It seemed the people who went to the religous school came from diverse backgrounds. Is this common? Like is it representative of the percentages that would normally occur?
For reference, as Sarah Silverman asks here, it would seem a lack of diverse backgrounds is implied, since she felt the need to ask the question. Though there are some that maybe some consider exceptions.
Some numbers are known for (public or private) schools or cities, some aren't. Are numbers accurate? Hard to say, because they differ from location to location. Does it matter? Not that much. What you want to do, when making such a book/movie, is to show as many different backgrounds as possible. You want to talk to people from all sensibilities. So, you create as many different characters and personalities as possible/needed and you make them discover each other, and different attitudes create funny situations sometimes. It's way to work for inclusion and better understanding of the other culture/background.
it was also important for the stars to embrace each other’s cultures and display them in the film. It makes such an impact if people know about other people’s traditions because it just brings everyone closer together. J-14 interviews
It's also why they wanted to show many different Jewish characters, because many people involved in the writing/making had different experience.
they also care deeply about authenticity — and giving teens fun, entertaining and diverse representation. [...] And there’s all walks of life and different socio-economic statuses. Director's interview
Sammi’s hope was that the Jewish theme would resonate with viewers, regardless of their religious affiliation.
“It's about educating the world in a gentle way that invites you in as one member of the party. It's not forceful, it's just giving you insight. It's very much a human story. And I think people forget that we're all human beings and we're all so deeply similar. The dressing might be different, but the heart is so similar, you know?” “We've shown the movie to some small audiences now, a lot of whom aren't Jewish, and what I'm hearing in those theaters and screenings are things like, ‘oh, we have something just like that!’ ‘Oh, my God, that's cool!’ ‘Oh my god, this is so fun, I want this!’ I really wanted to get behind a movement that showcases how we're similar and how we're all human beings.” Director's interview
