Episode plots and character arcs revolve entirely around military strategy, insubordination, combat losses, and unit formation with no narrative driven by identity politics, systemic critiques, or social justice framing. Casting prioritizes historical accuracy: the core ensemble consists of white British male actors portraying documented real soldiers, while producers explicitly rejected token female leads because the story is 'mainly about men' and leaned into that reality.

Sofia Boutella plays the fictional Eve Mansour, a composite spy character added for dramatic counterpoint and romance, representing actual female agents without altering any established historical figures. Subtle hints of repressed homosexuality around Paddy Mayne draw from historical speculation and appear as minor character texture rather than a focal plot or statement.

Creator Steven Knight emphasized fidelity to the chaotic true events, personal family connection to the North African campaign, and the idealism of young soldiers, with no activist intent stated. Minor elements like the invented female role and one Jewish soldier's brief reference to Nazi persecution remain incidental and do not shift the premise or emotional core away from traditional wartime heroism and rogue tactics.