advice about social dynamics and senior activities. She encourages Elizabeth to participate in prom preparations and tries to keep her expectations realistic regarding romance.

Laney is a popular student in Elizabeth's English class. Elizabeth has harbored resentment toward her since kindergarten due to early childhood slights. Laney is currently the subject of school rumors regarding a potential relationship with Michael.

Helena married Elizabeth's father six years ago. She is described as laid-back and sarcastic, contrasting with the traditional personality of Elizabeth's late mother. She attempts to bond with her stepdaughter, but Elizabeth intentionally keeps her at a distance out of loyalty to her mother's memory.

Elizabeth's late mother was a screenwriter of romantic television movies. She died in a drunk driving accident when Elizabeth was in fifth grade. She taught her daughter to avoid charming troublemakers in favor of dependable partners. Her memory heavily influences Elizabeth's worldview and fashion choices.

Elizabeth's father became highly protective following his first wife's death. He enforces strict curfews and worries about his daughter's safety. He cares deeply for Elizabeth and encourages her to complete her college applications while supporting his current wife's attempts to connect with her.

He is Wesley's father who lives next door to the Buxbaum family. He assists his son when unexpected vehicular trouble arises.

Alex is a classmate who runs in the same social circles as Wesley and Michael. School rumors suggest she harbors romantic feelings for Wesley.

Noah is an athlete who spends time with Wesley and Michael. He attends local parties and accidentally injures Elizabeth during a casual basketball game.

Adam is a member of Wesley's social group. He owns a minivan and provides transportation for his friends during their outings.

Ashley is a high school student who attends local social gatherings. She drinks heavily at a basement party, leading to an awkward physical encounter with Elizabeth.