by Rocio Fermin
As Lilo wisely says, “Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” And that’s exactly why Disney’s new live-action Lilo & Stitch is the perfect movie to watch with your own ohana. From its animated roots, it successfully brings everything fans adored about the original 2002 classic into a fresh, real-world setting.
Growing up, the original Lilo & Stitch was more than just a cartoon, it was a story about belonging, embracing imperfections, and celebrating family in all its messy glory. It remains one of the most beloved Disney stories because it dared to be different—mixing sci-fi chaos with genuine emotion, all wrapped in Hawaiian culture and music. Now, more than 20 years later, the story returns, this time with live actors and modern effects, and it manages to capture the same spirit while adding new layers that make it relevant for today’s audiences.
Disney Remake Done Oh So Right
Disney remakes are often received with mixed reviews. Thankfully, Lilo & Stitch is a remake done right. Instead of trying to overshadow the original, it honors it by staying true to its heart while offering fresh performances and realistic touches that bring the characters and their struggles to life.
At the core of this story is Lilo, played by Maia Kealoha. Kealoha is believable as the quirky, strong-willed island girl and delivers a performance filled with emotional depth. From her hopeful attempts at hula dancing, knack at getting into all sorts of trouble, to her fierce protectiveness over Stitch, the young actress brings a believable blend of vulnerability and courage. Kealoha’s portrayal makes it easy to root for Lilo.
Playing Nani, Lilo’s older sister and guardian, Sydney Agudong delivers a stellar performance that balances strength and tenderness. Nani struggles with caring for her sister, making a decent living for them both, and deciding to put her dreams aside. For me, the most compelling part of the film is the chemistry between Maia and Sydney. Their interactions feel so natural and genuine, capturing the push-and-pull of real sisterhood. They argue, they apologize, they share quiet, comforting moments and through it all, their bond feels authentic and relatable.
Of course, you can’t have Lilo & Stitch without the naughty blue alien himself. Experiment 626, voiced once again by Chris Sanders, bursts onto the screen with all the wild energy and mischievous charm we remember and adore. Audiences are served with wild antics, destruction overload, as well as friendship lathered with mayhem. Sanders’ voice work keeps Stitch feeling fresh and hilarious while also showing his growing emotional complexity. Stitch is both a source of chaos and a catalyst for healing, and watching him evolve is endlessly entertaining.
Solid Cast
The supporting cast shines as well. Courtney B. Vance brings unexpected warmth and strength to Cobra Bubbles, making his character both intimidating and protective. Zach Galifianakis is perfectly cast as the quirky scientist Dr. Jumba, delivering laughs with his oddball mannerisms, while Billy Magnussen’s Pleakley adds nervous humor that lightens heavier moments. Fans of the original will also appreciate Tia Carrere’s cameo as the caring social worker.
Visually, the film bursts with color and life in the islands. The Hawaiian setting is more than just a pretty backdrop, it’s a character in itself. The filmmakers take care to represent Hawaiian culture with respect and authenticity. From the music and language to the everyday hustle and bustles, the setting feels lived-in and real, not just a tourist postcard.
Ohana Bonds
Beyond the visuals and performances, what makes this live-action Lilo & Stitch truly special is the underlying struggles and lessons. The film tackles themes such as peer acceptance, grief over the loss of parents, and a host of growing up pains. It never sugarcoats the life problems Nani faces or the loneliness Lilo feels. Instead, it shows how love and connection can exist even in the hardest moments. Watching their journey reminds us that family extends beyond blood relations– it’s really about people who choose to stand by each other at all costs. In this case, let that family include an extraterrestrial and a young lady who, against intergalactic odds, became best friends.
Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch will surely capture the hearts of moviegoers. This is a big-screen experience made to be shared with the people you love most.
