Disney’s Lilo & Stitch (2025) returns in a live-action/CGI hybrid version that aims to recapture the magic of the original 2002 animated classic. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, this version attempts to balance nostalgia and new storytelling, bringing back beloved characters and adding fresh visual flair. In this Lilo & Stitch Movie Review, we’ll explore how well the remake honors the past, what it brings that’s new, and whether it succeeds as both a family film and a tribute to Hawaiian culture.
Plot Overview (Spoiler-Light)
Much like the animated original, the 2025 Lilo & Stitch centers on young Lilo (Maia Kealoha), a spirited girl from Kauaʻi, who adopts a strange creature—Experiment 626, better known as Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders)—after he crash-lands on Earth. As Lilo names him her dog, Stitch’s mischievous chaos ensues, putting the family, community, and Lilo’s older sister Nani (Sydney Elizebeth Agudong) in delicate emotional situations. With social services pressure in play and cultural identity themes in the background, the movie follows a familiar arc: chaos, bonding, and the message that family (ohana) is chosen as much as born into.
Direction, Cast & Performances
Director & Writers
Dean Fleischer Camp directs this remake, joined by writers Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes. The production is led by Dan Lin and Jonathan Eirich. Visual effects by Industrial Light & Magic bring the CGI Stitch to life alongside live-action human characters.
Cast Highlights
- Maia Kealoha makes her film debut as Lilo Pelekai, bringing youthful energy and innocence to a role beloved by fans of the original.
- Chris Sanders returns as the voice of Stitch, reprising his original role, adding continuity and a nostalgic emotional bridge.
- Sydney Elizebeth Agudong plays Nani, Lilo’s older sister, navigating adult responsibilities and grief.
- Supporting cast includes Billy Magnussen as Pleakley, Zach Galifianakis as Jumba, Courtney B. Vance, Hannah Waddingham, Tia Carrere, Amy Hill, and Jason Scott Lee in various roles.
Visuals, Tone & Themes
Visual Style
With a budget of about $100 million, Lilo & Stitch 2025 is visually lush. The mix of live environment, CGI creature effects, and vibrant Hawaiian landscapes gives it an immersive feel. Stitch in particular gets updated with motion, texture, and expressiveness that blend with the real settings.
Tone & Themes
The heart of Lilo & Stitch Movie Review is in the themes: family, belonging, and identity. “Ohana” remains central—the idea that family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten. Also, issues like grief, responsibility, and cultural representation appear throughout. While nostalgia is strong, so is the pressure on the film to respect and represent Hawaiian culture, which it attempts through cast choices and setting.
Box Office & Reception
Box Office Performance
The movie grossed over $1.037 billion worldwide, making it one of the biggest success stories of 2025 and the highest-grossing live-action/animated hybrid in history. It also broke Memorial Day weekend records.
Critical & Audience Response
Reviews are mixed to positive. Many appreciate the charm of the visuals and the warmth of the performances, especially from Maia Kealoha and the returning Stitch voice. Critics point out it adheres closely to the original’s script at times, sometimes too safely, with fewer surprises. Some fans note that character development and emotional depth are lighter than they expected.
What Works & What Doesn’t
What Works
- The emotional beats remain strong: siblings, community, and caring for the “other” (Stitch) are touching and well-handled.
- Visuals and effects do Stitch justice; the creature works in live-action settings better than many expected.
- Nostalgia is tangible without being overwhelming; original voice actors and supporting cast appearances help.
What Doesn’t
- Because so much of the original is retained, this remake risks being too familiar, with fewer new stakes or twist moments.
- Some characters (especially in supporting roles) don’t get as much depth as they could, making emotional moments feel safe rather than risky.
- Certain themes from the original—especially about loss, identity, and community—feel muted compared to the rawer animated version.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Nostalgic Connection – Stays true to the beloved 2002 animated classic.
- Strong Performances – Maia Kealoha shines as Lilo, and Chris Sanders’ return as Stitch adds authenticity.
- Visual Appeal – Stunning Hawaiian landscapes blended with high-quality CGI.
- Family Themes – The core message of “ohana” (family) is heartfelt and well-delivered.
- Box Office Success – Crossed the billion-dollar mark, proving wide audience appeal.
Cons
- Too Familiar – Sticks closely to the original, offering little new.
- Uneven Pacing – Some scenes feel rushed while others drag.
- Shallow Side Characters – Supporting roles lack depth and screen time.
- Muted Emotional Impact – Doesn’t hit the same raw emotional notes as the animated version.
- Mixed Critical Response – While audiences loved it, critics found it safe and predictable.
Final Verdict
If you grew up loving Lilo & Stitch, this remake will likely warm your heart. It hits many of the same beats, retains “ohana” at its core, and delivers strong visuals and charm. For new viewers, it’s a fun family film with alien mayhem, emotional moments, and plenty of laughs. It may not reinvent the story, but it respects it—and sometimes that’s exactly what fans want.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Lilo & Stitch 2025 about?
A young Hawaiian girl named Lilo adopts Stitch, an alien experiment, leading to chaos, family bonding, and ultimately lessons in belonging.
Who directs and writes the remake?
Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp; screenplay by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes.
Who plays Lilo in the 2025 version?
Maia Kealoha takes the role of Lilo Pelekai in her film debut.
Is Stitch voiced by the same actor as before?
Yes—Chris Sanders returns as the voice of Stitch.
How well did the film perform commercially?
It grossed over $1 billion globally, becoming one of Disney’s big hits of 2025.
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