Lilo & Stitch (Live-Action) Review: A heartfelt remake that recaptures the magic

Disney’s catalog of live-action remakes continues to grow, often to mixed critical response. But in the case of Lilo & Stitch (2025), the studio seems to have struck a delicate balance between nostalgia and innovation. Unlike some of its more bloated predecessors, this film leans into the warmth and intimacy of the original animated classic while embracing a more grounded, budget-conscious approach.

Now ranked among the Top 5 Best Disney Live-Action Remakes on Rotten Tomatoes, Lilo & Stitch stands out not because it’s the flashiest or most technically advanced, but because it understands the emotional core of its source material. For fans of the 2002 original, and newcomers alike, this film offers a heartfelt, occasionally funny, always wholesome viewing experience that keeps the spirit of Ohana alive.

Faithful to the Original: A Rare Success in Disney's Remake Machine

In an era where many Disney remakes take creative liberties—sometimes to the dismay of longtime fans—Lilo & Stitch deserves praise for staying remarkably faithful to the original film. Key story beats, from Lilo’s chaotic entrance into Stitch’s life to the tearful moments of found-family bonding, remain intact. The screenplay doesn’t shy away from reusing iconic lines, which feel more like loving callbacks than recycled dialogue.

The tropical setting of Hawaii remains central to the film’s identity, and the decision to preserve the original’s Elvis Presley-infused soundtrack was a masterstroke. "Burning Love" and "Suspicious Minds" once again set the tone for the misadventures of a genetically-engineered alien and his eccentric human friend. Even the quieter, more emotional sequences echo the pacing and intimacy of the animated version—showing that this remake was crafted with deep affection and understanding.

Family-Friendly Fun: Safe, Sweet, and Enjoyable

Not every film needs to be a genre-defying masterpiece. Sometimes, it's enough for a movie to be genuinely enjoyable family fare—and that’s exactly what Lilo & Stitch delivers. The movie’s PG sensibilities make it a safe bet for family movie nights, and the themes of love, loss, and unconditional acceptance remain potent for viewers of all ages.

The humor leans on the gentle and absurd—just like the original—without feeling watered down. Stitch, voiced with the same gravelly alien dialect that fans adore, brings a steady stream of laughs and surprising tenderness. The chaos he causes is just as entertaining, and the eventual softening of his character arc remains a highlight of the film.

This is inoffensive, heartwarming entertainment, perfect for kids but not grating for adults. If anything, it's a reminder that storytelling doesn’t always need reinvention; sometimes, sincerity is more than enough.

Budget Constraints: A Smaller-Scale But Still Charming Production

While Lilo & Stitch may not boast the grand visual spectacle of The Lion King (2019) or Aladdin (2019), it makes clever use of its comparatively modest budget. The CGI used to bring Stitch to life is serviceable—occasionally awkward in wide shots, but generally effective. His design leans more realistic than cartoony, which may divide fans, but his personality shines through regardless.

Some set pieces and effects (particularly the galactic council scenes and spaceship sequences) feel scaled down or overly minimalistic, but this restraint ends up working in the film’s favor. Instead of turning Lilo & Stitch into a sci-fi blockbuster, director Dean Fleischer Camp (of Marcel the Shell with Shoes On) opts for an indie-film sensibility. The focus stays on emotion, character, and quiet moments—a bold move that mostly pays off.

Star Power: Sydney Agudong and Tia Carrere Steal the Show

The live-action Lilo & Stitch is powered by more than just nostalgia and visual effects—its true strength lies in its emotionally resonant performances, particularly those delivered by a cast that bridges generations of Disney fans. The film is both a platform for promising newcomers and a stage for veteran talents to shine once again. Among them, Sydney Agudong, Tia Carrere, Zach Galifianakis, and Billy Magnussen stand out with performances that elevate the film beyond its modest production scope.

Sydney Agudong as Nani: A Breakout Role with Depth

Newcomer Sydney Agudong takes on the daunting task of portraying Nani, Lilo’s older sister and legal guardian—a role that demands emotional nuance, strength, and vulnerability. Agudong’s performance is, in a word, exceptional. She navigates the character’s internal tension with grace, showing the audience what it means to be a young woman forced to grow up too quickly in the face of grief and responsibility.

