Colin Firth as Paul Ashworth

Ruth Gemmell as Sarah Hughes

Mark Strong as Steve

Holly Aird as Jo

Ken Stott as Ted, the Headmaster

Stephen Rea as Ray, the Governor

Neil Pearson as Paul's Dad

Lorraine Ashbourne as Paul's Mum

Luke Aikman as Young Paul

Bea Guard as Paul's Sister

Richard Claxton as Robert Parker

Charles Cork as Rex

Bob Curtiss as Stan

David Hounslow as Man at Reading

Peter Quince as Chip Shop: Frank

Annette Ekblom as Robert's Mother

Jackie Hyffes as Pupil's Mom

Joe Reddington as Pupil's Dad

Graham Cull as Mr. Johnson

Mike Ingham as Radio Sports Commentator

Sam Dunbar Banks as Young Paul's Mate

Leigh Funnelle as Woman At Reading

Simon Bowen as Hillsborough Man

Silas Carson as Indian Waiter

Geoffrey Drew as House Owner

Liam Stapleton as 2nd Governor

Emily Conway as Sasha

AG. Longhurst as Taxi Driver

Shuli Morris-Evans as Party Baby

Philip Bond as Turnstile Operator

Gary Condes as Arsenal Fan (uncredited)

Nick Hornby as School Football Coach (uncredited)