Antagonist

Character Role Analysis

Mr. Perry

When Neil's father first appears, he seems to be an encouraging and supportive parent who believes in his son's potential.

We quickly learn, though, that his ideas about Neil's potential isn't based on what Neil wants, but what he wants. And what he wants is in direct opposition to Neil's dreams.

Mr. Perry makes Neil quit his creative extracurricular activities in order to focus on his schoolwork, and Neil doesn't seem to be able to stand up to him. Later, after seeing Neil in the play, he decides to send Neil to military school rather than let him pursue his plan of becoming an actor.

While he may be acting out of love, he serves as the foe to everything the DPS stands for: individuality and self-expression.