Review: Lilo & Stitch (Live-action)
Disney’s live-action train has had its fair share of bumpy tracks but Lilo & Stitch might just be the smoothest ride yet.
This 2025 version follows the 2002 animated original closely, with a few new twists that might raise an eyebrow or two among long-time fans. There’s a brand-new character, Tūtū (Amy Hill) instead of the larger-than-life Gantu. Speaking of aliens: Jumba (Zach Galifianakis) and Pleakley (Billy Magnussen) are here but not quite as we remember them.
While the changes are understandable, their new interpretations feel dialed down, missing a bit of the unhinged energy that made them so iconic in the original. Still, they bring enough eccentricity to keep things fun.
But the real star? Maia Kealoha as Lilo. She’s all sass, heart, and chaotic genius, just like Lilo should be. Watching her felt like watching the animated character step right off the screen. And Stitch? Still the fluffy blue menace we know and love. Equal parts feral and adorable, he remains an intergalactic scene-stealer.
What this remake does beautifully and differently is deepen the emotional stakes. We get more backstory on the Pelekai sisters, especially Nani (Sydney Agudong) whose struggles hit even harder now. The film leans more into sisterhood and the weight of responsibility, adding emotional depth the original only hinted at.
At its core, Lilo & Stitch has always been about ohana, love, and the beautiful chaos of belonging. The live-action version doesn’t just honour that spirit; it expands on it, with quiet heartbreak, fierce loyalty, and tender moments that sneak up on you.
But then there’s the ending. Without spoiling anything: a key moment has been swapped out for something that feels cleaner, safer and frankly, less powerful.
It’s the kind of change that long-time fans (ourselves included) might find frustrating. The emotional punch is softened, and not in a way that serves the story.
Still, despite that stumble, the film has heart. And that’s more than we can say for most live-action remakes. It’s cheeky, tender, and unafraid to get a little weird — just like its beloved original.