Believe and be true to yourself, regardless of how society, others may want to label/limit you. Value your integrity, treat all without prejudice. Never lie. On the flip side, some iffy examples of manipulation paying off (even by admirable characters).
A riot breaks out at a stage performance because of scandal/intolerance: People shove, kick, punch one another. A man throws objects at a trans person. A duel is proposed to settle an injustice, but nothing comes of it. Arguing, yelling, confrontations. Willy locks Colette in a room against her will.
Film is about a woman who discovers her own bisexuality and writes about it, causing cultural sensation. Colette is a young, open-minded woman who enjoys sex. She has implied premarital sex with her future husband; after they're married, they kiss, embrace, have sex (with thrusts and grunts). Also same-sex kissing/sex, with breasts exposed. Graphic gestures (taking place under the blanket) during a sex scene between a woman and her lover. Intentionally provocative theater performances involve two women kissing; a woman's blouse is ripped off in the name of art. Flirting, innuendo. While sex and talk of it dominates much of plot, it's always consensual; all the women are in control of their sexuality.
Strong language includes "bastards," "bitch," "damn you," "hell," "horses--t," "piss," "s--t," and "tart." Also sexual words/phrases, including "carnal ecstasy," "sexual quagmire," and "ménage à trois."
Wine is seen on the table at nearly every meal. Champagne flows at parties and celebrations.