Lilo & Stitch Movie Review: A Journey Back to Childhood

Disney once again brings audiences back to the sunny Hawaiian islands through the live-action version of Lilo & Stitch (2002), a work that once captured the hearts of viewers with its message about family – “ohana”. This new film is not only a nostalgic journey but also brings new colors, just enough to please longtime fans, just enough to attract the younger generation of audiences. But is the magic of “ohana” still intact like the original, or is it just a pale copy of the animated masterpiece of the past?

About the movie Lilo & Stitch

Introduction to the movie Lilo & Stitch — This new film is not only a nostalgic journey but also brings new colors.

Genre: Adventure, Family, Science Fiction

Release date: May 23, 2025

Duration: 107 minutes

Age limit: P

Cast: Maia Kealoha, Chris Sanders, Sydney Agudong, Billy Magnussen, Tia Carrere.

Director: Dean Fleischer Camp.

Producers: Dan Lin, Jonathan Eirich.

Lilo & Stitch Movie Review

The film still retains the Ohana spirit - Still brilliant, but with its own unique style

At its core, Lilo & Stitch is the heartwarming story of Lilo, an orphan girl in Hawaii, and Stitch, an alien created for destruction who finds a sense of family. The film follows the journey of Lilo (Maia Kealoha) and her sister Nani (Sydney Elizabeth Agudong) as they face challenges after the loss of their family. Lilo adopts Stitch, and from there, the two learn to build an “ohana” – imperfect, but full of love and acceptance.

Compared to the original, the live-action version delves deeper into the relationship between Lilo and Nani, emphasizing the pressures Nani faces as both an older sister and a guardian. The moments when Nani struggles to keep Lilo away from the social worker's supervision are emotionally portrayed, bringing new depth to the story. However, the film's pacing in the beginning is a bit rushed, causing some emotional details to not be fully exploited. However, the message of "ohana" - family does not abandon each other - is still strongly conveyed, especially through the warm scenes between Lilo and Stitch, making the audience emotional.

A shining show of new actors

Maia Kealoha, in her first foray into film, brings a memorable Lilo. She portrays a Lilo who is both innocent and stubborn, with genuine eyes and smiles that melt the hearts of viewers. The scenes where Lilo interacts with Stitch – from tantrums to bonding – exude a naturalness that makes it easy for the audience to love this character from the start. Sydney Elizabeth Agudong is equally impressive as Nani, bringing the image of a strong but vulnerable older sister, especially in the scenes facing pressure from society and family responsibilities.

The supporting roles, however, are a point of contention. Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen as Jumba and Pleakley provide comic energy, but turning them into humans instead of the original's goofy disguises takes away some of their signature charm. Chris Sanders, who voices Stitch, is still playful and lovable, but supporting characters like Cobra Bubbles (Courtney B. Vance) are sadly under-rendered. New characters like Tūtū (Amy Hill) and Mrs. Kekoa (Tia Carrere) add to the Hawaiian cultural scene, but don't leave a lasting impression.

Both the effects and sound are meticulously invested.

The Hawaiian setting is brought to life through real-life footage shot on Kauai, combined with smooth CGI. From the turquoise beaches to the rainforests and small towns, every frame is imbued with Hawaii, from traditional hula dancing to local festivals. Stitch, created entirely with CGI, retains the cute and playful nature of the original with lively expressions, from mischievous glances to humorously awkward moments. Action scenes, such as Stitch escaping from the spaceship, are executed smoothly, although at times there is a “Hollywood” feel that takes away some of the rusticity of the original.

The music is another highlight. Iconic songs like Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride and Aloha 'Oe are updated but still retain their original spirit, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The new song He Lei Pāpahi No Lilo a me Stitch is refreshing, though it doesn't quite surpass the original tracks. Dan Romer's score blends Hawaiian sounds with sci-fi melodies, creating an atmosphere that's both adventurous and warm.

There are many Easter Eggs in the movie.

The live-action Lilo & Stitch is full of interesting hidden details that will delight fans of the original. A poster of Mulan (1998) appears briefly in Lilo's room, as Disney pays homage to its classics. In a beach scene, a surfer wearing a shirt with the logo of Gantu - the villain from the original - is a small but meaningful detail. In particular, the Ohana Means Family book on the table in Lilo's house or the whale toy that reminds of Pudge - the fish Lilo believes "controls the weather" - are moments that will make longtime fans smile. Lilo's hula also recreates an exact move from the original, as a subtle greeting from the filmmakers.

Summary of the movie Lilo & Stitch

The live-action Lilo & Stitch is a love letter to Hawaiian culture and its message of family. The film manages to stay true to the spirit of the original while updating the story for a modern audience. While it has some flaws, like a rushed pacing in the beginning and changes to some of the supporting characters, it is still a complete, emotional, and worthwhile experience. With strong acting, vibrant visuals, and meaningful hidden details, this is a great choice for the whole family this summer. Head to the theaters to experience “ohana” in a new way, but still very much Lilo & Stitch!

Review of Lilo & Stitch movie content

The live-action film Lilo & Stitch continues the touching story of friendship between a young Hawaiian girl, Lilo, and an alien named Stitch. Created in a laboratory, Stitch was initially a troublesome creature, with mischievous and destructive actions. However, when Lilo discovered that Stitch was actually lonely and in need of love, she decided to adopt Stitch as her pet.

During their journey together, Lilo not only teaches Stitch about love and acceptance, but also helps him find the meaning of family and friendship. The story shows a deep connection between the two characters, exploring themes of love, acceptance, and the value of family.

This live action version not only brings realistic and lovely images but also retains the spirit of the original animation, attracting thousands of viewers. With a combination of humorous and touching elements, Lilo & Stitch promises to be a great cinematic experience for the whole family.

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