Innocent Voices - Characters & Cast

Chava's primary motivation is to protect his family and survive. He is also driven by a desire to live a normal childhood, to play with his friends, and to experience his first love. As the film progresses, his motivations become more complex as he is torn between his responsibility to his family and the desire for self-preservation.

Chava begins the film as a playful and carefree boy, despite the surrounding conflict. As his twelfth birthday approaches and the war intensifies, he is forced to mature rapidly, taking on the responsibility of providing for and protecting his family. His journey is a tragic arc from innocence to a grim understanding of the world, culminating in his decision to flee to save his life while grappling with the moral complexities of the war.

Kella's sole motivation is the safety and well-being of her children. She works tirelessly as a seamstress and constantly shields them from the horrors of the war, even at great personal risk.

Kella's arc is one of increasing desperation and fierce determination. Initially, she tries to maintain a semblance of normalcy for her children. As the war encroaches on their lives, she becomes a resolute protector, making difficult and heart-wrenching decisions to ensure their survival, culminating in the ultimate sacrifice of sending her son away.

Beto is motivated by his belief in the guerrilla cause and a desire to fight against the oppressive government. He is also driven by a love for his family and a desire to protect his nephew, Chava, from being drafted into the army he is fighting against.

Uncle Beto represents the path of armed resistance. He is a caring and charismatic figure in Chava's life, but his involvement with the guerrillas brings both hope and increased danger to the family. He offers Chava a potential escape from military conscription but also exposes him to the realities of the rebel cause.

The priest is motivated by his faith and a deep-seated sense of justice. He feels a profound responsibility to protect the innocent members of his community, even if it means defying the military and putting his own life in danger.

The priest initially offers spiritual comfort and a message of peace. However, as he witnesses the army's escalating brutality, his stance shifts towards active, non-violent resistance. He uses his position to protect his community, ultimately sacrificing himself for his beliefs.