"Dave" keeps its focus on characters, humor, and an everyman’s perspective. Identity politics and forced representation play virtually no role, as character depth outweighs box-checking. Casting and narrative are driven by story needs rather than ideological considerations. It’s a classic, straightforward film with little to distract from its central themes.

The film treats institutions like marriage, the presidency, and public service with respect, poking fun at bureaucracy rather than tradition itself. There are no major efforts to rewrite or subvert cultural foundations, making it feel grounded in familiar late-20th-century American values.

Although the film is generally idealistic, it doesn't villainize traditional perspectives. There are shades of political opposition, and no extreme caricatures of dissent. The film is much more focused on individual decency than on pushing any ideological monoculture.