Griffin in Summer affirms LGBTQ+ identity via the protagonist's comfortable acceptance of his gayness and sensitive handling of his first crush. Queer elements blend seamlessly into themes of adolescence and art, fostering empathy for youthful emotions. The portrayal earns praise as a vital, non-stereotypical depiction of queer coming-of-age.

The film depicts a single-mother household amid a messy parental divorce, with the father portrayed negatively and family dysfunction serving as fodder for the protagonist's artistic expression. This portrayal questions the stability of traditional marriage while highlighting personal and queer self-discovery over conventional family bonds.