Khartoum focuses on historical events and strong character-driven storytelling rather than modern identity concerns. Casting and character arcs are rooted in skill, historical fit, and dramatic tension, with little sign of identity-for-identity’s-sake representation or hyper-competent flawless characters. If anything, it’s a classic Hollywood approach prioritizing narrative over trendy ideological messaging.

The film largely maintains respect for traditional values, depicting military leadership, masculinity, religion, and cultural traditions as they would have been perceived at the time. While it’s not uncritical of imperial actions, it doesn’t mock or undermine foundational institutions. It’s more interested in moral and cultural clashes than deconstructing them per current progressive trends.

There’s not much room given for modern ideological agendas, and traditional perspectives are presented sincerely, albeit through the lens of 1960s sensibilities. If anything, dissent and cultural difference are explored via dramatic conflict, not as cartoons or strawmen. The film reflects its era’s worldview more than any enforced political consensus.