Disney is bringing back the magic of 'ohana spirit this summer with the highly anticipated live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, hitting theaters on May 23, 2025. The beloved 2002 animated film, which won hearts with its poignant story and cute alien chaos, is being reimagined for a new generation—but still promises the same family, friends, and mischief.

The Story That Still Resonates

If you’re not already crying over memories of “ohana means family,” here’s a quick refresh. The original film followed Lilo, a young Hawaiian girl dealing with loss and loneliness, who adopts what she believes is a dog from the local shelter. That "dog" turns out to be Stitch, a powerful alien experiment gone rogue. Chaos, hilarity, and ultimately a deep bond between the two follow.

The live-action version is faithful to this emotional center, showing how two misfits find one another and form an unlikely family—and how love can be discovered in even the most unlikely of places.

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Meet the New Faces

The film stars Maia Kealoha in the lead breakout role of Lilo. The young actress embodies the same sassy yet vulnerable spirit that fans adored in the original. Sydney Agudong plays Nani, Lilo's older sister, who is trying to balance adulting and being responsible for her eccentric sibling.

Chris Sanders, the original voice of Stitch, returns to once again voice the mischievous alien, offering nostalgic continuity for the remake. The rest of the main cast includes Zach Galifianakis and Courtney B. Vance, with Ted Lasso's Hannah Waddingham on board to play a new villainous role.

Directed With a Fresh Vision

Director Dean Fleischer Camp, whose Marcel the Shell with Shoes On gained him acclaim, is at the helm. He has a unique storytelling sensibility that could potentially provide both heart and off-kilter humor—perfect for Lilo & Stitch's signature tone. The film is set to blend practical and CGI effects, specifically in making Stitch appear as though he is real, without losing his signature cartoonish charm.

Trailer Buzz

The official trailer dropped recently, and it’s already racked up over 150 million views, making it one of Disney’s most-watched live-action trailers. Fans were excited to see glimpses of Hawaii’s stunning landscapes, heartfelt flashbacks between sisters, and chaotic (but adorable) Stitch moments. The trailer confirms this adaptation will be as much about emotion as it is about action.

Watch the trailer here: Lilo & Stitch | Official Trailer (YouTube)

My Hopes and Concerns

I really want this remake to succeed—not just commercially, but emotionally. Lilo & Stitch isn’t about big action scenes or catchy musical numbers. It’s about grief, identity, and finding family in unexpected places. If the film leans too hard into comedy or loses that emotional core, it risks becoming just another forgettable live-action update.

That said, director Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On) has proven he can do heartfelt storytelling with quirky visuals. His style might be just what this remake needs to feel fresh but still true to its roots.

Ready for Release

Set for a Memorial Day weekend premiere, Lilo & Stitch is one of Disney's most high-profile summer offerings, bowing against blockbusters like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning. It's 1 hour and 48 minutes long, which is just the right length for families and fans.

Whether you are revisiting your childhood or meeting Stitch for the first time, this film will leave an emotional mark. And if Disney gets it right, don't be surprised if "ohana" is the word of the summer—again.