Shiva Baby portrays a bisexual woman, Danielle, navigating complex relationships and social anxieties at a family gathering. The film depicts her queer identity with dignity and nuance, making it central to her character's journey. It explores her experiences and relationships without judgment, affirming the worth of her identity amidst external pressures.

The film depicts traditional family and community expectations as a source of anxiety for the protagonist, whose non-traditional relationships and choices are normalized. It critiques traditional gender roles and parental authority.

The film portrays the Jewish community and its members with nuance and depth, using the shiva as a setting for exploring complex family dynamics and personal anxieties. While the protagonist experiences discomfort within this setting, the narrative does not condemn the faith itself or its practices. The film explores the social pressures inherent in close-knit communities.