Lilo & Stitch (2025)

Lilo & Stitch was simultaneously a strange but optimal choice for Disney to put through the remake process.

Whilst still having to rely a fair amount on CGI with the sci-fi element of the film, its status (seemingly) as slightly less ‘prestigious’ property offered the chance for the stakes to be lowered a little.

The result is a bit of a mixed bag but is probably right there in the mix to be considered the best of these live action attempts.

There's an argument, first of all, that by sticking a little too closely to the original for the most part it will always pale next to it. The original is so beautifully animated, zany yet moving that taking that animated style away from it was always going to result in diminishing returns.

Despite being a fair chunk longer, this version also feels like it’s zipping through things. It feels like an experiment whereby you should watch the animated film first followed immediately by the remake to see an exercise in what ‘translating to live action’ means.

The initial Galactic Federation trial feels like it’s been butchered in the edit and it doesn’t pause for breath until we’re on earth meeting Lilo and Nani.

Despite this, the CGI looks great and the small tweaks to the plot that have been brought in largely work and don’t leave any gaping holes to the original.

The human element works best here though. Being this close to what was already a great story is aided by two brilliant performances in the lead roles.

The dynamic between Lilo and Nani is explored a little further and Nani’s character given slightly more depth. It’s played beautifully and highlights what an interesting and bold story this always was.

It’s also good for a few laughs. The slapstick works well in live action and, a few unnecessary toilet humour moments aside, it’ll tickle the funny bone.

So whilst there are elements of disappointment to be had, as has been the case for all of the remakes, this definitely stands out amongst its limited live action fellows.

A good story is always a good story and this hews close enough to the original to be a thoroughly enjoyable, for-all-the-family romp.

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