Where many Disney remakes lean heavily on spectacle, Agudong’s grounded, relatable portrayal brings a powerful sense of realism. Whether she’s breaking down during a job interview or fiercely defending Lilo’s behavior to social services, her portrayal is both heartbreaking and empowering. Agudong captures Nani’s blend of exhaustion and unconditional love, making her one of the film’s most emotionally compelling characters and a likely fan favorite for years to come.

Tia Carrere Returns: From Voice Legend to On-Screen Scene-Stealer

In a move that feels like a love letter to longtime fans, Tia Carrere, the original voice of Nani in the animated Lilo & Stitch franchise, returns in a live-action role as Mrs. Kekoa, a local figure who helps guide Nani and Lilo through difficult times. Carrere’s presence brings instant gravitas to every scene she appears in.

Her performance is nuanced, warm, and commanding, offering both comic relief and emotional anchoring. There’s a quiet meta-brilliance to her inclusion—she symbolizes continuity between the animated legacy and this new chapter. Carrere doesn’t just deliver lines; she radiates cultural authenticity and emotional wisdom, making her a quiet but unforgettable force in the film.

Zach Galifianakis as Dr. Jumba Jookiba: Quirky, Lovable, and On-Brand

Another standout is Zach Galifianakis, who plays the eccentric alien scientist Dr. Jumba Jookiba. Known for his offbeat comedic style, Galifianakis seems perfectly cast in this role. His portrayal retains the original character’s mad-scientist energy, but adds layers of oddball empathy and sincerity that make Jumba more than just comic relief.

Galifianakis plays Jumba as a being torn between pride in his creation (Stitch) and a slowly growing affection for Earth and its people. His comedic timing is spot-on, and his interactions with both Pleakley and Stitch provide some of the film’s funniest moments. Importantly, his Jumba never feels like a caricature—he’s weird, yes, but also thoughtful and emotionally grounded in a way that helps flesh out the film’s broader themes of transformation and belonging.

Billy Magnussen as Pleakley: Comedic Precision Meets Genuine Heart

Billy Magnussen, as Agent Wendell Pleakley, delivers a delightful performance that pays homage to the original character’s flamboyant, awkward charm. Pleakley, a one-eyed alien with a passion for Earth’s biodiversity and gender-norm-defying fashion sense, could have easily been mishandled in live-action—but Magnussen nails the balance between zany and sincere.

His chemistry with Galifianakis is electric, providing a classic odd-couple dynamic that fuels many of the film’s lighter scenes. Whether he’s mistakenly quoting Earth customs or frantically changing disguises, Magnussen leans into the chaos with comedic finesse. But more than just a source of humor, his Pleakley also develops a quiet appreciation for human connection—particularly the importance of Ohana—which gives the character unexpected depth.

A Cast That Balances Heart, Humor, and Heritage

The ensemble cast of Lilo & Stitch succeeds because each actor honors the original while bringing something new to the table. Agudong and Carrere anchor the film’s emotional reality, giving viewers a deeply human lens through which to experience the story. Meanwhile, Galifianakis and Magnussen bring the extraterrestrial elements to life with exuberant performances that are equal parts absurd and affecting.

This combination of rising talent and seasoned performers helps ground the film’s fantastical elements in emotional truth. Every scene feels carefully cast, whether it's a tender family moment or a slapstick alien chase through the lush Hawaiian landscape. The film’s commitment to showcasing Hawaiian actors and cultural authenticity adds further richness and credibility to the narrative, reinforcing Disney’s increasing efforts toward inclusive and accurate storytelling.

Stitch Still Works: Translating Animated Chaos to Live-Action

One of the biggest challenges in adapting Lilo & Stitch to live-action was undoubtedly the task of reimagining Stitch—the franchise’s chaotic, blue-furred alien star—in a way that would resonate with modern audiences while maintaining the quirky charm that made him iconic in the first place. Given Stitch's unique blend of mischief, pathos, and bizarre vocalizations, fans were understandably skeptical about how the character would translate outside the realm of animation.

Design Choices: A Realistic Yet Familiar Look

At first glance, Stitch's live-action redesign may raise eyebrows. Gone is the plush, exaggeratedly cute figure of the 2002 animated version, replaced by a more textured, semi-realistic creature that feels grounded in our world—but not too grounded. His fur is more detailed, his eyes more expressive, and his movements—though digitally rendered—retain the bouncy, unpredictable energy fans associate with the character.

