Colin Firth

Paul Ashworth

Ruth Gemmell

Sarah Hughes

Mark Strong

Steve

Holly Aird

Jo

Ken Stott

Ted, the Headmaster

Stephen Rea

Ray, the Governor

Neil Pearson

Paul's Dad

Lorraine Ashbourne

Paul's Mum

Charles Cork

Rex

David Hounslow

Man at Reading

Annette Ekblom

Robert's Mother

Silas Carson

Indian Waiter

Philip Bond

Turnstile Operator

Nick Hornby

School Football Coach (uncredited)