The film adheres strictly to heteronormative Victorian standards. There are no depictions of non-cisnormative identities or same-sex intimacy within the narrative.

Male protagonists maintain intellectual and physical dominance throughout the story. While Mary Morstan drives the plot, her agency remains reactive and tied to her relationship with Watson.

The story engages with post-colonial themes involving the Agra treasure and India. However, characters of color primarily serve as plot devices within a colonial-centric perspective.

The film reinforces Western traditionalism and the stability of British institutions. It presents morality through a singular lens of law and justice without deconstructing Western social orders.

There is no nuanced portrayal of neurodivergence or physical disability. Any physical duress experienced by characters serves as a standard genre mechanic rather than an exploration of lived experience.