The Big Chill focuses on character-driven storytelling and doesn't shoehorn in identity politics at the expense of narrative. The cast choices and character arcs feel organic to the setting, there's no sense anyone was chosen to fill a diversity checklist. The conversations revolve around friendship, regret, and adulthood rather than checking social-justice boxes.

While the film pokes at some countercultural and anti-establishment ideas (classically 80s), it treats traditional themes like friendship, family, and personal responsibility with respect. It doesn't overtly attack religion, masculinity, or tradition; instead, it explores generational transitions with honesty.

The film’s characters do share some 'Baby Boomer' perspectives, sometimes expressing cynicism or irreverence for authority, but alternative viewpoints (like the more conservative Harold) aren’t vilified. There’s a fair amount of nuance, no virtue-signaling bandwagon for today’s hot issues here.