Here's a breakdown of their roles:
Esperanza "Essie" Salazar:
* Played by: The film's star, Angelica Panganiban.
* Character: Essie is a young, passionate woman in a dysfunctional relationship with the married, charismatic, and manipulative David. She dreams of a more fulfilling life, and her interactions with David and other characters reveal her longing for love and a better future.
* Key Role: Essie's journey is central to the film's narrative, as she navigates her emotions, struggles for agency, and ultimately faces the consequences of her choices.
Julia Salas:
* Played by: Zanjoe Marudo.
* Character: Julia is the best friend of Essie's sister, Martha.
* Key Role: Julia is the more level-headed and pragmatic counterpart to the passionate and impulsive Essie. She serves as a voice of reason, often trying to guide Essie and Martha toward better decisions.
Important Note: While the film features their relationship, their love story isn't the primary focus. "Dead Stars" delves deeper into themes of desire, regret, and the consequences of choices, using their relationships and interactions as a lens to explore these issues.