If this were a novel, the overarching thesis would be that all art is inherently political, whether intentional or unintentional. Beyond that, however, is the concept of ideology – not what our stated beliefs are, but the assumptions, rules, and structures that we take for granted as natural, rather than an imposed worldview.
The film has gained fans as the years have gone on, and now it has a new Blu-ray set of its famed "Cannes Cut," as well as a documentary about it.