Disney’s Live-Action Lilo & Stitch Charms Audiences with 93% Rotten Tomatoes Score

Disney’s beloved tale of friendship and family returns to the big screen in a heartfelt live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch, and audiences across the globe are embracing it with open arms. The film has earned an impressive 93% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, signaling a strong emotional connection with fans both old and new.

At the heart of the 2025 retelling is Maia Kealoha as the spirited and imaginative Lilo Pelekai, a young Hawaiian girl dealing with grief and loneliness after losing her parents. Opposite her is Stitch—a chaotic alien creature originally created for destruction—voiced once again by Chris Sanders, who returns to his iconic role from the animated classic. What unfolds is a powerful and quirky story of healing and connection, with Lilo teaching Stitch the true meaning of ‘Ohana’—family.

Sydney Agudong delivers a standout performance as Nani, Lilo’s elder sister and legal guardian. Her portrayal brings a more grounded and emotionally layered version of Nani to life, exploring her internal struggles, ambitions, and the sacrifices she makes to hold their fragile home together.

The film also reintroduces familiar extraterrestrial characters like Dr. Jumba Jookiba (played by Zach Galifianakis) and Agent Pleakley (played by Billy Magnussen), whose quirky chemistry adds humor and chaos to the story. A delightful surprise for fans comes in the form of Tia Carrere, who originally voiced Nani in the animated version. She returns in a new role as Mrs. Kekoa, a kind-hearted social worker keeping an eye on the Pelekai family.

Director Dean Fleischer Camp, known for Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, brings a fresh and grounded perspective to the remake. “It didn’t look like any other Disney movie at the time,” he explained, referencing the original’s unique art style and tone. “It’s kind of a broken fairytale—there are no princesses. It’s modern-day Hawai’i with real people just trying to find happiness.”

The new Lilo & Stitch has been praised for its emotional authenticity, stunning visuals, and faithful yet expanded take on the original story. The central relationship between Lilo and Stitch, and the strong bond between Lilo and Nani, have been called deeply moving and relatable, especially for audiences navigating themes of grief, family, and belonging.

With its release across Indian theatres in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, Lilo & Stitch has found a strong fanbase in India as well, continuing Disney’s trend of global inclusivity.