The Clearing leans into contemporary identity themes, casting diverse characters and emphasizing trauma and empowerment. Some scenes seem to prioritize social messaging over organic narrative development, but the story generally remains focused on psychological tension. Character choices sometimes seem driven by modern sensibilities rather than internal consistency.

Traditional family structures and religious beliefs are often depicted as oppressive or cult-like, and masculine figures are largely sidelined or depicted in negative lights. The show favors reinterpretations of parental and authority roles to suit modern values, which could be viewed as revisionist.

Alternative perspectives, especially those tied to tradition or skepticism about modern mores, are mostly shown as villainous or mentally unstable. The 'right side of history' is never in doubt. Pluralism is absent, dissenters are either evil or broken, rarely given nuance.