Is the cultural divide really this wide?

First off let me say sorry I am a little late to the party.
-The forum so far seems to show that the majority didn't like/sympathize with the characters. i.e. drug use/DWI/promiscuity/narcissism/ etc.
-Many are writing this off as cultural differences between France and USA.
I am wondering if this is true? Is this an accurate depiction of modern France? Or just a certain class (bourgeoisie?) Or do French people think the characters were a bunch of idiots too?
-It would be great if someone who is actually French could enlighten us? Maybe point some signs about the characters personality that would have been totally missed by Americans.
Thank you