Lilo and Stitch Review: Is Disney’s 2025 Live-Action Remake the Best Yet?

Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch remake has landed, and the first Lilo and Stitch review reactions are pouring in, sparking excitement among fans of the 2002 animated classic.

Premiering at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles on May 17, 2025, and set for a theatrical release on May 23, this reimagining of the heartwarming tale about a lonely Hawaiian girl and her chaotic alien “dog” has critics buzzing.

Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the film promises to blend nostalgia with fresh emotional depth. But does it live up to the hype, or is it another redundant Disney remake? Let’s dive into the early reviews, critical insights, and what makes this adaptation stand out.

What Are Critics Saying About the 2025 Lilo and Stitch Remake?

The initial Lilo and Stitch review reactions are overwhelmingly positive, with many critics hailing it as Disney’s finest live-action remake to date. Wendy Lee Szany declared on X, “Lilo and Stitch is the best Disney live-action to date,” praising its nostalgic charm and heartwarming moments.

Laura Sirikul echoed this, noting the film’s “magical” blend of animation and live-action, particularly its deeper exploration of Lilo and Nani’s relationship. Daniel Baptista called it “the biggest surprise of the year,” emphasizing director Dean Fleischer Camp’s ability to capture the original’s chaos and charm. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a “Fresh” 73% rating with 40 reviews, reflecting strong critical approval.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some critics argue the remake lacks the original’s manic energy and visual flair. The Guardian labeled it a “ghastly misfire,” criticizing its rushed pacing and flat visuals, while The A.V. Club called it a “cheap-looking” retread with a “Disney Channel Original aesthetic.” Despite these critiques, the consensus leans toward the film’s emotional core and faithful adaptation, making it a standout in Disney’s remake catalog.

How Does Maia Kealoha’s Performance as Lilo Shine?

Newcomer Maia Kealoha’s portrayal of Lilo is a universal highlight in every Lilo and Stitch review. Critics describe her as a “star-making” talent, with Laura Sirikul calling her a “STAR” who brings authenticity and charm to the role.

IGN’s Eric Goldman praised Kealoha’s ability to balance Lilo’s grief and volatility, making her bond with the CGI Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders) feel genuine. Her chemistry with Sydney Elizebeth Agudong’s Nani is another focal point, with Russ Milheim noting their “heartfelt” dynamic as the film’s strongest element.

Kealoha’s performance anchors the film, ensuring Lilo remains the emotional heart of this reimagining.

Does Stitch Steal the Show in Live-Action?

Stitch, voiced again by original co-director Chris Sanders, is a major draw in the Lilo and Stitch review discourse. Critics praise the CGI rendering, with Wendy Lee Szany highlighting how Stitch’s live-action form evokes “a huge wave of nostalgia.” David Gonzalez called Sanders’ performance “an utter delight,” channeling the same frenetic energy that made Stitch a Disney icon.

However, some reviews, like Jon Negroni’s, note that Stitch gets less screen time than expected, with the film leaning into human drama over alien chaos. Despite this, Stitch’s mischievous antics—smashing champagne flutes and terrorizing sandcastles—deliver the comedic absurdity fans love, enhanced by high-quality VFX that outshine other Disney remakes like The Lion King.

How Does the Film Honor Hawaiian Culture and Ohana?

A key question in any Lilo and Stitch review is whether the remake respects the original’s celebration of Hawaiian culture and the concept of “ohana” (family). Critics like Peter Gray applaud the film for celebrating “Hawaiian values, the power of friendship, and family,” calling it a “nice surprise.”

Michael Lee noted on Bluesky that the film adds “new phrases and expressions” to deepen character arcs and the spirit of aloha. The Curvy Critic, reflecting on her Hawaiian roots, praised the nostalgic homage to the island’s music and culture, with Elvis Presley’s songs and classic tracks returning.

While some, like Collider, argue the film feels like a “soulless carbon copy” at times, most agree it maintains the original’s emotional core, particularly through Lilo and Nani’s bond.

What Are the Film’s Strengths and Weaknesses?

The strengths highlighted in Lilo and Stitch review posts include its emotional depth, stellar performances, and faithful yet fresh approach. Screen Rant’s Mary Kassel noted that the script “tightens the story and sharpens its focus,” addressing structural issues from the 2002 film.

The VFX, particularly for Stitch, are a standout, with Consequence’s Liz Shannon Miller calling them a “massive improvement” over other Disney remakes. The chemistry between Lilo, Nani, and Stitch, combined with Dean Fleischer Camp’s whimsical direction, elevates the film into a “joyous family adventure.”

On the downside, some critics point to pacing issues and a lack of visual imagination. IndieWire criticized the film’s “dry lifelessness” and rushed scenes, like the opening prison escape. Collider noted that supporting characters like Jumba (Zach Galifianakis) and Pleakley (Billy Magnussen) feel underserved, with their comedic hijinks hitting inconsistently.

The Guardian and A.V. Club lamented the film’s “plasticky sheen” and repetitive visuals, arguing it pales against the original’s vibrant animation. These critiques suggest the remake struggles to fully recapture the 2002 film’s idiosyncratic magic.

Is This Disney’s Best Live-Action Remake?

The Lilo and Stitch review consensus positions the 2025 remake as a high point in Disney’s live-action efforts, surpassing duds like Pinocchio and Snow White.

Critics like John Nguyen and Daniel Baptista boldly claim it’s “the best live-action remake of a Disney animated film by far,” citing its heart, humor, and modern updates. Rotten Tomatoes’ “Fresh” rating and positive social media buzz, with posts like

@ClubFeige’s calling it “hilarious & heartwarming,” reinforce this sentiment.

However, detractors argue it’s still an “unnecessary cash-grab,” with The Guardian warning Disney against turning animation gems into “awkward live-action outings.” The film’s success lies in its grounded approach and emotional authenticity, but it doesn’t fully eclipse the original’s brilliance.

Will Lilo and Stitch Break Box Office Records?

Early indicators suggest strong commercial potential. The trailer, released on March 12, 2025, garnered 158 million views in 24 hours, making it Disney’s second-most viewed live-action trailer ever.

Posts on X report record-breaking early ticket sales and kid-friendly collectibles like Stitch popcorn buckets fueling excitement. CBR noted that the film is tracking to outperform Snow White’s domestic box office in its opening weekend alone.

With a PG rating, theatrical release in formats like Dolby Cinema and 4DX, and a star-studded cast including Hannah Waddingham and Courtney B. Vance, Lilo & Stitch is poised for a family-friendly hit.

Some Closing Thoughts: A Heartwarming Ride Worth Taking

Disney’s Lilo and Stitch review reactions paint a picture of a remake that, while not flawless, delivers the heart, humor, and ohana spirit fans cherish. Maia Kealoha’s breakout performance, a charming CGI Stitch, and a deeper focus on Lilo and Nani’s bond make this a standout in Disney’s remake lineup.

Though some critics find it lacking the original’s visual spark, the consensus is clear: this is a faithful, heartfelt adventure that honors its roots while adding fresh flavors.

Catch Lilo & Stitch in theaters on May 23, 2025, and join the ohana for a nostalgic, chaotic, and emotional ride.

Share your thoughts in the comments—will you be watching?