The narrative explicitly frames these issues as manifestations of patriarchy and rape culture, with characters chanting about smashing the patriarchy, protesting traditional rules, and embracing intersectional solidarity across cliques. Amy Poehler, who directed and stars as Vivian's riot-grrrl mother, has described the project as showcasing inclusive, intersectional feminism, different reactions to activism, and the need to unlearn prior modes of participation, aligning with creator intent to promote modern social justice themes.

The cast incorporates deliberate diversity, including Afro-Latina Lucy as a catalyst, Asian-American Claudia, a transgender student CJ (Josie Totah) seeking name affirmation, and other characters of color and varying abilities, with some reviews noting the white lead's arc benefits from their support while critiquing tokenism or white-savior framing. Audience and critic responses highlight the overt messaging, with praise for girl-power solidarity alongside accusations of preachiness, sanctimony, and prioritizing ideology over organic storytelling.