Lilo & Stitch Review: A Worthy Family Movie, But The Original Remains Unmatched

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Once more, another Disney live-action adaptation graces our screens, this time a remake of the 2002 animated classic “Lilo & Stitch”. Remarkably, it took 23 years for the live-action version to emerge. Given its delay, it appears tailored towards younger generations like Generation Z. For those of us who recall the original fondly, the live-action adaptation might not offer enough novelty to be a must-watch. However, there are noticeable differences that some might appreciate more than others; these adjustments may influence your decision on whether you find it worth viewing. Nonetheless, they don’t significantly alter the overall narrative.

Initially, let me clarify that if you haven’t experienced it yet, the narrative unfolds as a heartwarming account of a family and an alien who become intertwined. Known as Experiment 626, this character was created by the eccentric scientist Jumba (performed by Zach Galifianakis), with the intention of creating an unstoppable destructive force. As a result, both 626 and his creator are summoned to stand trial before the Grand Councilwoman (Hannah Waddingham). However, 626 demonstrates intelligence, leading him to evade capture and hijack an interstellar spaceship, ultimately landing on Earth, specifically the Hawaiian islands. Despite the Grand Councilwoman’s desire to annihilate the entire planet, she is informed by Pleakley (Billy Magnussen) that Earth serves as a sanctuary for mosquitoes. Consequently, Jumba and Pleakley are dispatched on a mission to apprehend 626.

626, who appears to be a dog or some other creature, was taken to an animal shelter. This is where Lilo, a 6-year-old girl whose parents have passed away and whose older sister Nani is finding it tough to take care of her, finds him. When Jumba arrives for him, 626 willingly goes with the young girl. This is how they first meet, and she names him Stitch. Despite his unruly behavior and tendency to destroy whatever he comes into contact with, Lilo has a special place in her heart for him. Over time, the chaotic alien learns about the importance of family.

What was different, both for better and worse

In contrast to the original animation, this version emphasizes Nani’s aspirations and goals, particularly her desire to attend college. Her neighbor Tūtū, who is also David’s mother, frequently reminds Nani of this dream. Unlike in the animated version, surfing isn’t just a source of comfort for Nani; it becomes a solution to her problems. Lilo gives Nani a job advertisement related to surfing, and she proves to be exceptionally skilled. The sequence features the same music as the original, but this time it feels more empowering for Nani, highlighting her growth and determination.

In addition, the technology of aliens has advanced significantly since the initial “Lilo & Stitch,” allowing Pleakley and Jumba to transform into humans when they’re on Earth. This change is beneficial for a live-action production, but it also provides opportunities for Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen to deliver some humorous, goofy moments that I found entertaining.

In the reimagined version, there was a noticeable absence of ties to “The Ugly Duckling,” a significant element in Stitch’s original development, and they also downplayed the family aspect by having Nani express doubts about it. Although I comprehend the rationale behind these changes, I believe that both versions fell short and weakened the story’s impact compared to its full potential.

In the original version of Lilo & Stitch, Courtney B. Vance played Cobra Bubbles as a CIA agent disguised as a social worker, while in this new adaptation, he appears as a CIA agent posing as a social worker instead of an actual one like in the animated series. The original character seemed more humorous due to the incongruity between his imposing stature and the profession of social work, but in the remake, despite retaining his amusing name, he doesn’t seem as comical.

The cast is great

Interestingly, a significant number of actors from the original “Lilo & Stitch” have returned for the remake. For instance, Chris Sanders returns as Stitch, while Tia Carrere plays a new character, Mrs. Kekoa. Additionally, Amy Hill and Jason Scott Lee are also part of the cast in fresh roles. However, much attention will be on the new actors, particularly the young actress playing Lilo. Despite some reservations about her character expressing excitement through screaming, which I find unusual but understandable for a little girl’s portrayal, Maia Kealoha delivers an impressive performance overall. The question of why the filmmakers found this endearing remains unanswered, but it’s not something that can be blamed on Kealoha.

Sydney Elizabeth Agudong plays Nani just as effectively as her character does, showing both resolve and being overpowered at times while caring for Lilo. As for Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen, they make an excellent duo as Jumba and Pleakley, though Galifianakis slightly falls short compared to David Ogden Stiers’ original performance due to a less booming voice.

While it’s true that this remake of “Lilo & Stitch” is admirable, it might not resonate quite as deeply for me as the original did. However, for children today (and their families), this new adaptation is a delightful watch and an enjoyable way to spend some quality time together. Even if they’ve watched the animated version multiple times before, I think they’ll still appreciate this updated take on the story.

“Lilo & Stitch” opens in theaters on May 23.

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2025-05-20 19:00