The film lacks non-heteronormative identities or queer-coded subtext. Interpersonal dynamics focus on traditional romantic tensions without critiquing heteronormativity.

Jessica Lange’s character provides intellectual agency as a journalist. She avoids the passive 'damsel' trope by acting as an active participant in the expedition.

The expedition features a diverse crew, including Black characters. However, the narrative remains centered on a Western-dominated, Anglo-centric expeditionary structure.

The story offers a sharp critique of Western capitalist structures. It frames the expedition as a corrupt, corporate-driven exploitation of the natural world for profit.

There are no prominent depictions of visible or invisible disabilities that serve as central character traits or drive the narrative.