Children of Heaven - Characters & Cast

Ali's primary motivation is to rectify his mistake of losing his sister's shoes and to protect her from disappointment and their parents from further financial strain. His love and sense of responsibility for Zahra drive all of his actions, from the daily shoe-sharing routine to his desperate attempt to win a new pair for her in the race.

Ali begins as a young boy burdened by a mistake that he fears will bring trouble to his family. Throughout the film, he takes on a significant amount of responsibility, not only for his initial error but also for finding a solution. His journey is one of growing determination and self-sacrifice, culminating in his participation in the race. He learns to navigate difficult situations with integrity and unwavering love for his sister, demonstrating maturity beyond his years.

Zahra's main motivation is to support her brother and prevent their parents from finding out about the lost shoes. She is also driven by a simple childhood desire to have her own pair of shoes to wear to school. Her motivations are rooted in love for her family and a desire for a sense of normalcy.

Zahra starts as a disappointed and worried younger sister but quickly becomes an active and resilient partner in Ali's plan. She endures the discomfort of wearing ill-fitting shoes and the fear of being discovered. Her arc shows her developing a quiet strength and a deep sense of empathy, particularly when she discovers who has her shoes. She is the emotional anchor of the story, and her quiet suffering and understanding are deeply affecting.

The father is motivated by his duty to provide for his family. He is constantly seeking work and trying to manage their debts. His actions are driven by a desire to give his children a better life, even if he often falls short due to circumstances beyond his control.

The father is portrayed as a hardworking but financially strained man who is often stressed and short-tempered due to his inability to provide adequately for his family. While he can be stern, his love for his children is evident. His journey to the affluent part of the city with Ali shows his desperation and hope for a better life. A glimmer of success in his gardening work offers a brief moment of optimism, though it is short-lived.