The titular captain and protagonist of the film, a central figure in the story set in a historical context.
Hannes Balla leads a forceful group of construction workers who obtain scarce materials by taking them and openly reject Party authority. A Party secretary tries to win his trust and make him accept responsibility rather than remove him. Their clashes gradually become personal and mixed with mutual attraction.
A former East German Stasi agent, Otto is nearing promotion to the highest government ranks and is anxious to preserve a spotless public image. He is suspected of having betrayed his old friend Kalle when Kalle tried to escape East Germany. Their strained, deceptive friendship drives the story, and Isabelle is Otto's daughter.
A seasoned riverman and guide intimately familiar with the Yukon's dangerous waterways. His expertise is crucial for the group's mobility and survival.
Manfred Krug has 82 screen credits in a career dating back to 1948. Signature works include Liebling Kreuzberg, The Blue One, How Do You Feed A Donkey?. Explore the interactive character relationship maps on each title page to trace how their roles connect across franchises.
