It’s easy to forget that, since they began remaking their animated films in the 90’s, Disney has made over twenty films of that nature by now. Over that time, we’ve had some films that have been spectacular (Maleficent, 2016’s The Jungle Book) and others that were more forgettable (The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Pinocchio).

But let it be said. Lilo & Stitch genuinely may outshine them all.

Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, Lilo & Stitch tells the story of Lilo (Maia Kealoha), a 6-year-old Hawaiian girl who lives with her older sister, Nani (Sydney Elizebeth Agudong). After Lilo wishes for a friend, their home (and their lives) is upended with the arrival of Stitch (Chris Sanders), a dog-like alien with a penchant for destruction. However, while Nani attempts to keep her social workers at bay, Stitch also tries to avoid two alien hunters (Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen) who are determined to bring him home.

Stitch in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2024 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

While many of Disney’s live action remakes get by solely on nostalgia, Lilo & Stitch manages to walk a fine line between the past and present. Despite the fact that the re-imagining reinvigorates the original, it also brings changes to it without disrupting the things people love most about the film. Even with its new additions (read: alterations), there’s a very real sense that this story still works today. And, truthfully, that’s absolutely the best case scenario for any franchise refresh.

In short, Lilo & Stitch gives the audience what they want but still has something new to offer in the process.

From the Elvis-fueled soundtrack to the stunning scenery, Lilo & Stitch is simply the type of world that the viewer will want to inhabit. Often hilarious, the film is fueled by mischievous magic. Whether he’s starting fires or spraying water, Stitch has always been a blend of both naughty and nice. He’s the type of character that you wish you hadn’t brought home but never want him to leave. But, in that spirit, Stitch has always been about the need for ‘Ohana in a time of loneliness and the reimagining hits that note perfectly.

Stitch in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

It’s worth noting that performances by the cast are solid all around. Agudong offers some delightful work as the stressed-out but grace-filled Nani. Galifianakis and Magnussen are positively frenetic in moments as Jamba and Pleakley. And, of course, Kealoha is both adorable and affable as the lonely and lovable Lilo. But honestly, the real MVPs of this revitalization may be the duo that never appear onscreen.

While the casual viewer may not necessarily recognize the name of director Dean Fleischer Camp (not yet, at least), there’s no doubt that he brings something special to the film. As the director of the spectacular Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, Fleischer Camp has proven his ability to blur the lines between animation and reality with effectiveness. (What’s more, he also has the ability to maximize the emotion that the viewer experiences from fictional characters as well.) In Lilo & Stitch, those talents are fully on display as he breathes life into the animated Stitch. Stitch isn’t just adorable. He genuinely connects with the audience. In close ups, his eyes reveal the conflict within him. Born to be bad, Fleischer Camp ensures that we know Stitch really wants to be good, even at his worst.

Of course, part of the joy of Stitch’s character is his lovable voice, leading to our second MVP of the film. Although he’s made his mark as a director, the return of Chris Sanders (The Wild Robot) adds the appropriate level of nostalgia that will excite audiences. There’s simply something unique about the way Stitch speaks that any recast would risk ruining the magic. And, as the one who brought him to life, Sanders understands him better than anyone else. By bringing him back, Disney gives their wildest animated character back the soul that made him famous.

(L-R) Stitch and Maia Kealoha as Lilo in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Now, as with all of these positives, the film has made some changes that may leave some fans scratching their heads. For example, changes to Pleakly and Jamba’s ‘disguises’ have generated quite the discussion online, even though the decision is somewhat logical. And, without giving spoilers, this also includes the omission of a significant character from the original film that helped drive the story. (Though, it’s also possible that they are being saved for future sequels.) However, one can’t deny that these differences never detract from the heart of the film.

In fact, one change that actually improves the film’s character arcs is the addition of ‘kuleana’. While Lilo & Stitch has always been associated with the concept of ‘ohana’, the film’s inclusion of the idea of ‘kuleana’ speaks to the need for responsibility. For some characters, this means taking responsibility for those under their care. For others, there are also moments when they need to take care of themselves. But both examples are shown to be positive opportunities for healthy living. There’s something beautiful about this conversation that reminds the viewer that there are times when doing what’s best for ourselves actually helps us to do what’s right for others.

(L-R) Sydney Agudong as Nani, Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Stitch in Disney’s live-action LILO & STITCH. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Embedded in the film, there’s a deep love of family and a redemptive spirit that proves everyone is valuable. After all, as we said, Lilo & Stitch has always been about ‘ohana. Even so, the refresh proves that there’s room for growth. And, in terms of the franchise itself, this remake proves that that no fan is left behind.

Lilo & Stitch is available exclusively in theatres on Friday, May 23rd, 2025.