The Main Characters

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An openly gay painter and writer, shunned by his family and community because of his homosexuality, who finally finds meaning in his life by fighting to protect Jews because “to do nothing is to be complicit.” He initially works on his own by hiding Jews, forging identity papers and writing underground newsletters calling for non-violent resistance to avoid Nazi reprisals on innocent Dutch civilians. But as the anti-Semitic persecution mounts, he  joins up with an unlikely group of like-minded bohemian artists, gay men, lesbians and students to carry out the bombing, disguised as policemen.

Willem’s main partner in the Resistance. Gerrit, a charismatic sculptor, first joined Willem in forging documents for Jews and publishing underground opposition papers before deciding more had to be done. He acted as Willem’s deputy during the attack.

A young Jew, who with a group of friends, published newsletter calling for armed resistance against the Nazis. His refusal to rule out the use of violence is a running source of contention with Willem, especially after he botches an assassination attempt on a leading Dutch Nazi. However, the two bury their differences to participate in the bombing.

A lawyer and close friend of Willem, who hid Jews in her office and helped them escape, while using her charm and excellent German to forge “fake” friendships with leading Nazis. 

An outspoken lesbian conductor and composer, A key plotter who takes part in the raid as a getaway driver dressed as a man.

A flamboyant gay tailor and close friend of Willem, who made the Dutch police uniforms worn by the gang to dupe their way into the Public Records Office and plant their bombs. He insists on wearing a pink shirt for his execution to demonstrate his homosexuality as a final act of resistance.

A ruthless SS General and vicious anti-Semite who spearheaded the persecution of the Dutch Jews and led the hunt for the bomb gang.

Head of the Central Office for Jewish Emigration in Amsterdam during the Second World War. He was responsible for the deportation of Jews from the Netherlands to  German concentration camps.