The breaking point for the Disney live-action adaptations may have passed a long time ago. While most have proven to be financial success for the Mouse House, many have felt like uninspired cash grabs, lacking innovation and compelling storytelling choices. That’s not to say there haven’t been standouts; Films like Cruella, have recontextualized their source material with surprising originality. But for every Cruella, there’s a Dumbo or Lion King, making it easy to see why anticipation for a Lilo & Stitch live-action adaptation was not just timid but completely nonexistent.
Enter Dean Fleischer Camp, whose 2021 Academy Award nominated, Marcel The Shell With Shoes On was not just one of the best films of the year, but an emotionally resonant story that thoughtfully explored loneliness, grief and the search for belonging. Knowing Camp would be helming Lilo & Stitch didn’t necessarily raise anticipation, but it did spark some curiosity. How would he incorporate his style to the source material, and what lessons cinephiles would take from it? One thing became crystal clear as the credits rolled on my screening.
In Dean Fleischer Camp I trust! Lilo & Stitch is one of the year’s biggest surprises. While not without its flaws, the animated film’s frenetic energy is intact, with just enough fresh touches to stand on its own. It beautifully captures the spirit of OHANA.
Written by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, Lilo & Stitch’s screenplay seamlessly pairs with Dean Fleischer Camp’s directing style. The script’s emphasis on empathy, emotional depth and the importance of Ohana elevate the film into the upper tier of Disney’s live-action remakes. By stripping away some of the familiar elements of the animated classic, the film is able to stand on its own, feel distinct, as it explores the evolving bond between Lilo and Stitch, and the heartfelt relationship between Lilo and Nani. The result is a more emotionally satisfying conclusion than its animated predecessor.
As with the animated film, Chris Sanders’ performance as Stitch is an utter delight. Channeling the same comedic and frenetic energy of the original, Sanders voice work serves is an vivid reminder as to why Stitch is one of Disney’s most beloved characters. Alongside Sanders, Maia Kealoha and Sydney Agudong are the film’s MVPs. Their bond gives the story its heart and soul, perfectly capturing the spirit of Ohana. Kealoha, in particular, delivers a star-making performance, one of those rare turns where you just know and with Kealoha, you know.
On the supporting end, the changes to Dr. Jumba and Pleakley’s “disguises” on earth allow Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen room to shine, with their comedic timing delivering some of the films funniest moments. Speaking of laughs, Amy Hill’s Tūtū’s steals a few scenes of her own, her small moments are genuinely hilarious.
As for Stitch and the rest of the United Galactic Federation, the VFX is surprisingly strong. Compared to recent Disney live-action adaptations, Lilo & Stitch is easily one of the best looking of the bunch. Dan Romer’s score hits on all the right emotional beats but it’s the iconic “Hawaiian Roller Coaster Ride” that emerges as the films true bopper.
To some, Lilo & Stitch may come off as tropey, with a few jokes from the animated film not fully landing in its live-action adaptation. There’s no denying that the film tries to cater to both children and adults, which occasionally results in tonal inconsistencies . While these moments are few and far between, they’ll likely give those already expecting to dislike the film little reason to change their minds.
Lilo & Stitch isn’t just a worthy adaptation, it’s a heartfelt, vibrant celebration of Ohana that’s poised to be the family event of the summer. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time, or revisiting, there’s no denying the Disney magic and charm is on full display.
