Flipped - Characters & Cast

Initially, her motivation is simply to win Bryce's affection. As she matures, her motivation shifts towards understanding the world, standing up for her beliefs (like saving the sycamore tree), and living with integrity. She is driven by a deep sense of connection to nature and a strong moral compass instilled by her loving family.

Juli begins as a young girl with an all-consuming, somewhat superficial crush on Bryce. She is proactive, passionate, and sees the best in things. Her arc involves a painful but necessary disillusionment, as she learns that the boy she idolized lacks integrity. Through experiences like the sycamore tree's destruction and Bryce's rejection of her eggs, she develops a more mature understanding of character, learning from her father to look at the "whole landscape." By the end, she has grown into a principled young woman who values substance over appearance.

Bryce's initial motivation is to be left alone and avoid social awkwardness. He is driven by a fear of what others think. Over time, his motivation shifts to understanding his own feelings and earning Juli's respect. He becomes motivated to become a person of better character, someone worthy of the "iridescent" girl he finally learns to see.

Bryce starts as a timid and easily embarrassed boy, primarily concerned with avoiding Juli and fitting in. His perspective is heavily influenced by his cynical father and his shallow best friend, Garrett. His arc is a journey from cowardice to courage. Guided by his grandfather, Chet, he begins to question his father's prejudices and see Juli's unique qualities. He learns to stand up for what is right, culminating in his decision to end his friendship with Garrett and make a grand gesture to win back Juli's respect, signifying his 'flip' in perspective.

Chet is motivated by a desire to see his grandson grow into a man of integrity. Having experienced a full life and a deep love for his late wife, he wants Bryce to learn to recognize and appreciate true substance in people. He is motivated by kindness and a quiet wisdom, hoping to steer Bryce away from the cynicism of his own son.

Chet arrives as a grieving widower, quiet and withdrawn. His character arc involves re-engaging with life through his friendship with Juli. He sees her special qualities from the start and becomes a gentle, guiding force for Bryce. He doesn't undergo a dramatic change himself, but rather facilitates the positive change in his grandson, acting as the film's moral compass.

Richard is motivated by his deep love for his family and his strong sense of integrity. He works hard to provide for them and sacrifices to care for his institutionalized brother. His primary motivation is to raise his children to be good, perceptive people who value character over material wealth or superficial appearances.

Richard Baker is a steady, principled character throughout the film. He doesn't have a significant personal arc but serves as the bedrock of Juli's moral education. He faces financial struggles and family difficulties with quiet dignity, providing a stark contrast to Bryce's father. His role is to impart wisdom to Juli and, by extension, to the audience.

Steven is motivated by a fear of being seen as unsuccessful or associated with people he deems beneath him, like the Bakers. He harbors resentment about giving up a past passion (playing the saxophone) and projects his dissatisfaction onto others, particularly those who seem content with less, like Richard Baker.

Steven Loski represents a man embittered by his own perceived failures. He is judgmental, materialistic, and prides himself on appearances. He does not have a significant positive arc; instead, his rigid and prejudiced worldview serves as a catalyst for Bryce's own moral awakening. Bryce's decision to reject his father's values is a key part of his development.