The Rules of Attraction (2002)

The film features openly gay characters and themes of sexual fluidity, integrating them into its cynical portrayal of college life. While characters like Paul Denton are complex and have agency, their problematic behaviors are presented as part of the film's overall moral landscape, not as a specific commentary on queer identity. The depiction is largely observational, avoiding strong positive or negative messaging.

The film includes Lauren Hynde, a trans woman, whose portrayal is problematic. She is depicted as a sex worker, misgendered, and ultimately found dead, with her story lacking dignity or complexity. The narrative uses her identity as a source of exploitation and misery, without offering any affirming or counterbalancing elements.

The film portrays Christianity primarily through the lens of hypocrisy and superficiality, particularly among the older generation and the dysfunctional families of the protagonists. Outward religious observance is juxtaposed with moral decay and emotional abuse, suggesting that faith serves as a veneer rather than a genuine moral compass for its adherents within the film's world.