With the premiere of now officially behind us, fans and critics alike have taken to Social Media to voice their initial thoughts on the highly-anticipated live-action remake of the 2002 original.
The general consensus appears to be that this could easily be the best in the ever-growing catalogue of animation-to-live-action remake fare from the company, marking great news for fans of the original. Others cite the performances of the cast in the film, including newcomer Maia Kealoha in the role of Lilo. Others point out the new character additions as a win, as well as calling out the great performances in the roles of the characters we already know and love, including Lilo’s older sister, Nani.
Here’s what our own Eric Goldman had to say about the new film:
Some supporting characters are underserved (though I like some new additions), but #LiloandStitch 2025 maintains the original’s strong emotional core, with a greater focus on the bond (and tensions) between Lilo and Nani. It’s got genuine heart in a way some Disney remakes lack. pic.twitter.com/Cg0LdGsjSp
— Eric Goldman (@TheEricGoldman) May 18, 2025
Others speak highly of the new film, sure to increase the already insatiable appetite for those looking for more Stitch content, with some remarking on the look of the animated favorite injected into the real world. All seem to agree though, this is a big upgrade from the last live-action adaptation from the studio and possibly the best we’ve seen yet.
We saw (and loved) Lilo and Stitch this morning. More in next week's episode.#LiloandStitch pic.twitter.com/gvNMtT7l3u
— Movies with Mummy Pod (@MoviesWithMummy) May 18, 2025
#LiloAndStitch is the feel good film of the summer. A beautiful mix of adorable anarchy, adventure and affection that left us in STITCHes & with tears of joy. There is so much heart in the big moments and its "also cute and fluffy" in the little ones.
— All On The Board (@allontheboard) May 18, 2025
In cinemas 21st of May pic.twitter.com/g2ye6hLEPf
#LiloandStitch is the best Disney live-action to date. Seeing Stitch in his live-action form on the big screen brings on a huge wave of nostalgia. Tons of laughter and heartwarming moments. The film hits similar beats to the original, as well added something new flavors. pic.twitter.com/llyEvFBNfM
— Wendy Lee Szany (@WendyLeeSzany) May 18, 2025
#LiloandStitch was heartwarming & really gave the official film more depth to Lilo & Nani. Maia Kealoha is a STAR! The Stitch was so well made. I never imagined in 23 years they'd be able to merge animation w/ live action this well. It was magical. Very sweet.
— Laura ลอร'า 劳拉 🍥 (@lsirikul) May 18, 2025
#LiloAndStitch is PURE DISNEY MAGIC! It’s a story about loss, friendship, & ohana, told in a way that’s both fun and deeply touching. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry & Stitch will completely steal your heart. Newcomer Maia Kealoha is a breakout star in a story that delivers HEARTWARMING… pic.twitter.com/xNxvSyqjJn
— Anthony Gagliardi (@AJGaliardi) May 18, 2025
#LiloandStitch is the embodiment of everything that Disney represents. It is without a doubt one of the best Disney live-action remakes and is easily the best family movie of the year. The meaning of ohana has never been more important than with this film as we get more depth… pic.twitter.com/ufjsB2aFu6
— Christopher Rates It 🦦 (@LuminousDagger) May 18, 2025
Really, the only thing negative that can be found on social media feeds regarding the new film is the surprising (depending on who you ask) absence of arguably the main antagonist of the animated original, Captain Gantu. Fans have found out this news and have taken their feelings to their devices and had their say. Here’s a small selection of G-rated comments, as bigger fans have gotten, shall we say, more emotional regarding the lack of Gantu.
I thought ‘Ohana’ meant family? And that family meant NOBODY gets left behind or forgotten?? #LiloandStitch pic.twitter.com/aHqS1a22Qu
— Mustard Seed the BB.G.O.A.T ✨ (@Jaylor925) May 18, 2025
No Gantu in Lilo and Stitch? https://t.co/V97UAEJqGq pic.twitter.com/yRCfFT9OXD
— 👾The Entertainment Enthusiastic🎥 (@OmniversePrime) May 18, 2025
lilo & stitch without captain gantu is like infinity war without thanos 😭😭😭 https://t.co/8YFERhE1Zm
— Rizzard Of Oz 🕷️🏳️⚧️ (@Zeros_TMNTDraws) May 18, 2025
- Just like the 2002 animated classic, Lilo & Stitchtells the funny and touching story of a lonely Hawaiian girl and the fugitive alien who helps to mend her broken family.
- Lilo & Stitchis directed by award-winning filmmaker Dean Fleischer Camp, with a screenplay by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, and stars Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Billy Magnussen, Tia Carrere, Hannah Waddingham, Chris Sanders, with Courtney B. Vance, and Zach Galifianakis, and introducing Maia Kealoha.
- Lilo & Stitch, a live-action reimagining of Disney’s 2002 animated classic, opens exclusively in theaters May 23, 2025.