The character Scuttle, a well-known seagull from prior adaptations, is reimagined as a female diving bird in this film. This portrayal changes the character's established gender from male to female.

The character Ariel, originally depicted as white in the animated source material, is portrayed by a Black actress in this live-action adaptation. This constitutes a race swap for a canonically established character.

The narrative culminates in the formation of a traditional family unit through heterosexual marriage, emphasizing themes of love and commitment. Although the protagonist initially challenges parental authority, the story ultimately resolves with intergenerational understanding and sacrifice.