Character Relationship Map: Flashdance

Characters

• Alex Owens (played by Jennifer Beals) — protagonist

  18-year-old steel mill welder and aspiring professional dancer who performs at a local bar. She struggles with self-doubt regarding her lack of formal training but ultimately pursues her dream, reconc...

• Nick Hurley (played by Michael Nouri) — protagonist

  Owner of the steel mill where Alex works. He becomes interested in her, protects her from an attack, and they begin a romantic relationship. He covertly uses his arts council connections to secure her...

• Richie (played by Kyle T. Heffner) — supporting

  A short-order cook at Mawby's who dreams of becoming a stand-up comedian. He is Jeanie's boyfriend until he decides to pursue his comedy career in Los Angeles, which contributes to Jeanie's temporary...

• Cecil (played by Malcolm Danare) — supporting
• Johnny C. (played by Lee Ving) — supporting

  Owner of the nearby strip club Zanzibar. He attempts to recruit Alex for his club and assaults her with his bodyguard. He later becomes involved with Jeanie, who briefly works as a stripper under his...

Key Relationships

• Johnny C. → Cecil (Alliance Boss/Enforcer)
• Richie → Cecil (Conflict Victim/Threat)
• Richie → Johnny C. (Conflict Victim/Threat)
• Nick Hurley → Richie (Social Acquaintance)
• Nick Hurley → Johnny C. (Conflict Rival)
• Alex Owens → Cecil (Conflict Assailant)
• Alex Owens → Johnny C. (Conflict Antagonist)
• Alex Owens → Richie (Romantic Ex-Boyfriend)
• Alex Owens → Nick Hurley (Romantic Lovers)

Story Analysis

A steel mill welder pursues professional dance against social and personal obstacles.

Plot Progression

1. Warehouse Welder
2. Barroom Encounters
3. Street Shadows and Sparks
4. Broken Dreams and Revelations
5. The Conservatory Stage