Love, Simon

Representation / casting choices

Prominent gay male lead and central queer romance with visible LGBTQ+ side character; fits the modern suburban teen premise exactly with no race or gender swaps or forced diversity signaling.

Political / ideological dialogue

Occasional light lines about heteronormativity and the hassle of coming out delivered with humor, but no extended activist speeches, systemic critiques, or heavy messaging.

Identity-driven story themes

Gay identity, closeted secrecy, and public coming out form the entire emotional core and marketing hook; the story exists to normalize queer teen romance in a mainstream format.

Institutional / cultural critique

Almost none; family and school environment shown as supportive and normal, with no attacks on traditional gender roles, patriarchy, Christianity, or conservative institutions.