The film suggests an openness to non-normative social structures through its Carnival setting. However, there is no explicit evidence of queer identities or same-sex intimacy.

The musical and performative nature of Carnival allows women to occupy roles of high agency. Conversely, the central plot involving a music manager may lean on patriarchal industry structures.

The narrative centers Afro-Brazilian identity and racial blending inherent to the Carnival tradition. Diegues utilizes this setting to highlight marginalized cultural expressions and non-Anglo-Saxon traditions.

The film elevates communal, subversive celebrations over rigid institutional norms. It prioritizes local, non-Western social rhythms and cultural autonomy over traditional religious or capitalist austerity.

There is no evidence of characters with visible or invisible disabilities within the narrative.