In our view, "Based on a True Story" does showcase some modern identity themes, with characters' social backgrounds and identity markers playing a noticeable role. While not as overbearing as some recent productions, storylines occasionally seem to cater more to social messaging than character-driven arcs, particularly via casting and certain plot points.

The show takes a somewhat skeptical tone toward traditional values like marriage and family, opting for irony and satire. Masculinity in particular is depicted through a quirky, sometimes hapless lens, while more non-traditional gender roles are played for humor and relatability, which may land as undermining for some viewers.

Alternative or traditional perspectives are mostly played as comic relief or gently mocked, and there’s a distinct absence of any genuine pluralism or ideological diversity. The worldview largely aligns with modern LA-based sensibilities, and dissenting voices are lampooned more than explored.