While "Her Smell" centers on a female punk rocker, the film is primarily driven by strong character study rather than shoehorned identity politics. The protagonist’s flaws and unraveling are front and center, with her gender as a context, not a shield or superpower. Forced representation and "Mary Sue" tropes are largely absent, so viewers will find a focus on genuine personal struggle over agenda.

The film does challenge traditional views around family and motherhood, showing a chaotic maternal figure who defies the nurturing archetype. It leans into themes of self-destruction in contrast to more conventional moral models. However, it isn’t aggressively mocking tradition but comes from a place of character-driven drama rather than overt subversion.

Most characters share a modern, music-industry lifestyle and attitudes, leaving little room for traditional or dissenting viewpoints. While not blatantly villainizing alternatives, the film doesn’t sincerely present contrasting perspectives, leaning into a specific subculture mindset.