Lilo & Stitch

"Lilo & Stitch" (2025) Review: A Heartwarming Adventure About Family and Fuzzy Chaos!

Imagine a movie where a tiny blue alien with giant ears teams up with a spunky Hawaiian girl to teach everyone that family isn’t just about who you’re related to—it’s about who loves you, even if they’re a little weird. That’s Lilo & Stitch, Disney’s live-action remake of the beloved 2002 animated film. Packed with laughs, surfing scenes, and a whole lot of “ohana” (Hawaiian for family), this movie is like a sunny day at the beach with a splash of alien mischief!

The Story: A Little Girl and Her “Dog” Save the Day

Lilo (Maia Kealoha) is a 6-year-old girl living in Hawaii with her big sister Nani (Sydney Agudong). Their parents are gone, and Nani works hard to keep them together, even when grumpy social workers knock on their door. One day, Lilo adopts a “dog” from the animal shelter—except this “dog” is really Stitch, a fuzzy blue alien experiment created to destroy everything!

Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders, just like in the original!) loves causing chaos—like crashing weddings or turning houses into messes. But Lilo doesn’t give up on him. She teaches him about love, Elvis Presley songs, and why family means “nobody gets left behind.” Meanwhile, two silly aliens—Jumba (Zach Galifianakis) and Pleakley (Billy Magnussen)—chase Stitch to take him back to space. Will Stitch choose destruction or his new family?

What’s Fun? Surfing, Songs, and Stitch’s Shenanigans!

1. Stitch’s Crazy Antics: Stitch is like a tornado in blue fur! He rides buses, fights aliens, and even tries hula dancing. Kids will giggle when he crashes into things or mimics Elvis’s hip shakes!
2. Hawaiian Vibes: The movie shows Hawaii’s beaches, forests, and hula dances. It feels like a vacation with palm trees and ukulele music!
3. Sister Power: Lilo and Nani argue (like all siblings!), but their love shines through. Nani isn’t just a babysitter—she’s a surf champ with big dreams, and her struggles make her feel real.

Meet the Characters: Heroes, Aliens, and a Very Strict Social Worker

• Lilo: Maia Kealoha plays Lilo with spunk and heart. She’s not perfect—she throws tantrums and talks to a fish named Pudge—but that’s what makes her lovable!
• Nani: Sydney Agudong steals the show as the tough-but-sweet sister. You’ll cheer when she surfs giant waves or stands up to bullies.
• Stitch: Still the same troublemaker! His big eyes and silly grin make him impossible not to hug (even when he’s breaking stuff).
• Jumba & Pleakley: These aliens dress like humans but act like clowns. Jumba’s grumpy face and Pleakley’s goofy jokes are pure comedy!

What’s New? More Ohana and Hawaiian Culture!

This remake adds fun twists:

• Nani’s Bigger Role: Nani isn’t just a stressed sister—she surfs, dances, and even flirts with her friend David. Kids will love her cool moves!
• Hawaiian Voices: The movie includes Hawaiian language, hula lessons, and respect for the islands’ culture. It’s like a love letter to Hawaii!
• Elvis Forever: Just like the original, Elvis songs rock the soundtrack. Stitch even jams to “Hound Dog”!

What’s Scary? Aliens and a Little Sadness

• Alien Fights: Laser guns and spaceship chases might make little ones hide behind popcorn. But don’t worry—Stitch always wins!
• Sad Moments: Lilo misses her parents, and Nani cries when she feels overwhelmed. But the movie shows how love heals sadness.

Parents Note: Rated PG for mild action and themes of loss. Great for kids 6+ who can handle silly scares!

Lessons Hidden in the Fun

1. Family Is What You Make: Lilo’s family includes Stitch, her sister, and even her quirky neighbors. It’s a reminder that love makes a family, not just blood!
2. Everyone Deserves a Second Chance: Stitch starts as a troublemaker but learns to be kind. It’s okay to make mistakes—what matters is trying to be better!
3. Stand Up for Yourself: Lilo doesn’t let bullies bring her down. She dances, draws, and stays weirdly wonderful!

What’s Not Perfect?

• Too Much Copying: Some scenes feel too similar to the original. If you’ve seen the cartoon, you might guess what happens next!
• Stitch’s Fur: Stitch looks cute, but his fuzzy design splits fans. Some wish he looked more like the sleek cartoon version!

Should You Watch It?

YES if you:

• Love the original Lilo & Stitch or want a fun new adventure.
• Enjoy surfing, aliens, and heartwarming hugs.
• Believe in the power of “ohana”!

NO if:

• You hate remakes (but give this one a chance—it’s full of heart!).

Perfect for: Family movie night with a side of pineapple pizza!

Final Thought: Lilo & Stitch isn’t just a movie—it’s a big, warm hug about finding your place in the world. As Stitch says, “This is my family. It’s little and broken, but still good.” So grab your surfboard, crank up the Elvis tunes, and get ready to laugh, cry, and believe in the magic of ohana! 🌺✨

P.S. Stay through the credits for a bonus scene where Stitch tries hula dancing… and fails spectacularly!