Character Relationship Map: Cicada

Characters

• Ben (played by Matthew Fifer) — protagonist
• Sam (played by Sheldon D. Brown) — supporting
• Dr. Dragone (played by Scott Adsit) — supporting

Canonical Relationships

Family, romantic, and professional connections based on plot evidence.

• Ben → Dr. Dragone (Professional Physician-Patient)

  Ben suffers from hypochondria and frequently goes through a set routine with his physician, Dr. Dragone.

• Ben → Sam (Romantic Partner)

  Ben meets Sam while browsing for books, and the two grow progressively closer. Their relationship becomes important enough that they must confront the...

Story Dynamics

Alliances, conflicts, and narrative interactions that evolve throughout the story.

• Sam → Dr. Dragone (Narrative Indirect Connection)

  Dr. Dragone is part of Ben's established life, while Sam becomes the person who gives Ben's life new meaning.

Story Analysis

A developing relationship forces two men to confront private trauma, emotional isolation, and the conditions required for intimacy to survive.

Plot Progression

1. A Life Without Meaning
2. An Unexpected Connection
3. Secrets Between Them
4. The Cost of Healing