The Man Who Would Be King is an adventure film that does not include any explicit or implicit LGBTQ+ characters or themes in its storyline. The narrative focuses on the ambitions and exploits of two male protagonists without addressing queer identity.

This adventure film, set in the late 19th century, follows two former British soldiers on their quest to become kings in a remote land. The story contains no identifiable transsexual characters or themes, nor does it touch upon gender identity in any capacity.

The film primarily focuses on its two male protagonists and their adventures. Female characters are present but are not depicted engaging in or winning physical combat against male opponents through skill, strength, or martial arts.

The 1975 film is a direct adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's novella. All major and minor characters, including Daniel Dravot, Peachy Carnehan, and Roxanne, maintain the same gender as established in the original source material.

The film adapts Rudyard Kipling's novella, portraying British protagonists and Kafiristan natives with actors whose races align with the source material and historical context. No established character's race was changed.