Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has officially screened to some press members, and the first reactions are flooding in. Those who love the 2002 animated film can finally take a sigh of relief—critics are labeling it one of the best live-action remakes Disney has done so far.
Critics Hail Stitch’s Appearance and Emotional Complexity
Critics’ Wendy Lee Szany went to social media site X to proclaim, “Lilo and Stitch is the best Disney live-action to date.” She was impressed with the film’s nostalgic appeal, comedic scenes, and emotional moments, praising the way it played old-school faithfully alongside new material.
Journalist Laura Sirikul also weighed in on X, calling the film “heartwarming” and praising the heightened emotional resonance between sisters Lilo and Nani. “Maia Kealoha is a STAR!” she also exclaimed, declaring live-action Stitch “magical” and better done than expected.
The Story: Ohana, Chaos, and Heart
Much like the original 2002 animated film, the new adaptation follows Lilo, a young Hawaiian girl struggling with the loss of her parents, and her bond with Stitch, a blue, chaotic alien fugitive she adopts. Together with her older sister Nani, Lilo teaches Stitch the meaning of family—or “ohana.” However, this new version reportedly expands on Lilo and Nani’s backstory, giving their characters more emotional depth and context.
A Solid Cast and Nostalgic Nods
The live-action adaptation boasts a solid, multicultural cast. Maia Kealoha plays Lilo, with Sydney Elizeeth Agudong as her older sister Nani. The supporting cast consists of:
- Zach Galifianakis as Dr. Jumba Jookiba
- Billy Magnussen as Agent Pleakley
- Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles
- Hannah Waddingham as the Grand Councilwoman
- Chris Sanders reprising the voice of Stitch
- Tia Carrere, who originally voiced Nani, showing up this time as a social worker
This delicate mix of new and recurring voices only served to fuel the enthusiasm of fans.
A Glimmer of Hope for Disney’s Live-Action Remakes
The good word about Lilo & Stitch is a welcome respite for Disney, particularly in the wake of its live-action Snow White remake’s underwhelming box office performance. That movie underperformed both critically with a 39% Rotten Tomatoes rating and financially with just $203 million at the box office against a large $240–270 million price tag.
Conversely, Lilo & Stitch has created a lot of buzz, especially following the initial glimpse of live-action Stitch that garnered a lot of positive reviews. Disney has sustained the buzz with innovative promotion, such as surprise movie pranks in cinemas and cross-sectional posters.
Early Box Office Projections Look Good
Before its release on May 23, 2025, Lilo & Stitch is expected to open well at the box office. A possible $120 million opening is estimated, despite its stiff competition from Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which also comes out the same week.
A Remake That Could Possibly Work
Disney’s live-action remake track record has been spotty, but Lilo & Stitch appears to be bucking the trend. With its true-to-form storytelling, enhanced character development, and nostalgic yet new visuals, the film could well turn into one of Disney’s biggest hits in live-action remakes in the past few years.
As fans eagerly wait for its official release, this much is certain—one of the world’s favorite tales of a girl, her sister, and their adopted alien is poised to steal hearts yet again.
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