The story centers on a heteronormative romance between Bridger and Clover. While the characters are framed as social outsiders, the film does not explore non-cisnormative identities.

Clover displays significant agency regarding her personal trauma, yet the plot leans into the protector trope. The film does offer a nuanced look at maternal agency through Helen Jenkins.

The cast and setting appear predominantly homogeneous. There is no evidence of significant ethnic blending or non-white characters driving the central plot.

The film disrupts idealized family norms by focusing on a broken domestic unit fleeing abuse. It prioritizes individual survival and interpersonal connection over systemic critiques.

The narrative treats physical and psychological scars with dignity. Characters dealing with self-harm and a history of heart transplantation are integrated into the story with seriousness.