Moonrise Kingdom - Characters & Cast

To find a place where he belongs and to be with the one person who understands him (Suzy).

Sam starts as an unwanted orphan rejected by both his foster family and his scout troop. Through his journey with Suzy, he finds self-worth and courage. By the end, he transitions from a state of homelessness to finding a true father figure in Captain Sharp, shedding his "emotionally disturbed" label.

To escape her depressed, dysfunctional home life and live out the fantasy adventures she reads about in books.

Suzy begins as an angry, isolated girl with violent outbursts, feeling invisible in her family. Her relationship with Sam validates her emotions. Although she returns home, she is no longer alienated; she has a secret inner world and a continued connection with Sam, softening her anger.

To do the right thing and cure his own profound loneliness.

Sharp is initially a lonely, passive figure involved in an unhappy affair with Mrs. Bishop. The crisis with Sam awakens his sense of responsibility and empathy. He evolves from a sad authority figure into a protective parent, risking his career to save Sam from the orphanage.

To be a good leader and uphold the honor of the Khaki Scouts.

Ward starts as a rule-obsessed leader who loses his troop. He undergoes a crisis of competence but proves his worth by rescuing the commander during the storm. He learns to prioritize the children's safety over strict adherence to protocol.