Character Breakdowns

Josh is an 8 year old boy with a fascination with cicadas. He's quiet and sensitive and appears selfish on the surface, but underneath hides true feelings. He rejects advances for friendship from his brother Aden in favour of isolation. He pretends not to care that Aden gets more attention from his Mum but buries these feelings of resentment in his anti-social behavior. Josh confides his emotions in his interest with cicadas, creating a shell around himself that separates him from his family.

Aden is a 3 year old boy that refuses to speak. He is adventurous, playful, possessive and sensitive. He yearns for his older brothers friendship and rejects efforts by his Mum to make him talk. The reason why he doesn't talk is a mystery, however it may have something to do with the absence of his father. Aden adores his panda bear doll as it is the closest thing he has to a best friend.

The Mum is in her early thirties and is consumed with insecurities over her youngest son Adens refusal to speak. She's a little unsure of herself at times but is strong, warm and compassionate. She directs most of her attention to Aden, due to his late speech development however still cares deeply for Josh, her oldest son. She is worn out from day to day activity and this results in her having a low tolerance for misbehavior. The Mum yearns for security and will do whatever it takes to achieve it.