Lilo & Stitch is a classic Disney animated movie released in 2002. It was met with mild reception, but it was successful enough to spawn two animated series, several sequels, and have multiple cameos across pop culture. Disney revisited it for a live-action adaptation, released on May 23, 2025, bringing the spirit of Ohana to the modern audience.
Fans of the classic animated release noticed several key changes to the live-action adaptation. One of the most obvious design choices is to limit reliance on CGI, like giving Jumba and Pleakley full human disguises rather than the classic wig and wardrobe. Some choices are more substantial to the story and the future of the franchise.
Comedy style reminiscent of the early 2000s Disney
The first Lilo & Stitch movie follows a whimsical beat as it transitions back and forth between fun, lighthearted, action-packed, and sad. It was an impressive writing feat, but was born out of necessity from the movie's short run time (1hr, 25min). The live action is still short (1hr, 48min), but they trimmed some elements for more character moments.
Simple scenes are elevated by tiny details that are not in the script or are ad-libbed for fun. It's a comedy style that rewards rewatching, much like how fans of the Sportsbet io app notice new quirks or features the more they use it. The pacing, the chemistry, and even the background gags reflect that same spirit of layered entertainment
New story antagonist
In the original Lilo & Stitch, Dr Jumba was just a silly scientist who takes pride in his craft, but is fully capable of feeling guilt over the consequences of his actions. The new movie made him an evil villain whose goal is to use Stitch as a weapon against the Galactic Council. This did not sit well with fans of the classic who view him as part of the ohana.
The decision to change Dr Jumba's nature was to supplement the void left by a different major change, which was the removal of the original antagonist, Captain Gantu. Dr Jumba, thus, fills his role as the villain to push Lilo and Stitch's bond by going through extreme lengths to stay together. This means no more Uncle Jumba for sequels if they make them.
Adaptation for modern family values
The ending has trended on social media for how far removed it is from the original Lilo & Stitch story. In the original, Nani (Lilo's sister) tried hard to keep a regular job so she could qualify as Lilo's caretaker. They only succeeded through Stitch's actions being Lilo's official 'pet', making their family forever protected by the Galactic Council.
In the new Lilo & Stitch live-action, Nani lost custody of Lilo and Stitch, who are put in foster care. It was a decision for their family so Lilo could stay in a loving home while Nani pursues a college education on the United States mainland. The decision was meant to modernise the story by expanding the meaning of 'family'.
Overall reception
The reception to the new changes was mixed at best. Those who are new to the Lilo & Stitch series enjoyed a family-friendly entertainment, whilst fans of the classic cartoon felt alienated. Essayists online also break down their opinions on the franchise and the changes made.
Constantly comparing past favourites with modern reimagining is always expected in the media. It is true for movies, games, or apps like Sportsbet io for people to naturally measure how new experiences stack up against what came before. Ultimately, both versions of Lilo & Stitch serve different audiences, and that might be the point.
