Disney Puts the “O” in Ohana With “Lilo & Stitch” Reimagining

Disney’s wave of live-action remakes continues, and this time, a classic is heading for a big-screen debut. “Lilo & Stitch” will premiere in theaters internationally on May 23, 2025.

Taking the route of the original 2002 film, the heartwarming sci-fi comedy follows Lilo, a spirited Hawaiian girl being raised by her older sister, Nani, after the loss of their parents. Due to unlikely circumstances, Lilo adopts Stitch—a chaotic, dog-like alien who is far more trouble than he’s worth. As their bond deepens, Lilo teaches Stitch how to be more adaptable to the human world and raises him with the notion of family over everything.

Starring newcomer Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Academy Award-nominated animator Chris Sanders reprising his role as the voice of Stitch, the film honors its origins while carving out a new legacy. Sanders, who also created the original character and co-wrote the 2002 film, brings his signature voice and heart to this reimagining.

Sydney Elizabeth Agudong plays Nani, and rounding up the supporting cast are Zach Galifianakis, William Magnussen, Kaipo Dudoit, Tia Carrere, Hannah Waddingham, Amy Hill, Jason Scott Lee, and Courtney B. Vance.

Under the direction of Dean Fleischer Camp, and scripted by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, “Lilo & Stitch” takes nostalgic audiences back to Hawaii for an epic tale of love and family, while introducing a new herd of Disney fans to the beautiful turbulence that is Stitch.

The excitement surrounding the film hit new heights when its trailer, released on March 12, 2025, garnered 125 million views within 24 hours—marking Disney’s second-highest debut for a live-action remake.

One of the most anticipated aspects of the live-action remake is the introduction of a CGI Stitch, designed to seamlessly blend into the real world while preserving his fluffy charm. The character was first revealed at the 2024 D23 Expo, lying on a bed with a Hawaiian lei—a familiar scene for fans of the original.

Using a mix of puppetry, motion capture, and state-of-the-art visual effects, the new Stitch promises to bring even more personality and heart to the screen.

According to insider projections, “Lilo & Stitch” will make Disney a whopping $120 million on opening day at the global box office—a testament to the film’s unwavering legacy.

If there’s one thing “Lilo & Stitch” has taught die-hard fans, it’s Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.

Watch the trailer for “Lilo & Stitch” here.