The Green Zone chronicles the chaotic and often absurd attempts by the Coalition Provisional Authority to govern Iraq following the 2003 invasion. The book details the critical decisions made by American administrators, such as the disbanding of the Iraqi army and the flawed efforts to establish a new police force, highlighting the disconnect between the administrators' vision and the reality on the ground. Chandrasekaran uses interviews and internal documents to expose the lack of preparation and understanding that characterized the occupation, illustrating the profound consequences of these actions on Iraq and the broader region.

Rajiv Chandrasekaran's "Imperial Life in the Emerald City" (the book this film tie-in is based on) is recognized as a sharp, critical reportage of the post-invasion Iraq occupation. The narrative is noted for its detailed accounts of administrative missteps and the disconnect between American intentions and Iraqi realities. It highlights the often-ludicrous decisions made by inexperienced officials in high-stakes positions. The book serves as a stark examination of the challenges inherent in imposing foreign governance and attempting to build democracy in a complex, post-conflict environment.