Director Dean Fleischer Camp‘s “Lilo & Stitch,” the live action remake of 2002’s modern animated classic, is a delightfully heartwarming, family-friendly gem that rises above many of Disney’s recent remakes. It stays true to the quirky charm of the original while adding a fresh layer of emotional depth and cheerful visual effects that are sure to resonate with both longtime fans and a new generation alike.
Narratively, the movie sticks close to the animated original. After the death of their parents, Nani (Sydney Agudong) and her younger sister Lilo (Maia Kealoha) are doing the best they can by living and surviving on their own in their Hawaiian home. With a social worker (Tia Carrere) skeptical of their arrangements, it’s not looking good for the two to stay together, despite help from their kind neighbor Tutu (Amy Hill). Bullied by her classmates and lonely, Lilo befriends a runaway alien experiment (voice of Chris Sanders), and their journey together helps mend her fragmented family.
This version of the story leans even deeper into themes of loss, healing, and cultural identity, emphasizing the Hawaiian concept of ohana (family) not just in word but in emotional practice. Whether your family is by blood or chosen, the film reminds us that true family protects, encourages, and never gives up on one another. It’s a feel-good message that’s conveyed really well here.
One of the highlights of the film is Stitch himself. Yes, he’s animated, but you’d never know it. He’s so vividly brought to life that he feels entirely real, down to every fuzzy twitch and chaotic grin. Stitch is absolutely adorable, a he becomes a true scene-stealer with every squeak, snarl, and cuddle. His on-screen chemistry with Kealoha is magical, especially as she delivers a terrific performance that’s full of charm, vulnerability, and fierce spirit. The casting across the board is terrific, with each character thoughtfully brought to life in a way that feels faithful yet fresh. Even Billy Magnussen and Zach Galifianakis add a burst of goofy comic relief as aliens disguised as humans (a situation that’s guaranteed to get the little ones giggling).
Visually, the film is lush and colorful, capturing the vibrancy of Hawaiian landscapes and culture with respect and beauty. The islands feature prominently in the film, and traditions and customs are incorporated into the story.
Through its themes, the film offers several teachable moments. The message that people (or aliens) who sometimes behave badly aren’t necessarily bad at heart is repeated perhaps a few too many times, but it’s an important and compassionate one (especially for younger viewers). In a world that often labels mistakes as failures, the film offers a powerful counter-message that what matters is trying to grow, to do better, and to hold onto those who love you.
The movie is clearly setting itself up for a sequel by the end, and I really hope we get one. Camp has built a world full of heart, laughter, and potential, and this is precisely the kind of positive message and good vibes the world could use right now. This is a family-friendly adventure that will please most everyone.
“Lilo & Stitch” is one of the better Disney live action remakes. This sweet, sincere, and touching film has a strong core of positive messages, and you’d have to have a heart of stone not to be charmed by it. This is a film that celebrates misfits, mending hearts, and the unbreakable bonds of ohana.
