Lilo & Stitch (2025) Review: A Nostalgic Reboot That Sticks Close to the Original

Fast forward to 2025, and the new version has landed. It’s shinier, more grounded, and Stitch is now fully CGI. But here’s the twist: instead of flipping the script, this remake leans hard into what made the original special. Here’s what we thought of Disney’s Lilo & Stitch (2025).

A beloved tale reimagined

Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch is basically a love letter to fans of the original. If you grew up watching the 2002 animated version, this remake feels familiar, warm, and full of memories.

Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the film sticks very closely to the original storyline. It's set in Kauaʻi, Hawaii, where Lilo, a quirky and misunderstood little girl, adopts what she thinks is a dog from the local shelter. Of course, that “dog” turns out to be Stitch, a wild alien experiment on the run from galactic authorities.

What’s cool (and maybe a little surprising) is just how much of the original movie is recreated almost exactly. From Lilo feeding Pudge the fish because “he controls the weather,” to Stitch building a tiny model of a city and pretending to be Godzilla. That said, this version doesn’t really try to reinvent the story. It’s more of a faithful remake than a bold reimagining. For some viewers, that’s a definite win as it offers a sense of comfort and nostalgia. However, those looking for fresh twists or deeper character development might find it a little too safe and familiar.

Still, the heart of the story—about family, loss, and finding connection in unexpected places hits just as hard. And the iconic message of ohana (“family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten”) still resonates in a big way.

Ohana on screen: casting that feels like family

One of the film’s biggest strengths lies in its casting, which brings both heart and authenticity to this beloved story.

Maia Kealoha, in her breakout role as Lilo, is an absolute standout. She brings just the right mix of eccentricity, emotional vulnerability, and fierce loyalty to the character, making Lilo feel as real and relatable as ever. Meanwhile, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong delivers a powerful performance as Nani, Lilo’s older sister and reluctant guardian. Agudong captures the weight of responsibility that comes with stepping into a parental role far too young, while still holding onto glimpses of her own youth and dreams.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Lilo & Stitch without Stitch himself. Still voiced by Chris Sanders, Stitch retains all the chaotic charm and mischievous energy fans remember. What’s new, however, is a slightly deeper dive into Stitch’s emotional arc. His fear of abandonment and desire for connection mirror Lilo’s own struggles, creating a touching connection that adds to their bond.

The supporting cast adds a lively spark to the film, with Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen bringing infectious energy to their roles as Jumba and Pleakley. Their playful chemistry and offbeat humour provide just the right amount of comic relief to balance the film’s more heartfelt moments.

While the film is emotionally resonant and visually stunning, it rarely ventures beyond the narrative framework of the original. This loyalty to the source material is both a strength and a limitation. Fans of the 2002 version will appreciate the faithful adaptation, but others may find it lacking in fresh perspective or bold storytelling choices.