A white American of German descent in his twenties, Jason is a mill worker deeply connected to his family's legacy at Olstead's, grappling with his insecurities and attachment to his hometown.

An African-American man in his twenties, Chris is a mill worker with aspirations for education and a desire to break out of the cycle of factory work, influenced by his family's history and his own ambitions.

A white American bartender in his fifties with a limp from a past work injury, Stan serves as a thoughtful observer of the local community, offering insights into the lives of Reading's residents.

A Colombian-American busboy in his twenties, working at the local bar while striving for better opportunities, seeing the factory as a symbol of the American dream.

A white American of German descent in her forties and Jason's mother, Tracey is a fiery mill worker bonded to the city of Reading through her family's history and the changing landscape of factory life.

An African-American woman in her forties and Chris's mother, Cynthia is a longtime mill worker who faces tensions in her friendships after receiving a promotion at Olstead's.

An Italian-American woman in her forties, Jessie works on the mill floor and battles alcohol abuse while reflecting on the adventurous life she once dreamed of.

An African-American man in his forties, Brucie is Cynthia's estranged husband and Chris's father, struggling financially and emotionally due to a prolonged labor strike.