Aloha Again: Disney’s Lilo & Stitch Is a Heartfelt Ride for All Generations (Movie Review)

Lilo & Stitch (2025)

The island vibes are back, and so is the chaos, with heart. Disney’s Lilo & Stitch returns in a vibrant live-action retelling that honors the 2002 classic while introducing new twists for a fresh generation. Directed by Oscar® nominee Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On), the film beautifully balances nostalgia and reinvention, grounded by breakout star Maia Kealoha as Lilo.

Kealoha is magnetic—emotive, quirky, and completely unforgettable. Her portrayal of the lonely yet fiercely loving Hawaiian girl brings the emotional punch that this story has always been known for. Chris Sanders returns as the voice of Stitch (because who else could?), while Zach Galifianakis brings comedic warmth as Jumba Jookiba, Stitch’s eccentric creator. And yes, it’s refreshing to see Galifianakis back on the big screen.

The visuals? Gorgeous. Hawaii’s lush backdrops are more than scenery—they’re soul. And while some moments from the original didn’t make the final cut (we missed the iconic pound scene where Lilo insists on paying for her new “dog” with the $2 Nani gave her so she could feel like she bought him herself), the spirit remains. That moment in the original gave Lilo agency and a sense of ownership—especially when she later defends Stitch as her family. This reimagining finds new ways to showcase that same fierce loyalty and love.

One clever update: Pleakley (Billy Magnussen) and Jumba go full undercover—not just dressing as humans, but fully transforming into them. It’s a fun twist that adds tension and humor, keeping longtime fans engaged while giving newcomers something fresh to enjoy.

The cast is stacked with familiar and fresh faces, including Tia Carrere, Hannah Waddingham as the Grand Councilwoman, Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles, and Kaipo Dudoit as David, who brings a grounded warmth to the story’s evolving family dynamic.

And don’t skip the credits. A special mid-credit scene offers a touching nod to sisterhood—and possibly a hint at a sequel. After all, ohana means no one gets left behind… and no story is ever truly over.

Watching Lilo & Stitch with my four-year-old son made the experience even more meaningful. He was mesmerized by the visuals, giggled at Stitch’s chaos, and left the theater with a huge smile. It’s beautiful to witness a new generation discovering the magic that meant so much to us growing up.

Lilo & Stitch opens exclusively in theaters on May 23, 2025. Go for the nostalgia, stay for the new memories, and bring your ohana with you.

THAheadline Score (THAscore): 8/10