Disney’s insatiable quest to mine its own intellectual property continues with the release of this live-action remake of the beloved animated film, Lilo & Stitch, which originally premiered just 23 years ago. This timeframe has allowed for a new generation of potential fans to emerge, while also tapping into the nostalgia of those who grew up immersed in the charm of the original movie, as well as its three direct-to-video sequels and three television series.
From a creative standpoint, there is little justification for the existence of this new version of Lilo & Stitch. The animated character of Stitch still plays a significant role, which raises questions about the necessity of the live-action format. However, the commercial motivations are clear, especially considering the potential popularity of Stitch's plush toy version, which is expected to be a hot item on many children’s Christmas lists this year. As long as external factors, such as Trump's tariffs, do not hinder toy availability, Disney is poised for financial success.
Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, known for his acclaimed indie film Marcel the Shell With Shoes On, this adaptation marks his transition to the big-budget realm, with a reported production cost of $100 million. The live-action Lilo & Stitch maintains enough fidelity to the original story to satisfy traditionalists while incorporating fresh elements that breathe new life into the narrative.
One of the most notable changes in this live-action version is the emotional depth added to the relationship between the six-year-old Hawaiian orphan, Lilo, portrayed by Maia Kealoha, and her older sister, Nani, played by Sydney Elizabeth Agudong. The film delves into Nani’s struggles to maintain her guardianship amid financial hardships and Lilo’s rebellious behavior, resulting in a richer narrative experience.
The story kicks off with an engaging sequence set on a planet governed by the United Galactic Federation, led by the formidable Grand Councilwoman, portrayed by Hannah Waddingham. Unfortunately, the CGI animation during this opening scene may leave some viewers longing for the charm of live-action performances. In this introduction, we meet Stitch, voiced by Chris Sanders, who reprises his role from the original film as the mischievous, destruction-loving alien created by the mad scientist Dr. Jumba Jookiba, played by Zach Galifianakis.
After a narrow escape from exile, Stitch finds his way to Earth, specifically Hawaii, where he is pursued by Jumba and Agent Pleakley, portrayed by Billy Magnussen. The duo manages to take on human forms, allowing the actors to showcase their comedic talents as they awkwardly adapt to their new bodies. Meanwhile, Stitch ends up in an animal shelter, where he is mistakenly adopted by Lilo, adding a humorous twist to the storyline.
The initial interactions between Lilo and Stitch are comical and chaotic, thanks to Stitch's penchant for causing mayhem. However, as the story progresses, their bond deepens, with Lilo teaching Stitch the meaning of family through the iconic phrase, “Ohana means family.” This heartfelt connection is at the core of the film, making it relatable to audiences of all ages.
With plenty of madcap events, fast-paced chases, and thrilling situations, the film's runtime extends to 108 minutes compared to the original's 85 minutes. While some adult viewers may find the visual chaos overwhelming, younger audiences are likely to be captivated by the vibrant action and humor. Fans of the original film will appreciate the numerous nostalgic nods, such as the appearances of Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the original, and Jason Scott Lee, reprising his role as Nani’s surfer friend David.
Additionally, the live-action remake introduces several new characters, including David’s spirited grandmother, played by Amy Hill, and Cobra Bubbles, a federal agent portrayed by Courtney B. Vance, who is on a mission to track down Stitch. The character’s name is a delightful callback to the original film's social worker, adding an extra layer of nostalgia for long-time fans.
While it remains to be seen if Lilo & Stitch will secure a place among the top-tier Disney family films—especially considering that it was initially slated for direct-to-streaming—the film is expected to perform well at the box office, particularly as it launches during the busy summer season. This live-action adaptation may not be groundbreaking, but it promises to entertain a new generation of fans and reignite the love for the original.
