Under the Boardwalk

The events unfold in a contemporary coastal town along the New Jersey shore. Human presence—such as collectors and a pet shop—interacts with crab society, shaping the crabs’ social dynamics in real-time. The modern setting grounds timeless themes of courage, love, and belonging in a familiar waterfront world.

A community of land hermit crabs lives beneath a New Jersey beach boardwalk while sea crabs visit from the sea to vacation on land. The two groups clash, creating a tense, divided microcosm under the boardwalk where tide, shops, and human activity intersect crab life. The setting uses the boardwalk and shoreline as a backdrop for social rivalry and eventual cooperation.

🦀 Courage

Armen begins as a timid crab who seldom leaves his shell, haunted by his parents' death. He slowly pushes past fear as the crisis with Mako and the land-sea conflict escalates, choosing to act for others. His acts of bravery, small at first, culminate in a display of resilience that shifts the community’s view of what a hero looks like.

💞 Love & Belonging

Armen and Ramona’s relationship crosses species boundaries and social expectations, illustrating how love can bridge fear and prejudice. Ramona contends with her mother Val’s perfectionism, seeking independence while staying connected to her roots. Their bond motivates personal growth and demonstrates that belonging can be found in unlikely partnerships.

🤝 Unity & Reconciliation

The land and sea crabs’ feud intensifies as Mako manipulates perceptions, but Armen and Ramona’s journey refocuses the conflict on shared needs and care. Mako’s deception is exposed, allowing the crabs to see past stereotypes and work toward peace. The finale shows a community choosing collaboration over rivalry to protect their home.