Arrowsmith

The film strictly follows the assumption that everyone is straight or cisgender. There are no depictions of non-traditional gender identities or same-sex relationships.

Female characters have significant influence but are defined by their relationships to the protagonist. The film reinforces traditional gender roles through the contrast of domestic life and bohemian companionship.

The cast is predominantly made up of similar backgrounds, reflecting the time period of the production. The narrative focuses on a white, Western scientific establishment without meaningful ethnic diversity.

The story critiques medical institutional rigidity through professional skepticism. It emphasizes the moral struggle of the individual scientist within a traditional framework of social responsibility.

Illness is treated as a clinical obstacle rather than a way to explore the lived experience of those affected. Characters suffering from the plague are primarily seen as subjects of medical study.