Lilo & Stitch remake brings a heartfelt story and fresh charm to live-action

Disney's live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch hits theaters today, bringing the beloved blue alien back to the big screen after 23 years, according to early reviews from Rotten Tomatoes that show mixed but generally positive reactions. Critics are calling the film one of Disney's stronger remake efforts, with many praising its faithful adaptation of the 2002 animated classic while adding fresh touches that help it stand on its own. The movie successfully captures the spirit of ohana, or family, that made the original so special, though some reviewers note it occasionally feels like an unnecessary cash grab designed to tap into nostalgia.

Several critics highlight how the live-action format makes the story more grounded and emotionally effective, particularly in showing the relationship between sisters Lilo and Nani. The film benefits from strong performances by newcomer Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Sydney Agudong as Nani, with many reviewers noting that Kealoha delivers a star-making performance that steals the show. Chris Sanders returns to voice Stitch, bringing the same comedic energy that made the character beloved in the first place. Visual effects work has received mixed reactions from Rotten Tomatoes critics, with some calling it surprisingly strong compared to other Disney remakes, while others describe Stitch as having a plasticky appearance that makes him feel less real than intended.

The success of Stitch as a character extends far beyond movies, as Disney Live Action President David Greenbaum explains in The Walt Disney Company's statements about the franchise's remarkable growth over recent decades. Stitch has become one of Disney's fastest-growing franchises globally, with the brand expanding 27-fold over the past five years across consumer products alone. The character appeals to audiences of all ages and demographics, from young children to adults who grew up with the original film and now want to share it with their own families.

The studio recognizes that Stitch represents what Disney does best, taking an extraordinary animated film and expanding it into a lasting franchise that spans movies, television shows, theme park experiences, and consumer products. Greenbaum notes that Stitch's appeal comes from his unique combination of being both mischievous and cuddly, a troublemaker with inherent sweetness that resonates with audiences worldwide. The character is even celebrated annually on June 26, known as "626 Day" in reference to his experiment number, showing the deep connection fans have formed with this blue alien over the years.

However, not all critics are impressed with Disney's latest remake attempt, as The Wall Street Journal delivers a harsh assessment of the film's execution and overall quality. The newspaper's review criticizes the movie as a shameless recycling effort that mimics its predecessor scene by scene, borrowing dialogue and even using the same Elvis Presley songs without adding meaningful improvements. Director Dean Fleischer Camp, known for the acclaimed "Marcel the Shell With Shoes On," is singled out for hyperactive editing that prevents jokes from landing properly and creates a desperate, cartoonish tone that works poorly in live action.

Sources:

https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/lilo-and-stitch-first-reviews/

https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/lilo-stitch-david-greenbaum/

https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/film/lilo-stitch-review-disney-heads-back-to-hawaii-4e4e6c3b