Lilo & Stitch
Joyful, Heartfelt, and Visually Dazzling
Movie Review: Lilo & Stitch (2025)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5/5 stars)
Disney’s 2025 live-action reimagining of Lilo & Stitch is a joyful, heartfelt, and visually dazzling update that captures the spirit of the original while adding fresh layers of emotional depth and cultural authenticity. Balancing humor, sci-fi chaos, and tender family drama, the film honors its animated predecessor while confidently charting its own course.
At the center of the story is young Maia Kealoha as Lilo, whose performance is nothing short of magnetic. She brings spunk, vulnerability, and a fierce sense of loyalty to the role, making the character feel both timeless and deeply real. Newcomer Stephen Hadhazi voices Stitch with a perfect blend of mischief and charm, bringing the blue alien to life with expressive CGI that feels both believable and full of personality.
The casting of Hualālai Chung and Mason Manuma grounds the film in genuine Hawaiian representation, a much-welcome improvement from the original. The island setting is more than just a backdrop—it's a living, breathing part of the story, captured through lush cinematography and infused with local culture and language in a way that feels respectful and authentic.
The relationship between Lilo and her sister Nani (Genesis Molina) remains the emotional heart of the story, and this version beautifully deepens their bond, giving more space to explore the challenges of holding a family together after loss. Their struggle is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, making the moments of reconciliation all the more powerful.
Director Dean Fleischer Camp (of Marcel the Shell with Shoes On) brings a grounded, tactile warmth to the film. While the CGI-heavy sequences are thrilling and fun—especially Stitch’s manic escapes and spaceship chases—the film never loses sight of its emotional core: the meaning of ‘ohana (family).
Musically, the film retains the spirit of the original with classic Elvis tracks, while introducing new Hawaiian-influenced songs that enhance the setting and story. The tone is a perfect balance of comedy and heart, appealing to kids while offering deeper themes for older viewers.
At 108 minutes, Lilo & Stitch moves at a breezy pace, with just enough time to let the emotional beats breathe. While purists may miss some of the zanier cartoon moments, this reimagining earns its place with sincerity, warmth, and a deep respect for its characters and culture.
In short, this live-action Lilo & Stitch is a triumph—funny, moving, and brimming with heart. It’s a film that reminds us that family can be found in the most unexpected places, and sometimes, the weirdest ones are the most unforgettable.