The Art of Getting By

The film focuses on a traditional heterosexual relationship between the two main characters. It does not include any non-binary gender identities or queer narratives, emphasizing a conventional pairing.

Sally challenges traditional gender roles by having significant emotional ability to act and social influence. However, the central romantic tension remains somewhat conventional.

The setting and casting reflect a predominantly white, middle-to-upper-class demographic. The narrative does not integrate diverse ethnic perspectives.

The story critiques the American educational system and the pursuit of meritocracy. George's cynicism towards authority figures questions the value of conventional Western social structures.

The narrative focuses on George's psychological detachment rather than visible disabilities. His social withdrawal is portrayed as a philosophical stance rather than a lived experience of neurodivergence.