"22 July" focuses on a real-life national tragedy. The show maintains narrative focus without overtly inserting identity politics or forced representation; characters and situations are based on actual events and individuals. There is little sense that race, gender, or sexuality are prioritized over authentic storytelling, and the victims, survivors, and professionals are portrayed in context rather than as ideological symbols.

The series treats serious topics like family, recovery, and law enforcement with a degree of respect. Faith, tradition, or masculinity aren’t unduly ridiculed or undermined. If anything, the show presents Norwegian institutions and values as resilient in the face of tragedy, rather than mocking or redefining them to suit modern sensibilities.

While "22 July" inevitably addresses extremism and nationalism as themes, it does so in a way that’s true to the historical record. It doesn't heavily lampoon alternative views or deliver heavy-handed ideological messages; instead, it zeroes in on the consequences of extremism without turning traditional perspectives into cartoon villains.