The show places noticeable emphasis on identity, particularly race and social context, over character nuance or psychological realism. While it purports to be a crime docuseries, the narrative often foregrounds ideological themes at the expense of more balanced storytelling, leaning heavily on societal analysis and less on individual moral choices.

Religion, masculinity, and traditional values are generally depicted as complicating factors or outdated influences, rather than earnest sources of strength or community. Family dynamics and moral questions often serve as vehicles to critique social structures, rather than to celebrate or honestly explore their deeper meanings.

Alternative perspectives are present but usually given little sympathy or nuance, predominantly positioned as obstacles or negative forces. The series leans hard into contemporary orthodoxies, rarely allowing for genuine debate, pluralism, or fair consideration of traditional interpretations.