A quiet but determined man, Emil struggles with his faith due to past traumas and is focused on protecting his family during their journey from Ukraine.

The serious and quieter eldest son of Adeline and Emil, Walt experiences fear and anxiety from the violence they encounter during their escape.

Adeline and Emil’s youngest and more adventurous son, known for his sense of humor and bravery akin to his father’s.

Adeline’s mother and one of the many "widows of Stalin," who struggles with the bitter realization of her husband’s disappearance under Stalin's regime.

Adeline’s optimistic older sister, who sustained a head injury as a teenager but remains a source of comfort during the family's trials.

Emil’s father, who emerges from a Siberian prison with deep mental scars and struggles with the trauma of his past imprisonment.

Emil’s mother, who grapples with bitterness but shows occasional remorse for her past actions, especially in moments with her family.

Emil’s free-spirited sister whose lively disposition shifts after a tragic accident during their refugee journey.

A cruel Nazi officer who enjoys his power and forces others into complicity, representing the brutality of the Nazi regime.

A positive and kind mentor figure for Emil, helping him rediscover his belief in God during their time in a prison camp.

A self-serving Volksdeutsche refugee who abandons morals in favor of personal gain, embodying the moral compromises made during wartime.

A Jewish acquaintance of Adeline who receives assistance obtaining forged identity papers, representing ethical dilemmas during the war.

An elderly Jewish woman who employs Adeline, providing her with encouragement and serving as a source of inspiration throughout her life.

Adeline's cousin encountered on the refugee train, who struggles to cope with grief and loss after her infant sons’ deaths.