The film centers on a heteronormative romance between Franz and Polina. No queer narratives or non-cisnormative identities are present in the story.

Polina demonstrates significant agency by navigating the dangers of occupation. Franz finds his own humanity by subverting his military role to protect her.

The story highlights the tension between Germanic forces and the indigenous Slavic population. It frames the occupation as a violation of Belarusian sovereignty.

The narrative deconstructs the legitimacy of the occupying regime. It portrays desertion and deception as necessary moral rebellions against an oppressive state.

Disability serves as a functional narrative device for survival. The performance of deaf-mutism is used strategically to help the protagonists navigate a hostile environment.