Lilo & Stitch is a 2025 American science fiction comedy film directed by Dean Fleischer Camp and written by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes. Produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Rideback, the film is a live-action animated remake of Disney’s 2002 animated film Lilo & Stitch.
Review
In a sea of live-action remakes of what are now considered modern Disney classics, the studio once again attempts to recapture the magic. Following a string of underwhelming box office performances and social controversy surrounding previous adaptations, Lilo & Stitch arrives hoping to replicate the success of the Sonic franchise.
Let’s begin with the visuals. From Dr. Jumbaa Jookiba and the Grand Councilwoman to Agent Pleakley and Stitch himself, the film largely succeeds in bringing these beloved characters to life. It’s clear Hollywood took notes from the near-catastrophe in the past with the visuals of converting animated characters to live-action. The result? A live-action Stitch that blends seamlessly with the human cast, retaining the charm and chaos fans expect.
Casting is mostly spot on, with a few exceptions. The portrayals of David, Nani, and young Lilo are perfect—capturing both the spirit and heart of their animated counterparts. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for Dr. Jookiba and Cobra Bubbles. Zach Galifianakis feels miscast, his performance as Jookiba coming across as awkward and emotionally flat. Meanwhile, the decision to alter Cobra Bubbles’ backstory weakens his role and introduces plot inconsistencies that may hinder potential sequels.
Narratively, the film treads familiar ground, closely following the emotional journey of the 2002 original. The heart of the story—the bond between Lilo and Stitch and the importance of found family—remains intact. Lightly modernized, the film manages to feel timeless rather than trend-chasing, wisely focusing on core themes instead of unnecessary updates. Stitch’s signature brand of chaos is ever-present, delivering the kind of energetic mischief that made him a fan favorite in the first place.
Lilo & Stitch is an ideal kick-off to the summer movie season—a family-friendly outing that introduces a new generation to a franchise that has endured for over two decades. It’s a rare win for Disney in the live-action arena, and one the studio sorely needed. Lilo & Stitch opens in theaters Memorial Day weekend.
© 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.