Ohana Reimagined: How The New ‘Lilo & Stitch’ Honors Its Heart

When Disney announced a live-action remake of “Lilo & Stitch,” many longtime fans of the 2002 animated classic were understandably nervous. The original’s unique blend of sci-fi chaos, Hawaiian culture, and heartfelt storytelling made it a standout of its time. Reimagining such a beloved story always risks losing the charm that made it resonate. But the 2025 version, directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, strikes a remarkable balance between nostalgia and new energy.

The latest “Lilo & Stitch” successfully captures the heart of its source material while introducing it to a new generation. With a screenplay by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, the film embraces its Hawaiian roots, its offbeat humor, and its central message of ‘ohana’ — family, in every form. Stunning island cinematography, a playful blend of practical and CG effects, and an infectiously fun soundtrack add even more color and life to the story. It’s a reimagining that feels both familiar and entirely its own.

Maia Kealoha shines in her debut as Lilo Pelekai, capturing the same charm and fierce heart that made the classic character so memorable. Lilo remains an outsider with a vivid imagination and a deep yearning for connection, and Kealoha delivers a performance full of warmth, humor, and just the right touch of mischief. With emotional depth and spirited grace well beyond her years, Kealoha makes the role entirely her own.

Stitch, voiced once again by Chris Sanders (who also co-created the 2002 release), remains as chaotic and lovable as ever. His chemistry with Lilo, arguably the emotional anchor of the franchise, is as strong in this live-action/CG hybrid as it was in 2002. Whether the two are wreaking havoc across the island or sharing tender moments of understanding, their bond is authentic and heartfelt.

Visually, the adaptation is a treat. The tropical setting feels rich and immersive, and Stitch’s animation is impressively detailed, blending seamlessly into the real-world setting. The character design stays true to the original, with just enough updates to make Stitch feel contemporary while still retaining his wild, blue, bug-eyed energy.

What makes this remake truly work, though, is its tone. The movie doesn’t shy away from the emotional depth of the original, it still explores themes of loss, loneliness, belonging, and unconventional family, but it does so with a light touch and a lot of heart. At the same time, it leans into the comedy, delivering genuine laugh-out-loud moments that will land with both kids and adults.

The supporting cast also brings a lot to the table, helping to round out a believable and engaging world. There’s a strong sense of community and culture, something that often gets diluted in remakes. Here, the filmmakers took care to keep the story grounded in its Hawaiian setting, allowing the environment and traditions to enrich the narrative rather than serve as mere backdrops.

For fans of the original, there are plenty of nods and Easter eggs to appreciate. Memorable musical cues, visual homages, and beloved catchphrases all make an appearance. But the film also isn’t afraid to make a few smart updates, reinventing certain scenes and characters in ways that enhance rather than detract.

Overall, “Lilo & Stitch” (2025) is a joyful, well-executed retelling that manages to retain the soul of its animated predecessor while offering enough new energy to stand on its own. It’s fun for all ages, filled with laughter, heart, and a reminder that family doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Disney’s latest remake may have begun as a risk but it may end up being one of their most successful live-action adaptations to date.

Disney’s “Lilo & Stitch” hits theaters Friday, May 23.