Alex is a seventeen-year-old Canadian high school student who devotes his free time to molding, painting, and organizing military miniatures into historical battle formations. Struggling with the aftermath of his parents' divorce, he prefers the predictable tactics of ancient warfare over the unpredictable nature of his father's journalism career. Upon arriving in Beijing, his detachment fades as he interacts with local students and witnesses the reality of political resistance.

Ted is an accomplished news cameraman known for taking physical risks to capture exclusive footage. He brings his son on assignment to Beijing, treating the trip as an adventure while remaining fiercely focused on his professional duties. He views journalism as a vital truth-telling tool, a belief that drives him to document the escalating tensions in the city.

Eddie is a veteran CBC news correspondent stationed in China. Cynical and thoroughly pragmatic, he views the foreign government with deep suspicion and serves as a sharp contrast to Ted's exuberance. He frequently points out the reality of state surveillance, ensuring his team remains alert to the danger around them.

Lao Xu is a government-appointed guide assigned to manage and monitor the Western journalists during their stay. While he fulfills his official duties, he also possesses a vast knowledge of Chinese antiquity and forms a genuine bond with Alex over stories of ancient conquests. He finds himself caught between his assigned loyalties and his affection for the visitors.

Xiao-Nie is a medical student and active demonstrator who speaks strong English. Because of his red hat, Alex initially refers to him as "Hong" in his mind. He acts as a crucial bridge, communicating the students' three primary demands for democratic reform to the foreign press and ensuring Alex understands the gravity of their cause.

Xin-hua is a small, quietly fierce leader among the university students gathered in the square. Alex initially nicknames her "Lan" due to her blue clothing. She commands respect within her peer group and demonstrates immense bravery, planning logistics and taking significant personal risks to protect those targeted by the authorities.

Xiao-Yang is a dedicated demonstrator who works alongside Xin-hua and Xiao-Nie. He possesses practical resources, such as his father's flatbed tricycle, which prove vital when the group needs to move supplies and people discreetly through the guarded city streets.

Nai-nai is Xin-hua's elderly grandmother, living in a modest, cramped dwelling in Beijing. She possesses very little in terms of material wealth but offers her sparse food and shelter to those in need. She speaks no English but communicates her warmth and generosity through her actions.

Wang Ai-min is an individual demonstrator captured on film during the height of the military intervention. He represents the civilian desire for peaceful resolution by attempting to politely knock on a tank hatch and engage the soldiers in civil conversation, leaving a lasting impression on those watching the broadcast.