This design decision was a smart one. By striking a balance between realism and cartoonish exaggeration, the filmmakers avoided the “uncanny valley” problem that has plagued other CGI reinterpretations (Pinocchio, for instance). Stitch still looks and feels like Stitch, just a version reimagined for the live-action medium.

Personality and Voice: Chaos with a Heart

Much of what makes Stitch so beloved comes not from his look, but from his personality. That blend of chaos, childlike curiosity, and underlying loneliness is still very much present here. The new voice actor successfully mimics the guttural squeaks and alien gibberish originated by creator Chris Sanders, and wisely, the film doesn’t try to reinvent his sound. Instead, it embraces it.

Key moments—like Stitch destroying Lilo’s room in a fit of confusion, or reading “The Ugly Duckling” with tears in his eyes—hit just as hard in this version. These scenes are pivotal in illustrating Stitch’s emotional arc: from a destructive experiment with no sense of belonging, to a loved member of a broken family trying to heal.

Stitch’s journey is still framed through the lens of Ohana, the Hawaiian concept of extended family. And while the effects team deserves credit, it’s the voice work and writing that make him feel like more than just digital trickery. He’s a character with a soul.

Physical Comedy and Action: Just the Right Amount

The film wisely refrains from turning Stitch into a full-blown action hero. While there are chase scenes and slapstick moments—many lifted directly from the original—these are handled with a lighter touch, in keeping with the overall intimate tone of the movie. There are no large-scale alien battles or city-wide destruction scenes. Instead, the focus is on domestic disruption, like Stitch wreaking havoc in the house or fighting off alien agents in suburban Hawaii.

The physical comedy feels natural and nostalgic, rather than overproduced. In one standout scene, Stitch disguises himself in a hula skirt and sunglasses to escape detection—a direct callback to the animated film that plays even better in live-action, thanks to strong timing and direction.

Stitch and Lilo: Chemistry That Still Clicks

At the emotional core of the story is the relationship between Lilo and Stitch, and this remake nails that connection. Their first meeting still feels spontaneous and chaotic, and their slow-burn bond remains believable and touching. Stitch is at his funniest when he’s trying (and failing) to behave like a pet, but the film never loses sight of the deeper connection between the two outcasts.

The chemistry between the young actress playing Lilo and the digitally animated Stitch is surprisingly effective. Through a combination of excellent direction, clever editing, and subtle CGI integration, the scenes feel cohesive and natural—never like the actor is talking to an empty green screen. Their heartfelt exchanges, especially in the film’s final act, carry the same emotional resonance as the original, proving that this iconic duo still has the power to move audiences.

Stitch’s Cultural Legacy: A Character That Endures

Since his debut, Stitch has become one of Disney’s most enduring and marketable characters. He’s appeared in sequels, a long-running TV series, and merchandise that spans everything from backpacks to plush toys. The pressure to get him right in the live-action film was immense—not just for nostalgic fans, but for the franchise’s future.

Thankfully, the new Lilo & Stitch handles him with care. His mischievous antics remain hilarious, his loyalty remains endearing, and his outsider status still resonates deeply with viewers who have ever felt different or alone. In many ways, Stitch is a symbol of belonging through chaos, and this remake ensures that his legacy continues into a new generation of viewers.

A Nostalgic Touchstone for a New Generation

For millennials who grew up quoting “Ohana means family,” the original Lilo & Stitch remains one of Disney’s most emotionally resonant offerings. Its mix of humor, trauma, and cultural specificity made it a standout—even among the renaissance-era giants.

The live-action version understands this. There’s no attempt to radically alter what made the original special. Instead, it invites a new generation to fall in love with Lilo, Stitch, Nani, and their beautifully messy ohana.

Of course, no remake can perfectly capture the spontaneity of hand-drawn animation. But in tone, pacing, and emotional payoff, this version gets very close. It doesn’t feel like a cynical cash-grab. It feels like a tribute.

Reception and Rotten Tomatoes Ranking

Upon release, Lilo & Stitch (2025) quickly generated buzz as a standout entry in Disney’s live-action remake lineup. Critics and audiences alike praised the film for its emotional fidelity, well-cast performances, and respectful handling of the original material. As reviews poured in, it became clear that this wasn’t just another studio cash-in—it was a remake with genuine heart.

