Joker was a movie that was released in 2016. The movie starred James Franco and told the story of a comedy character. The film received widespread praise and became one of the highest-selling films of the time.
I'm not sure as I haven't read it specifically. But usually in a novel like this, there might be a character who is the focal point of the 'ugliness' concept, perhaps someone who is ostracized because of their appearance or actions.
There might be local characters from the foreign countries in which the story is set. These local characters would serve to contrast with the American characters, highlighting the differences in culture and values. For example, they could be the ones who are on the receiving end of the 'ugly American' behavior and react accordingly, whether it's with confusion, resentment, or an attempt to educate the Americans. There may also be other American characters who either support or oppose the 'ugly American' behavior, adding different perspectives within the American group.
The main character in the ugly duckling story is, of course, the ugly duckling itself. And there are also the other ducks, geese, and hens that the duckling encounters during its journey.
Since I don't know the exact 'the ugly boy story', it's difficult to say. But surely the ugly boy would be one of the main characters. There might also be his family members, friends or bullies who play important roles in the story.
I'm not entirely sure without reading it, but usually, in a love - centered novel, there would be the two people involved in the relationship as main characters.