Neil (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) remembers the abuse and becomes a reckless gay hustler seeking intimacy through prostitution, while Brian (Brady Corbet) represses it into an alien abduction delusion; their paths converge to reveal the truth. The narrative explores trauma, repression, and coping without any framing of systemic oppression, patriarchy critiques, or identity politics as central drivers. Neil's homosexuality emerges organically from his childhood discovery and post-abuse behavior, fitting classic dramatic tropes rather than activist messaging.

Araki has described adapting the book solely for its devastating emotional impact on readers, with no statements emphasizing activism or norm-challenging intent. Casting features an all-white ensemble matching the small-town 1980s setting, with no race- or gender-swapping of established characters or DEI mandates. Reception highlights the film's raw power and performances, with minor Australian classification controversy solely over pedophilia depictions, not ideological content. Any LGBTQ elements remain incidental to the abuse-focused premise and do not elevate the score beyond minor incidental representation.