Character Analysis
(Avoiding Spoilers)
Living… in a bachelor apartment after separating from his wife Dinah who hates his guts. They have three kids: Marcel, Eddie, and Beni. Howard loves his kids and wants to keep them living comfortably.
Profession… jeweler. Howard works in the Diamond District of New York. He owns KMH, which sells rare and expensive jewelry. His famous clients include basketball star Kevin Garnett who stops by to get the freshest pieces the store has to offer. One of Howard’s favorite pieces is the black opal that he got from miners in Ethiopia; he tried many times to smuggle it to his shop as he believed it was worth a fortune. Finally, he was able to smuggle the precious rock by hiding it in a fish.
Interests… basketball, gambling, and making money. Howard is a diehard Knicks fan. But he’s now rooting for the Celtics (specifically on Kevin Garnett) because he made a big bet. Howard has developed an unhealthy gambling habit where he puts money on the line that isn’t his.
Relationship Status… involved with Julia. Howard is obsessed with Julia, who seems to be the only person who still likes him. Though it’s hard to tell if Julia loves him or is just using him for the money.
Challenge… paying back the various debts he is in, specifically $100,000 to Arlo, who regularly threatens him with physical violence to get his money back. Howard may seem like he’s in control at all times, but he’s now feeling in over his head: “I don’t have any place to go. I don’t have anywhere to get better.”
Personality… charismatic, impulsive, emotional, cunning, and impatient. Howard can be quite charming and animated. But he doesn’t think about his actions or the impact they might have on the people around him. He may have a good reason for what he does to take care of his children, but there are better ways to do that than lying, cheating, and stealing.
