Product Info

Studio

Disney

Director

Dean Fleischer Camp

Genre

Action, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Fantasy

Rated

PG

Theatrical Release Date (NA)

May 23, 2025

Film Length

1hr 48min

Purchase From

Lilo & Stitch is a live-action remake of the original 2002 animated film. The film has its moments but with the changes made in transition to the remake, it feels like some things are best left untouched.

No One is Left Behind

Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Like the 2002 animated film, Lilo & Stitch is about a menacing alien shipwrecked Earth, specifically Hawaii. Stitch, also known as Experiment 626, is voiced by Chris Sanders, the same voice actor as the original 2002 Stitch. Stitch is adopted by Lilo, played by Maia Kealoha (Moana 2), who uses her as a safety measure to evade the Galactic Federation and his creator, Jumba, played by Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover, The Lego Batman Movie). Nani, Lilo’s sister, played by Sydney Agudong (West Michigan, On My Block) is in the process of gaining full guardianship over her sister after their parents’ death. Nani juggles providing shelter, food, and health insurance for Lilo while dealing with the destruction Stitch brings due to his behavior. The film also delves into Nani’s background, revealing that she was offered a full scholarship to become a Marine Biologist.

The movie continues to emphasize the importance of family with the famous line, “Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” This line is used throughout the film during tough times for Lilo and her family, evoking nostalgic memories of the 2002 film.

A Real Menace

Stitch himself is the highlight of the film, and there’s little that should be changed about the chaotic alien. While some scenes showcasing more hilarious moments of Stitch could have been included, the film effectively portrays Stitch’s character through well-done CGI and his interactions with Lilo. The chemistry between Lilo and Stitch is entertaining, especially as they work together to prevent mishaps. This is also Maia’s big screen debut and does a great job playing as Lilo. However, the supporting characters in the film feel lacking.

Don’t Fix What Isn’t Broken

Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The movie closely captures the essence of the original while introducing modifications to align with contemporary themes. For instance, the addition of Lilo’s neighbor, Tutu, played by Amy Hill (50 First Dates, The Cat in the Hat), adds a welcoming presence to the story. However, some changes made by Disney raise questions. Characters like David, played by Kaipo Dudoit (My Partner, Rescue: HI-Surf), and the aliens Jumba and Pleakley, played by Billy Magnussen (No Time to Die, Game Night), lack the same charm as their animated counterparts. The decision to have the aliens transform into humans rather than using CGI feels unnecessary and detracts from their original appeal.

Cobra Bubbles, who was a former CIA agent turned social worker in the original film, is now portrayed as a “social service director” with a hidden agenda. This change felt rushed and the juggling between Bubbles’s roles seems clunky, disrupting the storyline. Additionally, Captain Gantu does not make an appearance in this 2025 movie, prompting Disney to make more changes to certain characters to compensate for his absence.

Some iconic scenes such as Pleakley being engulfed by mosquitoes, Lilo purchasing Stitch for two dollars, and Stitch learning to be Elvis, did not make the cut. It’s difficult to understand why these and other scenes were removed. However, additional scenes of Stitch running from Pleakley and Jumba, as well as chasing after chickens, did bring some laughter. Kids will surely enjoy seeing Stitch causing mayhem and engaging in humorous actions, such as licking windows and eating his own mucus.

Aloha!

Despite these shortcomings, Lilo & Stitch offers a fun Hawaiian vibe with updated vocal tracks and familiar scenes. The film includes an updated vocal track of “Hawaiian Rollercoaster Ride” from the 2002 film, creating a sense of nostalgia. Hearing this and watching the scene where Lilo delivers a sandwich to Pudge the fish set a good tone for the film after Stitch’s escape. The film pays close attention to every action Stitch takes, aiming to elicit laughter, such as when Stitch wiggles his butt at his foes.

The Final Ride

Lilo & Stitch doesn’t quite capture the full charm of the original but kids will enjoy Stitch’s chaotic fun on the big screen and see how he becomes more connected to Lilo.

An early screening provided for this review. Lilo & Stitch arrives in theaters on May 23, 2025. Fans can visit the official website for tickets and information.