Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch roared into theaters on May 23, 2025, projected to gross $120–150 million domestically through Memorial Day weekend, delivering a vital hit for Disney after recent remake struggles. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, this vibrant reimagining of the 2002 animated classic has ignited excitement with its heartfelt story, standout performances, and a fresh take on the Hawaiian tale of a lonely girl and her mischievous alien “dog.” With a 76% Rotten Tomatoes score and sequel talks already underway, Lilo & Stitch is redefining Disney’s live-action legacy. Nuzpost explores the film’s blockbuster debut, its updates, and why it’s captivating audiences worldwide.
A Heartwarming Blockbuster Lands
Lilo & Stitch centers on Lilo (Maia Kealoha), a young Hawaiian girl who adopts Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders), a fugitive alien mistaken for a dog, unaware he’s a chaotic experiment chased by the United Galactic Federation. Raised by her sister Nani (Sydney Agudong) after their parents’ passing, Lilo finds “ohana” (family) with Stitch, facing social services and alien hunters like Jumba (Zach Galifianakis) and Pleakley (Billy Magnussen). Filmed in Hawaii, the movie stays true to the original’s themes of belonging while deepening Nani’s role as a caretaker.
With a $100 million budget, the film is on track for a $1 billion global haul, driven by Stitch’s massive fanbase—evidenced by 546 million Disney+ streaming hours and $2.6 billion in 2024 merchandise sales. Outpacing rivals like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning ($80 million opening), Lilo & Stitch marks Disney’s strongest live-action remake debut since The Lion King. Disney’s leadership is already eyeing sequels, with plans to expand the franchise’s reach.
Praise and Critique for a New Spin
The film has earned a solid 76% on Rotten Tomatoes, making it one of Disney’s best-received live-action remakes since Cruella (75% in 2021). Maia Kealoha’s “charming” performance as Lilo and the “adorable” CGI Stitch have won over audiences, with critics calling it a “broken but still good” family adventure. The Hawaiian setting and Nani’s expanded story add emotional weight, placing it among Disney’s top remakes. However, some reviews criticize the “spiritless CGI” and a “shrill” sci-fi tone, particularly the choice to recast Jumba as the main villain, sidelining Gantu and altering the custody subplot.
The script, penned by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, sharpens the original’s loose ends but tones down its quirky charm. While the focus on “ohana” resonates, Lilo’s imaginative spark takes a backseat to Nani’s perspective, a shift that has sparked debate among fans. Despite these critiques, the film’s vibrant energy and emotional core make it a crowd-pleaser.
Cultural Roots and Star Power
Filmed in Oahu, Lilo & Stitch celebrates Hawaiian culture through authentic casting and lush visuals, addressing the 2002 film’s outsider lens. Native Hawaiian newcomer Maia Kealoha shines as Lilo, while Sydney Agudong’s Nani delivers poignant depth. The cast, including Hannah Waddingham, Courtney B. Vance, and Billy Magnussen, adds star power, with Chris Sanders reprising his role as Stitch’s voice for continuity. The May 17 premiere at El Capitan Theatre showcased Kealoha and Vance, drawing massive crowds.
Disney’s marketing, with trailers rolling out since August 2024, tapped into Stitch’s merchandising empire—think plush toys and coffee mugs rivaling Mickey Mouse—to fuel hype. The PG-rated film, with a 108-minute runtime, is tailor-made for families, and its strong advance ticket sales reflect the franchise’s enduring appeal. Coming off a lackluster remake, this success could revive stalled projects like Tangled.
Box Office Boom and Future Plans
Currently in theaters, Lilo & Stitch is expected to dominate through June, with a Disney+ debut slated for late August 2025 and a digital release in late July. The film’s performance is a critical test for Disney’s live-action strategy, with early tracking suggesting it could surpass Mufasa: The Lion King. The franchise’s merchandising juggernaut, from clothing to collectibles, continues to drive revenue, positioning Lilo & Stitch as a cornerstone of Disney’s portfolio.
Sequel discussions are gaining steam, with Disney eyeing new stories to capitalize on Stitch’s global fanbase. The film’s ability to blend nostalgia with fresh storytelling has resonated, making it a beacon for Disney’s remake ambitions. As audiences pack theaters, Lilo & Stitch proves that the bond between a girl and her alien “dog” remains timeless.
Nuzpost will follow Lilo & Stitch’s box office journey and streaming updates.