Derek Jarman's Edward II centers on King Edward's passionate love for Piers Gaveston, depicting their relationship with dignity and complexity. The narrative highlights the intense political and societal opposition they face, which ultimately leads to the king's tragic downfall. Despite the grim outcome, the film critiques the forces of intolerance and affirms the worth of their love and identity.

The narrative portrays a dysfunctional royal marriage and celebrates a same-sex relationship, thereby challenging traditional family structures and subverting conventional gender and parental roles.

The film depicts the Christian Church and its figures as oppressive and hypocritical. Religious doctrine is used to condemn King Edward II's homosexuality, serving as a tool for political manipulation and persecution. The narrative critiques the institution's intolerance and cruelty, aligning with those victimized by its power.