Lilo & Stitch Remake Review: Heart of Ohana, but a Familiar Feeling,

Lilo & Stitch (2025) – Movie Details and Full Review

Synopsis
This live-action/CGI remake of Disney’s 2002 animated classic follows Lilo Pelekai (Maia Kealoha), a six-year-old Hawaiian girl grieving her parents’ death, and her older sister Nani (Sydney Elizebeth Agudong), who struggles as her guardian. Lilo adopts a chaotic “dog” named Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders), unaware he’s Experiment 626, a destructive alien fugitive created by Jumba (Zach Galifianakis). As Stitch hides from pursuers Jumba and Pleakley (Billy Magnussen), sent by the Grand Councilwoman (Hannah Waddingham), his bond with Lilo transforms him from a menace to a family member. The story explores “ohana” (Hawaiian for family), grief, and belonging, set against vibrant Hawaiian backdrops. Notable changes include a deeper focus on Nani’s emotional arc, the removal of antagonist Gantu, and Jumba as the primary villain, adding a personal conflict. The film ends with Stitch embraced as family, reinforcing “nobody gets left behind.” Lilo & Stitch 2025 Movie Review

Full Review
Disney’s Lilo & Stitch (2025) is a live-action reimagining of the beloved 2002 animated film, blending heart, humor, and Hawaiian culture with mixed results. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On), it’s one of Disney’s stronger live-action remakes, praised for its emotional core and charming leads, but criticized for losing the original’s quirky magic and frenetic energy. With a 68% “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes (148 reviews), it’s a faithful yet safe adaptation that entertains but doesn’t surpass its predecessor.

Strengths

1. Emotional Core and Performances: The sisterly bond between Lilo and Nani is the film’s heart, amplified by Maia Kealoha’s star-making debut as Lilo and Sydney Elizebeth Agudong’s nuanced portrayal of Nani. Kealoha’s infectious energy and emotional depth shine, especially in tearful scenes, while Agudong grounds Nani’s struggles as a reluctant caretaker balancing dreams and duty. Their chemistry elevates the film, making the threat of separation by social services (Mrs. Kekoa, played by Tia Carrere) genuinely moving.
2. Stitch’s Design and Voice: Chris Sanders’ return as Stitch’s voice ensures the character’s chaotic charm remains intact. The CGI Stitch, with hyper-realistic fur and expressive features, translates well to live-action, retaining his koala-like appeal. Kids and fans adore his antics, from destruction to heartfelt moments.
3. Hawaiian Culture: The film embraces Hawaiian settings and culture, with stunning visuals of Kaua‘i’s landscapes and authentic touches like hula and Elvis Presley’s music (e.g., “(You’re The) Devil in Disguise”). It incorporates local context, making it feel grounded despite the sci-fi elements.
4. Nods to the Original: Cameos by original cast members (Tia Carrere as Mrs. Kekoa, Jason Scott Lee as the luau manager, Amy Hill as Tutu) and references to iconic scenes (e.g., Stitch’s “I’m lost!” moment with The Ugly Duckling) delight fans. The film balances fidelity with fresh tweaks, like Nani’s expanded role.
5. Themes of Ohana: The film reinforces the original’s message of “ohana means family, nobody gets left behind,” resonating with audiences through Lilo’s grief and Stitch’s quest for belonging. It’s a family-friendly summer adventure with heart.