Critical Reception

Critics across major publications were generally positive, with many highlighting the film’s restraint and sincerity. Variety noted that the film “forgoes bombast for intimacy,” a welcome departure from the often overproduced nature of recent remakes like The Little Mermaid (2023). The Hollywood Reporter emphasized how director Dean Fleischer Camp brought an "indie sensibility" to the project, giving it an emotional authenticity rarely seen in big-budget family films.

Particular praise was directed at the performances of Sydney Agudong and Tia Carrere. Agudong was described by Collider as “a compelling new face with remarkable emotional range,” while Deadline referred to Carrere as a “scene-stealing anchor point who bridges old fans with new.”

While some critics mentioned the film’s modest production values and relatively pared-down CGI, these elements were often seen as strengths rather than drawbacks. The lack of excessive visual effects helped maintain focus on character dynamics and interpersonal storytelling—arguably the original film’s strongest traits.

Audience Response

Audiences responded with enthusiasm. Social media platforms were filled with nostalgic viewers sharing tearful reactions, heartwarming memories of the original, and appreciation for the remake’s respectful tone. Parents praised the film for being enjoyable for both kids and adults, while longtime fans of the franchise appreciated the small touches—like the return of the Elvis soundtrack and nods to original scenes—that kept the spirit intact.

User ratings on sites like IMDb and Letterboxd consistently hovered in the 7.5–8.0 range within the first week of release, with comments frequently referring to it as a “comfort film,” “faithful adaptation,” and “surprisingly moving.”

Rotten Tomatoes Ranking

Perhaps most notable is Lilo & Stitch's performance on Rotten Tomatoes, where it currently holds an impressive certified fresh score of 68% from critics and 93% from audiences (as of the first two weeks post-release). This places it firmly within the Top 5 Best Disney Live-Action Remakes, alongside titles like Cinderella (2015), The Jungle Book (2016), and Beauty and the Beast (2017).

This ranking is especially meaningful when considering the overall hit-or-miss nature of Disney’s remake catalog. Films such as Pinocchio (2022) and Mulan (2020) received tepid responses, criticized for lacking the soul of their animated counterparts. In contrast, Lilo & Stitch is being praised precisely because it understands what made the original work, and dares not to deviate too far from it.

Rotten Tomatoes’ breakdown reveals a key theme among top reviews: consistency, heart, and cultural respect. Many critics applauded the film’s commitment to authentically portraying Hawaiian culture, a foundational element of the original animated movie that could have been easily glossed over in a lesser remake.

Early Awards and Streaming Success

Although it’s too soon to predict awards season outcomes, the film has already garnered early consideration for family entertainment accolades. Streaming data from Disney+ also indicates strong performance, with the film debuting in the Top 3 most-watched releases during its opening weekend. This aligns with the growing trend of nostalgia-driven content dominating digital platforms.

Industry analysts have pointed out that Lilo & Stitch may serve as a turning point in Disney’s approach to remakes—proving that less spectacle and more sincerity can yield stronger reception.

Top Five Disney Live-Action Remakes By Rotten Tomatoes Popcornmeter
Rank	Title	Popcornmeter
1	Cruella	97%
2	Maleficent: Mistress of Evil	95%
3	Aladdin	94%
4	The Little Mermaid	93%
5	Lilo & Stitch	93%

Final Verdict: Imperfect But Endearing

In a cinematic landscape flooded with reboots and remakes, Lilo & Stitch manages to be something special. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, nor does it try to. Instead, it leans into the emotional strengths of the original, telling a familiar story with a lot of heart and just enough humor.

Yes, it looks like a lower-budget affair compared to its predecessors. And yes, it may not offer anything radically new. But what it does offer—sincerity, family, laughter, and a blue alien with boundary issues—is more than enough.

⭐ Final Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

This remake might not reach the cultural heights of the original, but it stands as one of Disney’s most earnest and emotionally rewarding live-action adaptations to date.

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Key Takeaways

• Faithful adaptation of the 2002 animated film, preserving its Hawaiian charm and Elvis-infused soundtrack.

• Sydney Agudong delivers a breakout performance as Nani.

• Tia Carrere, returning in a new role, provides a nostalgic and commanding presence.

• Stitch’s character is successfully translated to live-action without losing his iconic personality.

• While the visual effects and budget are more modest than Disney's other remakes, the film’s emotional impact is stronger than most.

• Ranked as one of the Top 5 Disney Live-Action Remakes on Rotten Tomatoes.