The film follows a conventional heteronormative framework. The central romantic arc focuses on the traditional courtship between John Carter and Dejah Thoris, with no queer subtext or non-cisnormative identities present.

While the story centers on a male hero, Dejah Thoris acts as a significant political agent. The film passes the Bechdel test, though the structural resolution remains tied to the male protagonist.

The use of extraterrestrial species allows for a speculative diversity that bypasses human racial hierarchies. This visual blending of different skin tones offers a metaphorical space for exploring non-human cultural identities.

The narrative adheres to classical Western storytelling tropes of heroism and honor. It prioritizes the restoration of order rather than providing a systemic critique of Martian social hierarchies.

Characters are defined primarily by physical vitality and combat prowess. There is no significant focus on neurodivergence, chronic health conditions, or visible disabilities within the main character arcs.