Lilo & Stitch

Disney's 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch, is a joyful, emotionally rich reimagining that retains the soul of the beloved 2002 original while adding fresh depth and modern visual magic.

Maia Kealoha shines as Lilo, capturing the quirky, brave, and fiercely loving spirit that made the character iconic. Her chemistry with Sydney Agudong as Nani feels genuine and heartfelt, grounding the film in a believable sisterhood. Chris Sanders returns as the voice of Stitch, bringing back the lovable alien's chaotic charm with perfect comedic timing and tender nuance.

The visual effects are really good, with Stitch rendered in a way that feels both real and endearing-maintaining his cartoonish mischief while fitting naturally into the lush Hawaiian landscape.

What makes Lilo & Stitch truly shine is its faithful exploration of family, grief, and belonging. The film embraces the original's emotional core-"Ohana means family"-and delivers it with authenticity and maturity that appeals to both new viewers and longtime fans.

The 2025 remake of Lilo & Stitch is not just a nostalgic reboot-it's a lovingly crafted homage that brings new life to a story about love, loss, and the beauty of chosen family.

The 2025 live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch is a decent enough watch, especially if you've got young kids in tow, but it doesn't quite capture the heart of the original. It's faithful to the story we already know, maybe a bit too faithful - there's nothing new here, no real surprises, and not much left to the imagination.

Visually, it looks good. Stitch is brought to life well enough with CGI, and the setting still has that vibrant Hawaiian charm. But something about it feels a bit flat. It's like the film ticks all the boxes, but without much spark. If you're a fan of the 2002 version, you might find yourself missing the quirky, hand-drawn magic that made it so memorable.

That said, the best part of the experience was watching my kids enjoy it. They were completely into it - laughing, wide-eyed, and glued to the screen. Seeing them get swept up in the story definitely made the outing worth it, and that's really what this version seems to be aiming for: something safe and familiar for a new generation.

In the end, Lilo & Stitch an is a decent watch really - it's just not essential. If you've got little ones, they'll probably love it, and you'll enjoy sharing that with them. But if you're watching it solo, or hoping for something fresh or moving, you might be left wanting. Worth a watch if you're with the kids or just need something light.

I was honestly so worried this would end up being another let down from Disney. But it was not.

Just as heartwarming and moving as the original Lilo&Stitch from 2002; this one had very few slight changes to the script. Yet it felt new. The theme of family, belonging and acceptance thankfully has been well preserved and translated the way no other Disney production probably has.

Maia Kealoha did a good job portraying Lilo, but for me the best addition to this Ohana was Sydney Agudong who played Nani. She was so believable, so sisterly, she carried every single one of her scenes perfectly.

For those who complained about Pleakley's live action adaptation after seeing the trailer, I think you will enjoy his character in this version. Not to the full extent of the original but Billy Magnussen totally delivers what was asked of him.

Another great surprise was bringing the original voice of Nani - Tia Carrere - to partake in the live action (in a different role of course), it was nostalgic seeing her on the big screen again and hearing her voice.

I didn't expect to get as emotional as I did watching this version as an adult, but the grief, chances as redemption and the idea that even the most flawed of us deserve love hits at any age I guess.

Still to this day one of Disney's more unconventional and emotionally resonant stories, especially for its honest portrayal of family struggles and the strength of sibling bonds. And I know the new generation will fall in love with these characters just like we did 23 years ago. Luckily the run was kept under 2 hours long so nobody will have a chance to complain.

I enjoyed Disney's new live action remake Lilo & Stitch. It keeps the nostalgia of the original movie while giving it a fresh, real-life twist and is one of the better recent live action remakes.

Lilo & Stitch (2025) brings the adored animated film of the same name from 2002 to life. Lilo (Maia Kealoha) is a lonely Hawaiian girl who lives with her older sister, Nani (Sydney Agudong) after their parents sadly pass away. Lilo discovers an adorable, but very chaotic fugitive alien named Stitch (Chris Sanders), who she teaches the meaning of "ohana," which means family, while he helps mend her own.

This remake stays pretty true to the original story with a few minor differences and the addition of a few new characters. I love the designs of Stitch and the other aliens, like Pleakley and Jumba, as they stay very true to their original characters from the animated version but have more realistic textures and qualities to fit a live action movie. Stitch somehow looks even more adorable as a live action alien, kind of reminding me of Baby Yoda. Maia Kealoha, who portrays Lilo, is precious and I was rooting for her the whole way. This movie is her big screen debut, and she is incredibly talented, especially considering that her co-star is completely CGI. Nani and Lilo's bond is explored more in this movie which I like as they really emulate a sibling relationship, but I wish that more of Stitch and Lilo's bond was explored as their connection feels a little rushed. Chris Sanders returns to voice Stitch's iconic voice which really helps keep the magic of the original movie as most of the other characters are played by new actors. One of my favorite characters from this movie is a new one, Tutu, played by Amy Hill. She actually had a small role in the original film, and now she plays the sweet and lovable neighbor of Lilo and Nani. Overall, I definitely prefer the original animated Lilo & Stitch movie from 2002 but this version is still worth the watch for young kids and Stitch fans.

The film's messages are about the importance of fighting for your family and a reminder that everyone is capable of change. It also displays the importance of strength, resilience and forgiveness during difficult times.

I give Lilo & Stitch 4 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 18, plus adults. It comes out in theaters on May 23, 2025.

By Katherine S., KIDS FIRST!

As someone who grew up with the original Lilo & Stitch, I wasn't sure what to expect from the 2025 remake-but wow, this movie absolutely delivered. It's heartfelt, beautifully made, and captures the spirit of the original while adding just the right amount of freshness.

This is the kind of remake we actually want-one made with care, love, and deep respect for the source material. The emotional themes about family, love, and belonging are still front and center, and they hit just as hard today as they did years ago. Lilo's story is just as touching, Stitch is just as chaotic and adorable, and the message of "ohana" still resonates powerfully.

Visually, the movie is stunning. The Hawaiian setting feels authentic and vibrant, and the design of Stitch and the other alien characters blends surprisingly well with the real-world elements. It never feels forced or overly modernized. The music also keeps that nostalgic charm with new energy.

I could tell the creators worked hard on this. It's not a cash grab-it's a genuine love letter to fans old and new. Whether you've seen the original or not, this remake stands tall on its own.

This is probably the best Disney remake so far. 10/10. It's emotional, entertaining, and full of heart. A true example of how remakes should be.