Lead Characters:
Dan Williams – male, 40’s. A computer consultant, Dan is fairly mellow, but his most notable trait is that he’s quite the cynic. He is also very witty, however, and is quick to drop a snarky or snide comment; if sarcasm were an Olympic event he would be a gold medalist. He is slow to anger, but once pushed there he isn’t hesitant to let fly with whatever is irking him. He typically sports a frown or scowl, but when he does smile it’s heartwarming and reveals the lovable old bear hiding beneath. He has long ago given up anything athletic and has a little extra padding around the middle, as well as a hint of gray in the hair. He’s been married to Barbara Williams since college, but the flame has long died and he’s content to hibernate.
Comparable actor: Dennis Quaid
Barbara Williams – female, 40’s. A history teacher, Barbara is a typically the quiet bookworm who is enthralled with anything that has to do with the past; it is her passion, and she easily becomes animated when her passions are stirred –both good and bad. Her emotions run deep, and when they surface it’s best to give her room because her normally reserved tongue can pierce straight through the toughest exterior; likely stemming from having been married so long to Dan. She still has a since of vulnerability about her, however, though she keeps it well guarded. She was adorable in her youth – and could easily be again today – but nowadays the fire with Dan has long grown cold so she is content to forgo the makeup and instead spend the time with a good book.
Comparable actress: Helen Hunt
Karl Wilkins – male, 20’s. A laborer of few opportunities, Karl is lean and trim, his body toned by years of hard physical work. Although his muscles may have been hardened, his interior remains as tender as ever. A transplanted native of Oklahoma, he has a country-boy charm about him, and is honest and sincere. He has a detectable southern drawl, but definitely more southern gentleman than cornpone. He is sensitive, wears his emotions on his sleeve, and isn’t above expressing his innermost feelings. He’s clean cut and all-American, with a warm smile and sensitive eyes that can melt hearts; mainly Judith’s.
Comparable actor: Ryan Gossling
Judith Wilkins – female, 20’s. This doe-eyed daughter of a hard-working immigrant father is instantly loveable; both because of her pretty face and her equally lovely demeanor. She’s always a lady, with an innocent and inquisitive quality about her. Life is an adventure and she savors each day. This little piece of sunshine has a playful side, but is strong when she has to be.
Comparable actress: Rachael McAdams
NOTE: Both Karl and Judith are later shown in their years as elderly people; though it is up to the producer and director to decide if they wish to employ older actors or age the same actors.
Supporting cast:
Amanda Williams – female, 18 years old. The daughter of Dan and Barbara, this spunky and outgoing spitfire has inherited their traits of intelligence and outspokenness. She is both creative and artistic, and isn’t afraid to express herself; usually with a flare.
Carla – female, 30’s. Judith Wilkins’s sister, this fiery redhead is a stick of dynamite. She is the queen bee and isn’t afraid to take charge and express herself. She dominates most conversations, especially the one-sided ones she has with her husband, Curtis.
Curtis – male, 30’s. Married to Carla, this poor hen-pecked man turned in his man-card at the altar and is content to be the obsequious little man he is. Almost assuredly he had a collection of straw boater’s hats and matching bowties.
Josh Wilkins – male, 30’s. This simple park attendant is gentle and kind, and must have grown up as a boy scout because he’s squared away and eager to please. He always carries a smile, and his cheerfulness is infectious. There are also deeper qualities about him: wisdom and the ability to read people, and cater to their needs. Some have speculated he’s an angel in disguise.
Mr. Karlowski – male 50’s. Judith Wilkin’s father, this large Polish immigrant has a thick accent and even thicker skin. He’s endured years of sweat and toil to come to America, and works hard to provide for his family. He’s quite the protective father, and a rather intimidating sight because he’s as gruff on the outside as he is on the inside.
Ashley and Matthew Wilkins – female and male, 8 and 6. Karl and Judith’s children; your typical adorable, curious, and surprisingly well-behaved kids.
John Taylor – male, 20’s. This dashing flyboy was a war hero and returned to become the employee of the decade for the United States Postal Service. He is a handsome lady’s man with distinct facial features, a disarming smile, and perfect hair. He could be Clark Gable if Clark Gable wasn’t already Clark Gable.