Disney’s Lilo & Stitch 2025 live-action remake has taken the world by storm, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling to captivate audiences. Released on May 23, 2025, this reimagining of the 2002 animated classic has shattered box office records and earned praise for its heartfelt narrative. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the film brings back the beloved story of a Hawaiian girl and her mischievous alien friend, Stitch. In this article, we explore the movie’s plot, cast, box office performance, critical reception, and why it’s a must-see family adventure.
A Heartwarming Story of Ohana
Set on the picturesque island of Kaua’i, Lilo & Stitch follows Lilo Pelekai, a quirky and lonely Hawaiian girl, and her older sister, Nani, as they navigate life after their parents’ tragic death. Lilo’s longing for a friend leads her to adopt a strange “dog” from an animal shelter, whom she names Stitch. Unbeknownst to her, Stitch is Experiment 626, a fugitive alien created by Dr. Jumba Jookiba for chaos and destruction. After crash-landing on Earth, Stitch is pursued by Jumba and Agent Pleakley, tasked by the United Galactic Federation to recapture him.
Through Lilo’s love and the Hawaiian concept of ohana (family), Stitch learns to embrace connection and loyalty. The story weaves emotional depth with humor, exploring themes of belonging and resilience. While staying true to the original, the remake emphasizes Nani’s struggles as a young guardian, adding a grounded, relatable layer to the narrative.
Related Reading: Why Disney’s Animated Classics Still Inspire Remakes
Star-Studded Cast and Creative Team
The film boasts a talented ensemble, blending newcomers and veterans:
- Maia Kealoha (Lilo Pelekai): A breakout star, Kealoha delivers a charming and authentic performance as Lilo.
- Chris Sanders (Stitch): Reprising his role from the original, Sanders voices the lovable alien with signature energy.
- Sydney Elizebeth Agudong (Nani): Agudong shines as the overworked sister, adding emotional depth.
- Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen (Jumba and Pleakley): The duo brings comedic flair, though some critics note they don’t outshine the original.
- Courtney B. Vance (Cobra Bubbles): Vance plays the stern social worker with a nuanced touch.
- Tia Carrere, Amy Hill, Jason Scott Lee: Original cast members appear in new supporting roles, delighting fans.
Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, known for Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, the film balances live-action and CGI seamlessly. Chris Kekaniokalani Bright wrote the screenplay, with Mike Van Waes contributing early drafts. The $100 million production, initially planned for Disney+, became a theatrical hit thanks to its universal appeal.
Read More
Explore More: Top Family Movies to Watch in 2025
Record-Breaking Box Office Performance
Lilo & Stitch smashed expectations with a $183 million domestic opening over the four-day Memorial Day weekend, outpacing Top Gun: Maverick’s $160.5 million record. Globally, it earned $341.7 million in its opening weekend and has since crossed $781.2 million, making it the third highest-grossing film of 2025. With a break-even point of $205 million, the film is a financial triumph, per The Hollywood Reporter.
Key box office milestones include:
- Biggest Memorial Day Weekend Opening: $182.6 million over four days.
- Fastest to $200 Million Domestically: Achieved in six days, surpassing many Disney remakes.
- Third Highest Disney Live-Action Opening: Behind The Lion King ($191.7 million) and Beauty and the Beast ($174.7 million).
The film’s success is attributed to nostalgia, strong marketing, and appeal to both families (43%) and non-families (57%), especially Gen Z and millennials. How Summer 2025 Became a Box Office Bonanza
Critical and Audience Reception
The remake has a 71% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes, with a 93% audience score and an A CinemaScore. Critics praise its emotional depth and Maia Kealoha’s performance but note it lacks the original’s chaotic energy. Screen Rant calls it “Disney’s best live-action remake yet,” while some reviews, like those on IMDb, criticize unnecessary changes to iconic moments.
Audience reactions highlight the film’s heartwarming story and Stitch’s charm, though some fans miss the original’s quirky edge. The focus on Nani’s struggles resonates, making the remake feel grounded yet magical.
Check Out: Ranking Disney’s Live-Action Remakes
Where to Watch and Book Tickets
Lilo & Stitch is currently in theaters, with showtimes available on platforms like Fandango. The film will likely hit Disney+ later in 2025, following the standard theatrical window. Check local listings for screenings, and stay tuned for streaming updates.
Plan Your Visit: Tips for a Perfect Movie Theater Experience