Weaknesses

1. Lost Magic and Pacing: The original’s whimsical, hand-drawn watercolor charm and spontaneous energy are diluted in this faster, louder remake. Critics note its “TikTok-style” editing rushes through emotional beats, leaving little time to connect with characters. The 108-minute runtime (vs. the original’s 85 minutes) feels padded with chaotic chases that disrupt the mood.
2. Pointless Changes: Alterations like splitting Cobra Bubbles’ role into a CIA agent (Courtney B. Vance) and a social worker (Mrs. Kekoa) weaken both characters’ impact. The removal of Gantu shifts antagonism to Jumba, but some feel it lacks the original’s stakes. Nani’s portrayal as a harsher caretaker in parts feels off, diminishing her warmth.
3. Uneven Comedy and Tone: The humor, while occasionally fun (e.g., Magnussen’s flamboyant Pleakley), lacks the original’s sharp wit. Jumba and Pleakley’s human disguises feel jarring, and their “cartoony” antics clash with the live-action realism. The third act’s clunky action sequences border on stressful rather than silly.
4. Less Vibrant Visuals: Replacing the original’s dreamy watercolor animation with standard CGI and live-action settings results in a “Disney Channel movie” blandness. Stitch’s chaos feels less impactful without the animated contrast, and some CGI aliens (e.g., Jumba’s design) look nightmarish.
5. Mixed Reception: Critics are divided, with some calling it a “soulless copy” (Vulture) or “ghastly misfire” (The Guardian), while others praise its heart (IGN, The Cinematic Reel). Audience reviews on X highlight Stitch and Lilo’s charm but note a lack of depth or nostalgia. It’s a hit with kids but less resonant for adults.

Critical Reception

• Positive Reviews: IGN calls it “one of the stronger results of Disney’s remake campaign,” praising its emotional depth and Nani-Lilo bond. The Cinematic Reel labels it a “family event of the summer” with exceptional performances. CinemaBlend appreciates its fresh perspective while honoring the original. Empire notes its reverence and strong leads.
• Negative Reviews: The Guardian slams it as a “heavily CG-augmented monstrosity,” criticizing its lack of charm. Vulture calls it a “shrill, soulless imitation” missing the original’s poetry. Next Best Picture notes pointless changes that weaken character personalities. Metacritic users find it “mopey” compared to the original’s fun.
• Audience Feedback: On X, fans like @TheReelCritique and @fernandiniguez praise its heart and visuals, while @BlackMajikMan90 calls it “inferior” but credits Lilo and Stitch. @amxndareviews notes it’s a “carbon copy” lacking the original’s pace. Rotten Tomatoes’ 68% score reflects this split, with audiences enjoying the family themes but missing the 2002 film’s magic.

Recommendation
Lilo & Stitch 2025 Movie is a heartfelt, if flawed, remake that shines brightest when focusing on Lilo, Nani, and Stitch. It’s a safe, family-friendly film that captures the spirit of “ohana” but softens the original’s quirky edges and emotional rawness. Ideal for kids, new viewers, and fans seeking a nostalgic hit, it’s less compelling for those attached to the 2002 classic’s irreverence. Watch it for Maia Kealoha’s breakout performance and Stitch’s adorable chaos, but temper expectations for the same magic. Best enjoyed with family on a summer outing, paired with a Stitch plushie.

Rating: 7/10
The film earns praise for its leads, cultural authenticity, and heart, but loses points for rushed pacing, uneven humor, and missing the original’s spark. A solid, charming effort, but not a classic.

Where to Watch

• Theaters: Currently playing (as of May 25, 2025); check Fandango for showtimes.
• Streaming: Expected on Disney+ (date TBD); check movies.disney.com/lilo-and-stitch-2025 for updates.
• Purchase/Rent: Pre-order on Fandango at Home for digital release.

Content Warning
Contains mild sci-fi violence (laser battles, chases, non-lethal chaos), slapstick comedy, and references to parental death. Some scenes (e.g., Lilo’s near-drowning, Stitch being hit by a trolley) may distress young kids. Language includes “h—,” four misuses of God’s name, and insults like “stupidhead.” Photosensitive viewers should note flashing lights.

Additional Notes

• The film omits Gantu to focus on Jumba as the antagonist, a choice director Dean Fleischer Camp said adds a “personal connection” to Stitch’s arc.
• Elvis Presley’s soundtrack and Hawaiian elements (e.g., hula, “aloha spirit”) remain central, with fans on X appreciating the cultural nod.
• Speculation about Lilo’s autism spectrum traits persists, as her social struggles and quirky beliefs are highlighted but not explicitly addressed.