Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has taken the world by storm, proving that the studio still knows how to reimagine its animated classics for a new generation. Released on May 23, 2025, this heartfelt adaptation of the 2002 animated film has smashed box office records and captured audiences with its blend of nostalgia, stunning visuals, and the timeless message of ohana—family. Here’s everything you need to know about this blockbuster hit.
A Box Office Juggernaut
From its opening weekend, Lilo & Stitch set the tone for a historic run. The film grossed $183 million domestically over the four-day Memorial Day weekend, marking the biggest Memorial Day opening ever. Globally, it raked in $341.7 million during the same period, and by its third weekend, it had surpassed $626.9 million worldwide, making it the third movie of 2025 to cross the $625 million milestone. Analysts now project it could reach $950 million to $1 billion by the end of its theatrical run, a rare feat for Disney’s live-action remakes. With a modest $100 million production budget, the film’s profitability is undeniable, signaling a major win for Disney after the underwhelming performance of Snow White earlier in 2025.
The Story: A Fresh Take on a Beloved Classic
The live-action Lilo & Stitch stays true to the core of the original. It follows Lilo (Maia Kealoha), a young Hawaiian girl, who adopts a strange “dog” named Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders), unaware he’s a fugitive alien experiment. Together, they navigate themes of family, belonging, and resilience, with Lilo’s sister Nani (Sydney Agudong) striving to keep their family together after the loss of their parents.
While the remake retains the heart of ohana, it introduces changes that have sparked discussion. Notably, Nani’s arc includes a new backstory: she sacrificed a chance to study marine biology at the University of California, San Diego, to care for Lilo. The ending, where Nani pursues her education in California and uses a portal gun to visit Lilo, has divided fans. Some praise the added depth to Nani’s character, while others feel it strays from the original’s emphasis on family staying physically together.
Cast and Crew: A Stellar Lineup
The film boasts an impressive cast, blending new talent with returning favorites. Maia Kealoha shines as Lilo, bringing authenticity and charm, while Sydney Agudong delivers a nuanced Nani. Chris Sanders, the original voice of Stitch and co-director of the 2002 film, reprises his role, ensuring the alien’s iconic growl feels familiar. The supporting cast includes Billy Magnussen as Pleakley, Zach Galifianakis as Jumba, Tia Carrere as social worker Mrs. Kekoa, and Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles.
Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On), the film balances humor, heart, and breathtaking Hawaiian scenery. The CGI for Stitch has been widely praised for its lifelike yet faithful design, making the blue alien a standout.
Why It Works
Several factors contribute to Lilo & Stitch’s success:
- Nostalgia Done Right: The film taps into the love for the 2002 classic, which grossed $273 million globally and became a cultural phenomenon.
- Low Budget, High Return: At $100 million, the film’s cost was significantly lower than other Disney remakes like Snow White ($250 million), allowing it to break even quickly.
- Broad Appeal: With a PG rating and universal themes, it’s a family-friendly hit, outperforming competitors like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning.
- Positive Reception: The remake holds a 69% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a 93% Popcornmeter score, and an A CinemaScore, reflecting strong audience approval despite mixed reactions to changes.
Controversies and Criticisms
Not everyone is thrilled with the remake. Fans have criticized the altered ending, arguing it dilutes the ohana message by having Nani leave for college. Others feel the removal of Captain Gantu and Jumba’s villainous role undermines the original’s charm. Some analysts have also raised concerns about the portrayal of Native Hawaiians, suggesting the film leans into touristy stereotypes rather than deep cultural commentary. Despite these critiques, the film’s box office dominance and audience scores indicate that the changes haven’t deterred its success.
What’s Next?
With its massive success, Disney is already discussing a potential sequel, though no official announcement has been made. The film’s performance has also sparked hope for future live-action remakes, provided Disney keeps budgets reasonable and respects the source material. Fans can expect Lilo & Stitch to hit Disney+ around August 27, 2025, based on typical theatrical-to-streaming windows.
Final Thoughts
Disney’s Lilo & Stitch live-action remake is a triumph, blending nostalgia with fresh storytelling to create a box office juggernaut. While not without flaws, its heart, humor, and stunning visuals make it a must-see for fans and newcomers alike. As Stitch would say, ohana means family—and this film proves Disney’s family of fans is still growing strong.
