Remaking a beloved animated movie in live-action is like flipping a coin. You never know what you’re gonna get. Fortunately, 2025’s Lilo & Stitch manages to avoid some of the pitfalls that have been plaguing recent Disney live-action remakes by sticking close to its animated roots. Essentially a photorealistic reskin, the live-action remake successfully captures the emotional heart that made the original such a beloved classic.
Visually, Lilo & Stitch does a tremendous job at translating its creatures’ designs into live-action. Steeped in nostalgia, the design of Stitch (Chris Sanders) works to great effect without veering into uncanny valley. Secondary characters such as Jumba (Zach Galifianakis) and Pleakly (Billy Magnussen) are also instantly recognisable, effectively serving dual roles as both antagonists as well as comic relief. Conversely, the cinematography boasts a duller palate especially compared to the visually inventive, handrawn animation of the original counterpart.
Keeping the spirit of Ohana alive, Lilo & Stitch’s cast delight with their performances. Portraying Lilo and Nani respectively, newcomer Maia Kealoha and Sydney Elizabeth Agudong share sweet, convincing sisterly chemistry. Crucial for the narrative of the film, the affectionate bond between the two adds to the film’s strength in telling a story about love, loss, and finding family in unlikely places.
While it doesn’t quite replace the 2002 original, Disney’s latest live-action adaptation works perfectly fine as a supplement to it. A charming revamp, there’s enough in this movie to make for an enjoyable time for those who adored the original. Arguably the most effective live-action remake across Disney’s filmography since 2015 Cinderella, Lilo & Stitch succeeds by sticking to the same formula as Cinderella did – stick to the source material.
