The film adheres strictly to heteronormative Victorian social structures. There are no visible depictions of non-cisnormative identities or same-sex intimacy within the narrative.

Female characters like Nancy possess narrative weight but remain defined by their proximity to men. Women are portrayed as subjects of a patriarchal order rather than subverters of it.

The cast is predominantly homogeneous, reflecting a white, Anglo-Saxon depiction of London. There is no evidence of race-bent casting or diverse ethnic perspectives.

The film offers a strong critique of Western institutions and the Victorian state. It frames the workhouse and Poor Laws as inherently oppressive and corrupt systems.

Representation of disability is minimal and incidental. The film focuses on the physical toll of poverty rather than providing character-driven explorations of neurodivergence or physical disability.